New York Paralegal Schools

Aspiring paralegals who choose one of the New York paralegal schools can gain the skills and education necessary to earn a paralegal degree and enter one of the fastest growing professions with one of the highest rates of pay for those graduating with an associate’s degree or certificate degree. Paralegals don’t practice law, but instead conduct research of relevant cases, interview witness for trials, assist with deposition preparation and prepare a variety of documents.

Profiles of Well Known Schools

St. John’s University: The Department of Criminal Justice and Legal Studies at St. John’s University has three American Bar Association Legal Studies programs: a Bachelor of Science, and Associate of Science, and a Certificate. The BS is a four-year, 126 hour program while the AS and Certificate are 60 hours and 21 hours respectively. The Legal Society and Lambda Epsilon Chi are two student organizations through which Legal Studies majors can develop their social and professional networks. Four members of the Department of Criminal Justice and Legal Studies faculty teach the different legal studies programs.

How to Become a Paralegal in New York

There are currently no licensing requirements to work as a paralegal in New York. Employers typically look for a combination of education and experience when hiring for a paralegal position. Paralegal school curricula are focused on the skills necessary to become a successful paralegal in New York. This includes an introduction to the practice of law, legal research and writing and litigation and trial preparation in the first few courses. New York paralegal aspirants generally focus on a number of key legal fields, including trusts and estates, business organization, real estate and contracts. Additional electives may include internships or co-ops for on the job training, or mock trial and trial preparation.

Paralegal Schools in New York

There are more than 20 New York paralegal schools certified by the American Bar Association as having standardized curricula for paralegal and legal assistant aspirants. Among the two-year options are Bronx Community College, Monroe Community College in Rochester, Finger Lakes College in Canandaigua and Queens College in the Flushing section of New York City. Four-year bachelor’s degree options are available at Syracuse University, Marist College in Poughkeepsie among others. For those seeking greater flexibility and convenience, aspiring paralegals may also want to consider online paralegal degree programs such as the Associate of Applied Science – Paralegal at Rasmussen College or the Bachelor’s in Paralegal at Everest University Online.

Top Law Firms for Paralegal Graduates in New York

The Lanier Law Firm is one of the best law firms not just in New York, but in the US, with the National Law Journal calling the firm’s founder Mark Lanier “one of the decade’s most influential lawyers.” The Lanier Law Firm specializes in complex litigation and provides legal and trial counsel services. Hurwitz & Fine, P.C. is a top ranked mid-size firm, and provides services in most areas of the law. Hurwitz & Fine takes pride in its staff, and invites qualified applicants to contact the firm for opportunities. Harris Beach PLLC provides full-service representation and legal advice, and also has deep experience in narrow areas of the law, such as nanotechnology and energy. Harris Beach seeks well rounded professionals to work in a supportive environment with abundant training and mentoring for career growth.

New York Paralegal Salary and Job Outlook

New York state has one of the highest levels of employment for paralegals, as well as one of the highest average salaries according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Average annual salaries are roughly $60,000, with starting salaries in and around New York City closer to $40,000. Opportunities for lateral advancement are possible for those moving from law firms to corporate legal and finance departments, as well as New York state and local agencies.

Online and New York Paralegal Schools

Kaplan University
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Pathway to Paralegal Postbaccalaureate Certificate
• BS in Paralegal Studies
• AAS in Paralegal Studies

Virginia College
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• BAC-Paralegal Studies
• AS - Paralegal Studies

Penn Foster Schools
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Paralegal
• Legal Secretary

Bryant and Stratton College
Campuses: 1Rochester
Popular Degrees:

• Paralegal Studies

Stratford Career Institute
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Legal Assistant/Paralegal

Fortis Institute
Campuses: 1Erie
Popular Degrees:

• Paralegal

Mildred Elley
Campuses: 1Albany
Popular Degrees:

• Paralegal Studies

Concord Law School
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Executive J.D. SM Program
• Juris Doctor Program

Keiser University
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Legal Studies, BA (Online)
• Paralegal Studies, AA (Online)

Walden University
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• B.S. in Political Science & Public Administration - Law and Legal Studies

Page Edited by Charles Sipe.