Education
Featured Articles:
Consider a Career as a Paralegal – The Various Positions
and Education Needed
by: Laura McDonald
A career as a paralegal is definitely worthy of consideration. Young
ladies and gentlemen soon entering the job market are wise to select
paths of opportunity and advancement. Becoming a paralegal fits the
bill in many ways.
Wherever there are people, laws are necessary to settle disputes and
protect against crime. There are many areas of law in which
paralegals can work, including corporate, estate planning, tax,
bankruptcy, family and domestic, criminal, environmental protection,
personal injury, civil litigation, trademark, international,
intellectual property, and real estate. All these areas of law
create a variety of work areas, and an abundance of learning
opportunity. Taking advantage of learning opportunities creates more
earning opportunities.
The U.S. Department Labor reports that paralegal careers are on the
rise, and expected to grow much faster than average for all
occupations through the year 2014. The median for paralegal salaries
range between $31,040 and $49,950. In bigger metropolitan areas,
large law firms pay upwards of $60,000. Many paralegals receive
bonuses. Benefits for these positions tend to be attractively
competitive.
The educational and work experience requirements for paralegal
positions vary depending on employer and position requirements.
These days, a four-year degree is highly advisable in general.
Employers often consider applicants with a bachelor’s degree and no
work experience.
A four-year degree is not necessarily required for all paralegal
positions. Another applicant with a two-year degree and more
specialized concentration in paralegal studies and no work
experience may be equally considered. Many employers also consider
the work experience of legal assistants or secretaries who have had
no college training.
Online degrees are gaining popularity and are being considered
positively by employers. There are several online courses designed
for paralegal training. People can earn online degrees while working
full-time in the convenience of their own schedules at home. Such
flexibility of training makes learning easier, and opens doors for
paralegal job opportunities.
There are several other steps one can take to prepare for a career
as a paralegal. Many of these steps are surprisingly easy, and will
open interview doors wider. I will discuss the steps in other
articles soon.
In addition to various opportunities and advancement, positions as a
skilled paralegal can maintain one happily through their entire work
career, yet has the flexibility of being a stepping stone into other
positions. Such other positions, to name a few, could be in law
enforcement, becoming an attorney, or working in top level positions
of other businesses, like becoming a successful realtor. Consider a
career as a paralegal, it just might be right up your alley.
About The Author
Laura McDonald is a paralegal. She is a member of NFPA (National
Federation of Paralegal Associations). Laura is experienced in the
areas of personal injury, civil litigation, family, environmental
and corporate law, estate planning and bankruptcy. She works for
Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C., located in Frankfort,
Kentucky. The firm's website is http://www.mlhlawky.com
Are you fascinated by trials? Do you like helping people? A career
as a Paralegal is challenging, rewarding, and NEVER boring. Sign up
for free newsletters that show you how to step into this exciting
career. Adventures await you....
http://www.paralegalsecretary.bravehost.com