Paralegals in Minnesota provide legal research and administrative support to lawyers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals provide administrative, research and analytical support to lawyers as they prepare for events that require legal counsel. To assist lawyers with events such as trials, court appearances and legal business transactions, paralegals may research legal judgments, client information and local legal guidelines to support a case. Paralegal candidates in Minnesota must complete paralegal training while obtaining an associate or bachelor's degree. With certification through a training program, paralegals in Minnesota are prepared to seek employment with a law firm.
Instructions
1. Select a paralegal program approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Visit the ABA website for a list of approved paralegal training programs in Minnesota. Paralegal training programs are offered at the associate and bachelor's degree levels. A Minnesota community college may provide an associate degree and a paralegal training certificate in one program. To gain admission into an associate-level paralegal program, students usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, although, in some cases, this requirement may be waived if you left school more than five years prior to your application date. Students also must take assessment exams in math and English to determine whether prerequisite coursework is required.
2. Complete the certification requirements of an approved paralegal training program. The Minnesota Paralegal Association reports that most associate degree programs offer certification coursework consisting of 15 to 30 credit hours of paralegal study. Inver Hills Community College, for example, offers an associate degree and certificate program that provides 30 credit hours of liberal arts education and 30 credit hours of paralegal training suitable for certification. Once you have completed all course requirements, you will be issued a paralegal professional certificate along with your associate degree.
3. Complete continuing legal education (CLE) courses or workshops to enhance your certification knowledge. Paralegals need to stay informed about changing guidelines, laws or practices in the legal profession. Access information on additional learning opportunities for paralegals by visiting the Minnesota Paralegal Association website.
4. Consider national certification. To improve you employment opportunities, pursue national certification through the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). National certification is obtained by passing a skills assessment examination offered through the NALA. This is not a requirement for employment as a paralegal in Minnesota, but passing a national certifying examination confirms your knowlege and skills as a paralegal and allows you to note your Certified Paralegal (CP) credentials after your name. For information about national certification, visit the NALA website.
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