Alaska Paralegal Schools

Opportunities in the paralegal field are rising across the United States and its territories, and Alaska paralegal schools are ready to meet demand. New jobs in Alaska have increased interest in the area, and the need for legal professionals is growing.

Profiles of Well Known Schools

University of Alaska, Anchorage: The Justice Center at the University of Alaska, Anchorage offers an American Bar Association approved Paralegal Studies Certificate, which can also be used to contribute towards the completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. Students are required to complete an internship within an agency or law firm that already has an existing relationship with the UAA Justice Center. Foundation courses for paralegal students include Introduction to Law and Paralegal Studies while upper level courses cover legal writing, litigation and legal research.

University of Alaska, Fairbanks: An American Bar Association approved Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies is offered by the University of Alaska, Fairbanks for students that wish to pursue a career as a paralegal or legal assistant. The AAS is a 61 hour degree that requires students to complete three hours through an internship with a law firm or legal office. Introductory courses include Introduction to Law and Introduction to Paralegal Skills while advanced courses include Paralegal Ethics, Advanced Legal Writing and Criminal Law for Paralegals. The Paralegal Studies Program is part of UAF’s Community and Technical College where students can pursue a variety of professional development degrees and certificates.

How to Become a Paralegal in Alaska

There are many training opportunities available in Alaska for those interested in the paralegal field. The state’s unique location and demographics result in many paralegal needs that are different from those in the lower United States.

Even so, obtaining a paralegal degree is much the same, as are the requirements that must be met by the successful paralegal. There are a range of online and on-campus paralegal programs available in Alaska, all of which will provide a prospective paralegal with the education needed to advance in the state’s legal market.

Paralegal Schools in Alaska

Many offerings in Alaska are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), which is the body responsible for monitoring practices in the legal profession.

ABA-approved paralegal programs in Alaska can be found at the University of Alaska in Fairbanks, and the University of Alaska, Anchorage branch. The program in Fairbanks grants successful attendees a two-year Associates Degree, while the Anchorage branch offers a four-year degree program.

Due to geographic constraints and other obstacles in Alaska, many prospective students elect to take paralegal classes online. Available online paralegal degree programs include the Paralegal Certificate program at Boston University and a Bachelor’s in Paralegal at Everest University Online.

Top Law Firms for Paralegal Graduates in Alaska

Jermain Dunnagan & Owens, P.C., based in Anchorage, is one of the most well known law firms in Alaska thanks to its success in headline cases in multiple practice areas. Jermain Dunnagan is active in the community and represents local clients as well as multinational companies. The firm routinely seeks to add paralegals and other support staff to its legal team. Perkins Coie is regularly recognized by Chambers & Partners as a national leader in law, with noted presence in ten markets including Alaska. Its Anchorage office serves clients in practice areas including energy, environmental and natural resources, labor and employment, and many others. Its focus on being a diverse and equitable workplace offering opportunities to staff has led to its being named among the 100 Best Companies to Work For by Fortune magazine, making it an excellent firm for recent paralegal graduates to start a career. Patton Boggs is also highly ranked by Chambers & Partners, receiving a #2 ranking in Litigation: General Commercial (Alaska). Its Anchorage practice specializes in complex litigation of all types, and the firm is consistently hiring for committed paralegals looking to work in a team environment.

Alaska Paralegal Salary and Job Outlook

Alaska has one of the highest average salaries for those who seek a career in the paralegal profession at around $50,000 per year. Entry-level salaries are lower, but high demand for qualified paralegals in the state increases the likelihood that the average is stable.

Whether prospective paralegals choose to pursue a degree on campus or online, the expanding legal market in Alaska ensures opportunities for career-minded graduates.

Online and Alaska Paralegal Schools

Page Edited by Charles Sipe.