subject: A Quick Guide To Paralegal Jobs [print this page] One of the greatest things about paralegal jobs is that you can work in so many different settings. Judges and attorneys use people with paralegal training to perform basic tasks for them. Depending on the area of law that your firm works, you may end up providing research on a variety of different riveting topics.
Finding a job in this area is pretty much the same as any other job search. You can start by looking in the classifieds. Check the help wanted section under the category "legal jobs". If any local law professionals are looking for assistance, you are in luck.
If you prefer a more proactive approach to job hunting, then you should send a few resumes to local law agencies. Make sure that your resume reflects your experience in the field and your academic training. It is always a good idea to include a cover letter that explains why you are looking for a position in this field and when you will be in contact. Remember to spell check your cover letter. No employer, especially an attorney, wants to hire an assistant that cannot spell.
Another great way to find jobs in this area is to call listings in the phone book. Even if the specific company is not hiring, chances are they know someone who is. Many local law agencies are interconnected in some way and have ties to others within the business. Take advantage of this by trying to get your foot in the door. With any luck, you will stumble upon a job opening.
Before even considering this as a career path, you should make sure you are adequately qualified. In general, a professional paralegal should have a two-year degree minimum. Another way to go about becoming certified is to get a 4-year degree and then take a training course from a community college. It looks great to employers to see that you not only did your training, but you got a 4 year degree.
It is also important that you know the boundaries of your job. Although you are involved in many important aspects of legal cases, you are not an attorney. This means that you are not part of the Bar Association. Giving legal advice is not part of your job and you will not be able to go to court to plead a case before the judge.
You have a few options when it comes to paralegal jobs. Your first option is to become a Certified Legal Assistant. Your second option is to become a Registered Paralegal. You can generally find courses that offer these certifications at a local university.
