New Hampshire Paralegal Schools

New Hampshire paralegal schools can offer prospective paralegal students the tools they need to enter one of the most rapidly expanding sectors of the legal field. High-quality legal administration is a growing asset to both attorneys and law firms who seek to cut costs by increasing efficiency.

Profiles of Well Known Schools

New Hampshire Technical Institute: The New Hampshire Technical Institute, Concord’s Community College, has the only American Bar Association approved paralegal program in the state; an Associate in Applied Science, the Certificate, and the new Legal Nurse Consultant Certificate. The AAS is a 67-69 hour course of study while the Paralegal Studies Certificate and Legal Nurse Consultant Certificate are 22-25 hours and 19 hours respectively. The Legal Nurse Consultant Certificate is a unique program that combines the standard paralegal curriculum with specialized instruction in healthcare law, completed once the student finishes his or her internship. Both certificate programs are available during the evenings to assist students who have full day schedules.

Nashua Community College: Students can pursue an Associate in Science in Paralegal Studies at Nashua Community College in Southern New Hampshire. This 64 hour degree takes four semesters to complete with students enrolling in either a Paralegal Internship and Seminar or the Paralegal Capstone during their final term. This paralegal program is accredited by the American Association for Paralegal Education and Nashua Community College is an institutional member of the Paralegal Association of New Hampshire. Core Paralegal Studies courses include Basic Legal Studies, Legal Research and Writing, Contracts and Business Organizations, Litigation and Trial Preparation, and Real Estate Law.

How to Become a Paralegal in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers numerous options for people interested in pursuing a paralegal education. Most hiring attorneys and firms expect some level of education, and it is important for those entering the paralegal job market to know what these expectations are and how they can be met.

Paralegal programs range from certification to a master’s in paralegal studies, and there are employers looking for legal professionals along this entire range. Candidates must consider various factors when choosing how to approach the career field, such as the length of study, the location of the classes and cost.

Paralegal Schools in New Hampshire

New Hampshire has one school that offers in-class paralegal study that is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). The ABA is a monitor of practices and procedures within the U.S. legal community.

The New Hampshire Technical Institute offers students both a certificate program and an associate’s degree program that have been approved by the ABA.

Prospective students with more demanding schedules and commitments may elect to take one of many online paralegal courses that are available. Online paralegal degree programs include the Paralegal Certificate program at Boston University and a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies at Virginia College.

Top Law Firms for Paralegal Graduates in New Hampshire

Shaheen & Gordon P.A. is a local New Hampshire firm with a national reputation for excellence in trial litigation, and serves clients across northern New England. Shaheen & Gordon encourages its staff to be involved with the local community and be active in civic life. The firm welcomes inquiries from paralegal graduates regarding career opportunities. Gallagher, Callahan & Gartrell P.C. is a business and litigation law firm representing local, regional, national, and even multi-national businesses, as well as non-profits, municipalities, and individuals. Gallagher, Callahan & Gartrell lawyers have received AV and BV ratings from Martindale-Hubbell and been ranked by The Best Lawyers in America, while the firm itself has been recognized by US News with multiple Metropolitan First-tier Best Law Firm rankings. Bradley & Faulkner, P.C. is the largest law firm in southwestern New Hampshire, providing a full suite of services to clients.

New Hampshire Paralegal Salary and Job Outlook

Despite New Hampshire’s relatively small size, average paralegal salaries do fluctuate within the state. On the lower end, Nashua paralegals earn an average of about $47,000, while in Portsmouth the average salary makes an impressive leap to about $60,000.

It is important for prospective employees to research the job requirements and their employer’s needs before selecting a school, so that they can place themselves in the best possible position in this fast-growing market.

Online and New Hampshire Paralegal Schools

Page Edited by Charles Sipe.