subject: Exploring The Various Aspects Of Paralegal Training [print this page] The term paralegal refers to someone who assists the lawyer. The actual duties the person handles can vary depending on the size of the firm and what type of cases they handle. Most paralegals help the lawyer with preparing cases and drafting statements. Research is usually a huge part of their day and some of them also write reports and help the lawyer decide what type of action is best. Some paralegals are happy with their career while others use it as a stepping stone and eventually complete law school themselves. There are several things a person should know about paralegal training.
Technically a person can work as a paralegal without having any type of formal education. The problem is that individuals who do not have any sort of education find that not only is it difficult to find a job, but even more difficult to get promotions or raises. If a person really thinks that this is a good career option for them, they should plan on investing a little into their education. It will pay off sooner than they think.
There are several different types of programs that a person can chose from. Some of the program are short and give the student basic skills. Others are longer and more detailed.
The shorter programs usually result in the student getting a certificate. This is often good enough for the person to get a job working at a smaller law firm. The certificate program generally lasts anywhere from nine months to 18 months. Many of these abbreviated courses are offered online or at community colleges.
The longer programs result in a college degree. Many large law firms and corporations will not hire a person who has not completed one of these programs. Individuals can choose from a bachelor's degree program or an associate's degree. Both of these are going to require some general education classes as well as the course classes.
Another option that someone in this field might want to keep in mind is that they can pad their income by teaching. This is especially a good option is the person has decided that they no longer want to work full time but would like to make some additional income. The best places to find teaching opportunities are at the local community colleges. In order to teach, most colleges require that the individual at least have a bachelor's degree.
After completing Paralegal training, working as a paralegal can be both fascinating and fulfilling. There are many job opportunities. Many people start out in this career with nothing more than a certificate and then find that they like it so much that they opt to further their education.
