Paralegal Job Description & Career Outlook
A paralegal, or legal assistant, typically works in private law firms and performs many of the tasks of attorneys. Paralegals assist attorneys by preparing for hearings, trials, and meetings. A paralegal job description includes investigation of the facts of a case, collection of documents from a variety of sources, and legal case research. In a paralegal career, you prepare written reports and legal documents, draft pleadings and motions to be filed with the court, and assist attorneys during trials. Outside of courtroom preparation, they may prepare civil documents such as wills, contracts, mortgages, and separation agreements. In spite of all of these duties, they are prohibited from doing tasks that are considered “practicing law”. Visit the Paralegal Degree page to learn how to become a paralegal.
Paralegal Salary and Benefits
A paralegal salary often depends on education, training, years of experience, the location of the job, and law firm size. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median paralegal salary is ~$46,000 yearly. A paralegal career affords benefits such as bonuses, vacation, paid sick leave, health and life insurance, and reimbursement for participation in continuing legal education seminars. Read More +
Paralegal Career and Job Outlook
The paralegal job forecast projects a stunning 30% in the next decade. Demand for paralegals grows as the legal profession grows. Recent growth in areas like intellectual property law, healthcare law, elder issues, and environmental law contributes to the demand, and thus the increased need for paralegals. The best employment opportunities are for those who are experienced paralegals and those who have formal education and training. Earning a national paralegal certification can also help improve employment prospects and typically requires a paralegal degree from an accredited school. Request free information on how to become a paralegal so you can start you paralegal career.
Online Paralegal Degrees & Training from Accredited Schools
Virginia College
Popular Paralegal Degrees and Programs:
- Associate of Science - Paralegal Studies
- Bachelor of Science - Paralegal Studies
Everest University Online
Popular Paralegal Degrees and Programs:
- Associate's in Paralegal
- Bachelor's in Paralegal
Herzing University
Popular Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Public Safety (BSHSPS)
- Associate of Science in Legal Assisting/Paralegal (ASLAP)
- Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies (BSLS)
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJNM)
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security (BSCJHS)
- Associate of Science in Criminal Justice (ASCJ)
South University
Popular Paralegal Degrees and Programs:
- Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
The George Washington University
Popular Paralegal Degrees and Careers:
- Master of Professional Studies in Paralegal Studies
Carrington College™ California - Online
Popular Paralegal Degrees and Careers:
- Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
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