Utah Paralegal Schools

Utah paralegal schools offer a wealth of options for students looking to earn a paralegal degree and join the more than 1,500 paralegals in Utah who assist law firms, corporate finance departments and government agencies. Unlike other sectors, cost-cutting among attorneys has led to a spike in the growth of the paralegal position, with 30 percent more openings likely by 2018.

How to Become a Paralegal in Utah

Paralegals cannot offer legal advice or represent clients in court, unlike lawyers. However, to become a paralegal in Utah is to understand the other aspects of the legal process. Coursework develops the legal research and writing of paralegal aspirants as they focus on key aspects of law such as contracts, criminal law, personal injury practice and other more specialized disciplines. At the end of the program, whether it be four-, two-year or even shorter, the newly minted Utah paralegal will be able to research, write and code numerous documents, as well as assist attorneys in client intake and interviewing.

Paralegal Schools in Utah

The American Bar Association has certified two programs for students looking to become a paralegal in Utah. Salt Lake Community College offers a two year associate’s degree program with 15 elective hours for students to focus on other tasks. Utah Valley University in Orem offers associate’s degree and bachelor’s degree options; the four-year option includes a mandatory internship. Online options for those with scheduling issues include Herzing University, which offers associate’s degree options and Post University, which offers a post-graduate certificate option.

Utah Paralegal Salary and Job Outlook

More than 80 percent of paralegals in Utah make more than $30,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the average at $42,220. The prospects for advancement are considered good because of the need for paralegals to assist when attorneys are considered impractical, and salaries top out at more than $50,000.

Online and Utah Paralegal Schools