Indiana Paralegal Schools

There are many campus-based and online paralegal degree programs in Indiana paralegal schools that allow prospective students to obtain certification or a degree in paralegal or legal studies. Paralegals provide invaluable services to law firms; they support attorneys in several ways. A typical day for a paralegal might include researching records at the courthouse, analyzing evidence for an upcoming case, drafting a contract for a client, and preparing correspondence. Although paralegals work under the supervision of attorneys, and they do much of the legal support work, they cannot give legal advice nor present cases in court.

Paralegal Schools in Indiana

To be more competitive in the job market, it is a good idea to obtain a degree in paralegal or legal studies. There are many paralegal degree programs that are offered online in Indiana. Some offer an associate’s degree in paralegal (Virginia College, Stonecliffe College Online, and Westwood College). Some offer an associate’s and a bachelor’s degree (Kaplan University – School of Legal Studies, Hodges University, and Keiser University). Some programs offer a certificate program in addition to their associate’s and bachelor’s degrees (Minnesota School of Business and Post University. George Washington University offers an online Master’s degree (Master of Professional Studies in Paralegal Studies).

There are several campus-based paralegal degree programs in Indiana as well. Brown Mackie College offers an associate’s, bachelor’s, and certificate program, and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. International Business College offers an associate’s, and bachelor’s degree, and is also accredited by ACICS. Calumet College of St. Joseph offers an associate’s, bachelor’s, and post-baccalaureate certificate. There are currently two ABA approved programs; Ball State University and Vincennes University both offer associate’s degrees.

Indiana Paralegal Education and Certification Requirements

Although the state of Indiana does not, at this time, have any specific requirements for paralegals, the paralegal associations have developed suggested qualifications for paralegals, including: PACE or CLA/CP certification, a bachelor’s degree in paralegal plus 1 year of work experience, a general bachelor’s degree and 2 years of work experience, an associate’s degree in paralegal and 3 years of work experience, a general associate’s degree and four years of work experience, a paralegal certificate and five years of work experience, or a high school diploma and six years of work experience. You might also find helpful information through the organizations for paralegals in Indiana, the Indiana Legal Assistants, the Indiana Paralegal Association, the Michiana Paralegal Association, and the Northeast Indiana Paralegal Association.

Indiana Paralegal Salary and Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected 28% growth in the profession in the decade of 2008-2018, so becoming a paralegal is an excellent career option. The middle 50% of paralegals in Indiana earn between $40,995 and $53,461 annually. This figure varies depending on geographic location and type of position.

Online and Indiana Paralegal Schools