An Effective Paralegal Resume Can Help Jump-Start Your Legal Career

An Effective Paralegal Resume Can Help Jump-Start Your Legal Career

There are very fields that are as rewarding as Law. Whether you are an interested in working for a Prosecutor, Defense Counsel, Corporate Lawyer, Litigator, or Transactional Attorney, all of these fields have something in common, they all require a Paralegal to support them. Unlike an attorney who must pass the State Bar of the state they would like to practice law in, no formal education is required to become an entry-level paralegal other than dedication, attention-to-detail, and thick skinvery thick skin. But, for those who can handle working in a deadline-driven, intense environment, a career as a paralegal may be the treasure at the end of the rainbow. It is crucial that your paralegal resume shines. Why? Because unlike other fields, a resume for the Legal field serves an additional purpose - it is more of your writing sample. Do you understand the basics of grammar? Are you concise? Is your writing streamlined, yet informative?

These few tips will help you in achieving a successful career as a Paralegal:

Spell-check and Grammar Check: It always pains me to include this tip, because inevitably, someone will point out a grammar or spelling mistake in my writing. But, since I'm no longer a practicing attorney, I get a pass. With that said, PLEASE spell-check and grammar check your resume and cover letter. You have to realize, the documents you are preparing and revising for your attorney will be submitted to courts, tribunals, opposing counsel, etc. And, although the document will probably have the attorney's name it, you will prepare/revise it. Almost every attorney I ever met has one thing in commonEGO. No attorney wants to look sloppy in front of his or her peers. Therefore, make sure your resume and cover letter are meticulous, it will be a first great impression!

Show Interest: How can you show an attorney you are interested in a career as a paralegal if you have no experience? Easy, take courses. There are several online community college courses that are inexpensive and can be taken at your own pace. I understand that life moves pretty quick, and while it may be nearly impossible for you to find the time, you have to find the time. You can take the courses online on the weekend at your own convenience. Let me state this another way: Did you know that a certified paralegal for a top law firm can make 6 figures a year. Now can you find the time?

Be Honest: Every lawyer spent 3 years in law school and passed the bar exam no small feat. Attorneys are programmed to evaluate and assess facts and use them to draw conclusions. And, presumably they will check your references and employment history. Therefore, don't lie. Nobody starts at the top. Even the most successful paralegals started working for a small operation. If necessary, hire a resume service that focuses in paralegal resumes to assist you in the process.

Good Luck!

An Effective Paralegal Resume Can Help Jump-Start Your Legal Career

By: Matthew Sonn

POST COMMENT

James Tenney, Attorney Offers Expert Legal Advice How To Become A Paralegal 5 Reasons To Seek Legal Training From Online Cpd Law Courses Eliminate Credit Card Debt Legally - Say Goodbye to your debts for good Build Lasting Success With Pre-paid Legal How to Eliminate Credit Card Debt Legally - Keep the Debt Collectors Away Eliminate Credit Card Debt Legally - Steps To Get You Out of Debt For Good Mark Anesh Offers Legal Advice In Litigation Cases Prepaid Legal: Is It Time For You To Use A Legal Plan And Identity Theft Protection? How to find quality candidates for legal jobs The Legal Points Related To The Changes In Equity Interest Of Investors In Foreign Investment Enterp Mark Anesh Offers Legal Advice in Litigation Cases Analysis And Suggestions On Legal Procedures For Foreign Capital M&a