Paralegals assist lawyers with many legal responsibilities.
A paralegal, also sometimes called a legal assistant, performs responsibilities for legal offices. They may conduct research, gather facts for a case, organize information and draft reports, pleadings and motions. Paralegals often carry out the same duties as lawyers, with the exception of arguing cases and providing legal advice. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the job market for paralegals is expected to grow at a healthy rate. To become a paralegal, first acquire the necessary education, then pass the CLA/CP (certified legal assistant/certified paralegal) exam.
Instructions
1. Graduate from a paralegal education program that has been approved by the American Bar Association. Or you may choose a bachelor's degree or associate degree program in legal assistant studies. Another possible education path is to obtain a graduate certification in the field.
2. Qualify for certification if you have a degree in a separate field by obtaining one year's professional experience as a paralegal. Or you could substitute the one year's experience for a total of 15 semester hours of courses in paralegal studies.
3. Learn the paralegal trade through on-the-job training if lengthy education requirements do not appeal to you. According to the National Association of Legal Assistants, with a high school diploma, seven years of on-the-job training and 20 credit hours of legal studies, you could also qualify to take the exam for certification.
4. Fill out an application form to take the CLA/CP examination required for certification. The exam is offered three times per year. Send in the requested fee with your application. Pass the exam to earn your designation as a certified paralegal.
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