Paralegal How to Get Certified
In today's economy everyone is looking for a way to get the
advantage over other job seekers, looking for a career that is
almost recession proof. Fortunately, there is one profession
that is never going to fade away, and that is lawyers. While the
though of going to school and becoming a lawyer may not thrill
you, becoming a paralegal might.
A paralegal does work that is delegated to them by a lawyer that
they are working with. They can do some of the same tasks that a
lawyer can do, but may not have time for. They cannot however,
present a case in court or give any legal advice of any type.
What paralegals are able to do is, to help the lawyer prepare
for trials, hearings, closings and meetings.
They help by investigating any facts that are pertinent to a
case and making sure that the lawyer has any information that is
needed as a case is prepared. This type of work includes
gathering information regarding laws, judgments or other such
materials that the lawyer might need to do try a case
effectively. They make sure that the lawyer has every bit of
information with in hands reach.
Paralegal education is generally the completion of an associates
degree from either a local school or an online paralegal course.
While most paralegal education will stop after the associates
degree is accomplished, there are some institutions that offer a
bachelors and even a masters degree in this field.
If you are in the process of deciding which course to take to
become a paralegal, it is wise to pick a program that is
endorsed by the American Bar Association (ABA). The ABA endorses
approximately 250 of the more than 600 programs that exist to
train people in the paralegal profession.
Many programs have internships available; it would be wise to
take advantage of this program. This will allow you to get a
hands on feel for the work that a paralegal does along side a
lawyer. Look, too for a program that offers job placement, this
shows that they believe in their graduates and stand behind
their knowledge.
After the paralegal studies are completed and you have your
paralegal certificate, it would be a good idea to pursue
certification from the National Association of Legal Assistants.
Most employers will not require this; it will make you stand out
from other applicants. The Association has a set of standards
that have been established for the 2-day course that tells
potential employers that you are indeed a professional.
As with any profession that you are considering, it is important
to do extensive research before starting the course of study to
become a paralegal. Talk to people in the position and ask lots
of questions. However, if you choose this path for yourself, you
have the chance to accomplish two things. One, you will have a
positon that will always be in demand and you will be able to
put your knowledge of the law to use helping people. Good luck.