Introduction to Becoming a Paralegal
Some people love the limelight. Others prefer to stay backstage. As a paralegal student, you've chosen to make your impact behind the scenes: collecting the data, comparing the cases, and picking through legislation with a fine tooth comb. The documents you create and the case profiles you establish are essential pieces of our nation's legal system.
The Day-to-Day Work of a Paralegal
When building a support team of professionals, attorneys often hire multiple paralegals. Much as nurses assist surgeons, paralegals assist attorneys, communicating between attorneys, clients, and outside parties. Paralegals provide a wide variety of legal services and perform many of the same tasks as attorneys, making them a powerful asset to lawyers and legal offices.
Are Paralegal Studies Right For You?
Do you desire to help others do their best? Do you enjoy researching, filing, reading, and writing? Find out if you possess the ideal characteristics, skills, work preferences, and academic interests of a paralegal.
Interview with Tracy Haselip, a Paralegal
Tracy Haselip is a paralegal working in Lewiston, Idaho. Here she described her experiences working in the field of law, as a paralegal primarily concerned with bankcruptcy cases. Read about her experiences and advice here.
Paralegal Studies Degrees
Paralegal degree programs aim to provide students with core legal knowledge, and to help them develop critical thinking, communication, organization, and research skills. Many community colleges, four-year colleges, universities, business schools, and law schools offer associate's degrees in paralegal studies; some colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees; and few offer master's degrees.
Paralegal Certification
Certification can be a great way to advance your career as a paralegal, once you have graduated with a degree. It's not a requirement, but it is highly recommended. Here is an introduction to the organizations that offer certification, tips to ace the exams, and associations that could be of use to you in your professional life.