What is a Paralegal
If a person wants to make great money in a respected profession without amassing a fortune in student loan debt, the paralegal field is an excellent option. For those who are curious what is a paralegal, it is a challenging, exciting profession that many people find suits their needs professionally without the added responsibilities and extensive work hours that are expected from lawyers.
What is a paralegal expected to do?
A paralegal is part of a law firm or works for an individual attorney. A paralegal is considered a semi-professional position, so there is quite a bit of training and expertise involved. An associate’s degree or four-year college degree is a plus, but a paralegal does not need a law degree. A paralegal must know how to research information on a case and compile that information for attorneys. Paralegals must also be able to work well with people. Many paralegals are given the responsibility of representing an attorney or firm and must be able to work well with clients and the public on behalf of the attorneys. Paralegals must have a cordial, businesslike demeanor. They must also excel in written and verbal communication, as assisting in writing up briefs for the attorneys and sending letters to clients is part of the job.
What is a paralegal expected to know to excel in the field?
As previously mentioned, a paralegal must possess superior research and writing skills. Part of having these skills requires a thorough knowledge of the computer. Much of what a paralegal does involves computer work, especially word processing. Complete mastery of word processing programs such as Microsoft Word is an absolute requirement. Paralegal duties also include online research, so a working knowledge of how to perform legal research over the Internet is a requirement of the job. Taking computer classes is a good idea for anyone seeking a career as a paralegal. There is always a learning curve in any new job, but having the appropriate computer training will allow a paralegal to focus on the other aspects of the field instead of having to catch up on computer skills.
What is a paralegal expected to have in training? Many paralegals get on the job experience through college internships. An internship is an excellent way for a new paralegal to get their foot in the door at a reputable law firm. Since paralegals are well compensated financially, many firms prefer to hire candidates that have some on the job training through internships; as in any professional field, the more education and training, the better. The legal field includes many specialty areas. A person who has a background in the medical industry or entertainment industry has an even better chance of switching to a paralegal career.
What is a paralegal certification and is certification necessary? It is not mandatory for a paralegal to be a member of professional associations or be certified by a bar association. However, as in any profession, membership in professional associations and any professional certification acquired is an additional asset when climbing the career ladder in the paralegal profession. Anyone looking for more information on professional certification should contact organizations such as The American Association For Paralegal Education or the local state bar association.
What is a paralegal expected to earn in salary? A skilled paralegal with the necessary education and training can expect a starting salary of around $44,000 per year, depending on location. Salaries go up as a paralegal gains expertise and experience. It’s a profession that’s high in demand in a tight job market and offers one of the highest starting salaries with a two or four year degree.
