Start Your New Career With A Paralegal Associate Degree

Article Written By: Cynthia Fretwell

Getting a paralegal associate degree involves finding the right school. The field is one of the fastest growing in employment until the year 2018. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics it will grow by 28 percent. Private law firms are the largest employers but there are many other possible employers. Estate planning firms, insurance companies, banks, and corporations are just some of the places also looking for graduates in this field.

Legal assistants or paralegals work under the supervision of a licensed attorney. They do the required research for cases, file briefs, construct legal documents, and interview clients. Under the law they are not able to sign legal documents, act as legal representative in court or give legal advice. Since they are not an attorney they are not covered by attorney/client privilege either.

To begin a career in this field, a certificate of legal studies program can be completed. There are also bachelors and associates degree programs. It is easier to get employment through one of these programs than a certificate program unless the person already has a bachelors in another field. Direct hires outside of the field are possible but not usual.

The various legal education programs can be difficult to choose from. The factors to be considered are time, location and expense, to name a few. On top of that a quality program will be wanted. The American Bar Association has a list of approved programs but this does not mean that the ones that are not on the list are not good programs. Getting ABA approval is voluntary.

Receiving a certificate for completing a program is not the same as being certified. There are national agencies that offer certification testing. Often employers will ask for a certified legal assistant. This gives them the comfort of knowing that the person they hire is ready to do the job with minimal training. Those looking to freelance their services will have an advantage by getting certified.

To become certified, an exam will have to be successfully completed. There is the CLA, Certified Legal Assistant exam, administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants. There is also the PACE exam administered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations. Each exam has different requirements regarding who is able to take it. They have websites that go over expectations and eligibility.

The starting salary for this profession is about $29,000 per year. That being said, the number can vary greatly. Many things are taken into consideration. Background, expertise, type of training, and geographic location are all contributors. The salary can vary greatly when starting in a large city versus a small city. Top earners can make more than $75,000 a year.

Getting a Paralegal Associate Degree can lead to a well respected profession, with a great income in just two years. The field is growing quickly and is expected to continue to for several years. Earning a certification after obtaining the degree appears to be the fast track to employment and demonstrates the skills necessary to get started right away. Decide if school will be done online or on campus. Also take the time to look into possible financial aid.

About the Author

A paralegal degree is great preparation for a career as a legal professional. Your paralegal associates degree permits you to be employed by a law firm or to set up your own business.

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