Overview of Field
Paralegal programs are designed to help student learn ways to assist lawyers. Students in these programs learn to investigate cases and conduct research. They are also taught to write reports that allow the lawyers to prepare cases. Keeping track of the case documents and assisting the attorney in other important tasks are also taught in the paralegal program. Also, these training programs help students to deal with clients and others related to the field of law. Paralegal are also known as legal assistants as they help the lawyers in almost all important tasks.
Types of Paralegal Programs
Paralegal programs include certificate as well as degree programs. Certificate programs in Paralegal are meant for the students who already have a bachelor’s degree in this discipline. Aspiring paralegals can get into Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) certification programs. An associate’s degree in paralegal spans over 2 years. This program provides students with the basic know-how of this field. A bachelor’s degree in Paralegal takes 3-4 years to complete. Some of the courses included in Paralegal programs are business organizational law, legal research, civil litigation, family law and legal ethics.
Admissions Criteria
Students need to have a high school diploma or GED to enroll in an associates or bachelor’s degree programs in paralegal studies. Getting into a certification program in paralegal requires students to have a bachelor’s degree. Other requirements to enroll in different Paralegal programs vary from school to school.
Career Prospects
Students can get a number of jobs once they complete their education in this field. They can work in banking legal departments, private law firms, accountancy firms as well as government departments. Paralegals can earn up to an impressive $71,500 per year.