Paralegal Questions?
I have always been interested in research, writing, and law. There are no paralegals in my area, and also no programs(except online certifications, one of which is Blackstone Career Institute). I have an A.A already and would like to get my B.A, is there any “general” degrees maybe a liberal arts degree I could get to help instead of certificate? Can you tell me more about the profession, the hours, and everything? Thanks, God bless!
3 Responses to “Paralegal Questions?”
Comment from renaissance man
Time April 30, 2010 at 11:10 am
If you are ready to go for your B.A. I recommend Kaplan university online. They have a great paralegal program.
They are very well accredited. They also different programs.
They are a full fledged unversity with campus and all.
You can earn any degree you want. But be ready to study.
These people are serious when it comes to learning.
Comment from VicSEO
Time April 30, 2010 at 12:06 pm
The opportunities for a paralegal really depends on the specialty. The most in demand paralegals are those in the litigation field; followed by corporate paralegals who are responsible for maintaining corporate records, articles of incorporation, etc. While the “least” markeable [but the "highest" paid] paralegals are in the field of intellectual property [i.e., patents, trademarks] and immigration law. In conclusion, choose your paralegal courses accordingly, with emphasis on litigation preparation [discovery], docketing/calendaring of incoming pleadings [calendaring] and trial preparation [creating Exhibit tabs, Bajii jury instructions, etc.]. The “pro” side of a litigation paralegal is often “unlimited” overtime which can amount to a high salary range of $65,000 to $75,000 per year, while the “downside,” being constantly pressured to meet a monthly client billable quota. And failing to meet that quota, often results in the paralegal’s overnight dismissal. It’s not a pretty picture. I just want to lay out what really happens in the real world of litigators and their relationship with subordinate paralegals.
Good luck!
Comment from jannsody
Time April 30, 2010 at 10:45 am
The only information that I was told awhile ago was that paralegals generally need a bachelor’s degree in ‘something’. I’m sure a certificate program (accredited by the ABA/american bar association) in addition to that will add to one’s level of competency and marketability. Please stay away from those online schools such as penn foster and stratford career as they are not really seen as reputable to employers.
For general career info: http://www.bls.gov/oco and type into search ‘paralegal’.