How to Become a Paralegal

How to Apply for Paralegal Training, What to Expect, and Why It’s a Great Career Choice

Paralegals play an essential role in the legal industry, providing crucial support to attorneys, law firms, corporations, and government agencies. As a paralegal, you’ll assist with legal research, prepare legal documents, and help manage client files. With the legal industry continuing to grow, the demand for skilled paralegals has never been higher. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a paralegal, including how to apply for paralegal programs, what to expect during training, how to pay for it, and why this career is a rewarding and stable choice.

What Does a Paralegal Do?

Paralegals are often the backbone of a law office, performing a variety of tasks to assist attorneys and ensure that legal cases are managed efficiently. Their duties can vary depending on the size of the law firm and the type of law practiced. Some common paralegal duties include:

• Legal Research: Paralegals conduct research on legal precedents, case law, statutes, and regulations to assist attorneys in building cases.
• Drafting Legal Documents: Paralegals help draft legal documents such as contracts, pleadings, motions, and discovery requests. They ensure these documents are accurate and comply with legal standards.
• Case Management: Paralegals help organize case files, track deadlines, and ensure that documents are filed with the appropriate courts or agencies on time.
• Client Communication: Paralegals often serve as the point of contact between clients and the legal team, scheduling meetings, answering questions, and updating clients on case progress.
• Trial Preparation: Paralegals assist with preparing for trials by organizing evidence, managing exhibits, and sometimes even attending court hearings with the attorney to take notes or assist in presenting the case.
• Administrative Support: Paralegals may also handle administrative tasks, including managing office files, billing clients, and maintaining records.

Step 1: Research Paralegal Training Programs

Before becoming a paralegal, you’ll need to complete specialized training. While some people enter the field with just a high school diploma or experience, most paralegals hold a degree or certificate in paralegal studies. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a paralegal training program:

• Accreditation: Ensure that the program you choose is accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association (ABA). ABA-accredited programs meet high standards and are often preferred by employers.
• Program Type: Paralegal programs can range from certificates to associate’s or bachelor’s degrees. Certificate programs typically take less time to complete (around 6 months to 1 year), while degree programs may take 2 to 4 years to finish. Consider your career goals and choose a program that suits your needs.
• Specializations: Some paralegal programs offer specialized tracks in areas like corporate law, criminal law, family law, or intellectual property law. If you have a specific area of interest, look for a program that offers relevant specializations.
• Curriculum: A strong paralegal program should provide a combination of legal theory, practical skills, and hands-on experience. You should expect to learn topics such as legal research, civil and criminal procedure, contract law, ethics, and legal writing.
• Job Placement Services: Look for a program that offers job placement assistance or internship opportunities. Internships provide valuable real-world experience and often lead to full-time employment opportunities after graduation.

Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements

To be eligible for paralegal programs, you will need to meet certain basic requirements. These generally include the following:

• Education: Most paralegal programs require at least a high school diploma or GED. If you are enrolling in a degree program, you may need to have some college credits or a completed associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
• Experience: While many paralegal programs do not require prior legal experience, some may prefer applicants with previous experience in administrative work, law offices, or legal environments. If you have a background in law or office management, it may help boost your application.
• Writing Skills: As a paralegal, you will need strong writing and communication skills. You’ll be drafting legal documents and communicating with clients and attorneys, so being able to express yourself clearly and professionally is essential.
• Attention to Detail: Paralegals need to have excellent organizational and research skills, as well as the ability to handle sensitive information and ensure accuracy in legal documents.

Step 3: Apply to Paralegal Programs

Once you’ve researched various programs and determined that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply to the paralegal training program of your choice. The application process typically includes the following steps:

• Submit an Application: Fill out the program’s application form, which may be available online or at the school. You will typically be asked to provide your personal information, educational background, and any relevant work experience.
• Provide Transcripts: You may need to submit high school transcripts (or college transcripts if you’ve completed any higher education). Some programs may require proof of GPA or specific academic performance in prior coursework.
• Personal Statement: Many paralegal programs require a personal statement or letter of intent that explains your reasons for pursuing a career as a paralegal, your goals, and why you believe you’re a good candidate for the program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or professionals who can speak to your work ethic and character.

