Stop in the name of the law – and become a paralegal
You love the logic of the law, the court room drama, and investigating mysteries. You’ve decided to become a paralegal, or legal assistant. Paralegals help lawyers with legal work, but are not responsible for the client or outcome.
There are many ways to become a legal assistant: sufficient on the job training; a passing grade on a certification test (Certified Legal Assistant exam administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants); completion of an appropriate course of study; a combination of education and training.
If you decide to go the educational route, you can do so at various levels depending on your goals. If you want to enter the work force as soon as possible, consider an associate degree program. For more flexibility and greater job opportunities, enroll in a bachelor degree program or even a master’s. If you already have a bachelor degree, then consider a certificate program in legal studies. No matter what level of study you will learn the following skills:
- interviewing witnesses
- investigation techniques
- research: statistical, document and legal
- document preparation
- litigation preparation
Core courses include:
- Legal Research and Writing
- Civil Practice and Procedures
- Real Property Law
- Interviewing, Counseling, Negotiation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Individual Income Taxation
- Corporation, Partnership, Estate and Trust Taxation
- Constitutional Law 3
- Law Office Administration and Management
Click here for more information on available on-line paralegal programs..
