Legal Assistants And Paralegals - The Future Is Bright
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Legal Assistants and Paralegals: A Bright Future Awaits
Overview
Becoming a legal assistant or paralegal is often achieved through a community college program leading to an associate's degree. Those who already possess a college degree might opt for a certification program in paralegal studies.
Educational Pathways
Many in this profession hold an associate degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor's degree with a paralegal certificate. While fewer schools offer bachelor's or master's degrees in paralegal studies, some employers provide on-the-job training for college graduates with no legal experience or promote experienced legal secretaries. Others may employ individuals with expertise in fields beneficial to law firms, such as tax preparation or health administration.
Program Options and Accreditation
With over 250 American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal programs and approximately 1,000 educational institutions offering formal training, the field is well-represented. While ABA approval is not mandatory, it can boost employment prospects due to the credibility it offers.
Admission requirements vary, ranging from a few college credits to a full bachelor's degree, or even just a successful personal interview. Programs differ in length, from short certificate courses for those with existing degrees to longer associate and bachelor degree programs that combine paralegal training with other academic subjects.
Quality programs often include job placement services and offer internships, providing practical experience in real-world settings such as law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments. These opportunities can lead to job offers following graduation.
Certification and Skills
While certification isn't strictly necessary, it can enhance job prospects. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers certification for those meeting specific criteria, including a two-day examination. Successful candidates may use the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) designation, with advanced certification available for specialization.
The Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam offers recognition to legal assistants with a bachelor's degree and at least two years of experience, allowing them to use the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation.
Paralegals must possess strong research, documentation, and presentation skills, alongside a thorough understanding of legal terminology. Staying updated on legal developments is crucial, often achieved through continuing education seminars. Adherence to ethical standards set by organizations such as NALA is essential due to regular public interaction.
Employment Outlook and Compensation
As of 2004, approximately 224,000 paralegals and legal assistants were employed, primarily by private law firms, with others working in corporate legal departments and government agencies like the U.S. Department of Justice and the Social Security Administration. Some opt to work independently, offering freelance services.
The employment of paralegals is expected to grow much faster than average, as employers seek to reduce costs by assigning tasks traditionally handled by lawyers to paralegals.
Salaries vary significantly based on factors such as education, experience, employer type, and location. Generally, those employed by large firms or in major metropolitan areas earn more. In addition to salaries, bonuses are common, with the average salary around $39,000 in mid-2004.
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