Step 4: Complete Paralegal Training

Once accepted into a paralegal training program, you will begin your studies. Paralegal programs combine classroom education with practical skills to prepare you for the legal workplace. Here’s what you can expect during your training:

Classroom Instruction

During your paralegal training, you will take courses in a variety of legal topics, including:

• Legal Research: You will learn how to conduct thorough and efficient legal research using both traditional resources (such as law libraries) and electronic databases.
• Legal Writing: As a paralegal, you will write legal briefs, motions, contracts, and other documents. You will learn proper legal writing formats and how to communicate clearly and persuasively.
• Litigation and Trial Procedures: You’ll study civil and criminal litigation procedures, including the process of filing lawsuits, discovery, and preparing for trial.
• Ethics and Professional Responsibility: Paralegals must adhere to high ethical standards. Your program will cover professional conduct, confidentiality, and the ethical obligations of paralegals and attorneys.
• Specialized Areas of Law: Many programs offer courses in specialized areas of law such as family law, real estate law, intellectual property, immigration law, and corporate law.

Hands-on Training

Many paralegal programs offer practical training or internship opportunities. During this portion of your education, you will:

• Gain Real-World Experience: Some programs offer internships or externships at law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments. These placements give you a chance to apply the knowledge you’ve gained in the classroom to real-world legal situations.
• Develop Professional Skills: During your hands-on training, you’ll work alongside experienced paralegals and attorneys, gaining valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of a paralegal. You may assist with research, drafting documents, and interacting with clients.

Step 5: Obtain Paralegal Certification (Optional)

While certification is not always required to work as a paralegal, it can enhance your job prospects and help you stand out in a competitive job market. There are several nationally recognized paralegal certifications available:

• National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA): NALA offers the Certified Paralegal (CP) credential, which is highly regarded in the industry. To earn this certification, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of legal principles and procedures.
• National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA): NFPA offers the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE), which allows experienced paralegals to earn the PACE Registered Paralegal (RP) credential.
• American Alliance of Paralegals (AAPI): The AAPI offers the American Alliance Certified Paralegal (AACP) designation, which can demonstrate your advanced skills in the field.

How to Pay for Paralegal Training

The cost of paralegal education can vary depending on the program and institution. Here are a few ways to finance your paralegal education:

• Financial Aid: Many paralegal programs offer financial aid, including federal grants, scholarships, and student loans. You can apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Employer Sponsorship: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs or scholarships for employees who wish to pursue paralegal education. If you’re already working in a legal setting, ask your employer about these opportunities.
• Scholarships: There are numerous scholarships available for aspiring paralegals, especially for those who demonstrate financial need or academic excellence. Check with professional organizations like NALA or NFPA for scholarship opportunities.
• Veterans Benefits: If you are a veteran, you may be eligible to use your GI Bill benefits to cover the cost of paralegal education.

Why Becoming a Paralegal is a Great Career

There are many reasons why becoming a paralegal is a great career choice:

• Job Stability: The demand for paralegals is expected to grow, especially as law firms and businesses seek to cut costs while maintaining legal services. Paralegals are an essential part of the legal system, providing support that is critical to the efficient operation of law offices.
• Competitive Salary: Paralegals earn competitive salaries. The median annual salary for a paralegal is around $56,000, but this can vary depending on location, experience, and the area of law in which you specialize.
• Career Advancement: There are many opportunities for career growth. With experience, you can move into more specialized roles such as litigation support, contract management, or corporate law. You can also pursue certification to increase your earning potential and job opportunities.
• Meaningful Work: As a paralegal, you’ll be making a real difference by helping clients navigate the legal system and ensuring that justice is served. Whether you work for a law firm, a government agency, or a corporate legal department, your work will have a tangible impact on people’s lives.
• Diverse Opportunities: Paralegals can work in a wide range of legal fields, from criminal defense and family law to corporate law and intellectual property. This gives you the flexibility to specialize in an area that interests you.

Becoming a paralegal offers the opportunity to work in an intellectually stimulating and rewarding career within the legal field. With the right training and experience, you can have a fulfilling career that allows you to contribute to justice and support attorneys in the legal process. Whether you’re interested in criminal law, corporate law, or another area of law, a career as a paralegal offers job stability, competitive pay, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in your community.