Online Paralegal Degree Will Open Doors

An online paralegal degree may offer the possibility of improving your chances in the legal profession at a number of levels, starting with getting you in the door as a legal assistant. Legal assistants or paralegals are professionals who help attorneys and law firms with legal services. They are not allowed to dispense legal advice, but they are often absolutely essential in legal cases. They may perform research or complete tasks that help attorneys succeed. Legal assistants interview witnesses and clients and summarize interrogatories, testimony and depositions. They also conduct research necessary for legal cases and attend court with the attorney to offer assistance.

It is expected that the demand for legal assistants will grow in the next few years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Employment Projections, the legal assistant profession is expected to grow by 33 percent through 2010. As a result, many people are considering an online paralegal degree in order to take part in this exciting profession. An online paralegal degree can give you the chance to get in at the ground level.

Some of the reasons cited by paralegals for their interest in the field include:

Professional opportunities
Legal assistants are in demand and there is plenty of good work available for these professionals. Legal assistants can work in law firms, with individual attorneys, or even for government agencies. There is plenty of opportunity to move up.

Work satisfaction
For those who have an interest in law and an interest in helping people, this can be a very rewarding field. Legal assistants help attorneys defend clients and possibly even remove criminals from the streets. While assistants do not always get the same public recognition as the lawyers they assist, many paralegals express great satisfaction in their jobs and many enjoy the great variety of work they get to do.

Pay and benefits
The legal profession is a well-paying field and although paralegals earn less than lawyers, they still can earn a substantial amount. The starting salary for a legal assistant in the US is currently around $22,000 and with overtime hours, salaries of $60 000 are quite possible.

Legal assistants often require extensive training and education in order to become qualified for the job. For those who are just starting the process of getting the necessary experience and education, the requirements can seem quite daunting. This is especially the case for those who have work or family responsibilities in addition to schoolwork. One option for these individuals is an online paralegal degree, which allows students to study from the comfort of their own home. If you have a computer and Internet connection, you can take part in distance education that can help you become a legal assistant.

If you are considering whether to try a traditional school or distance education, consider the advantages and disadvantages to getting your degree in cyberspace:

Distance education can be shorter to complete
A certificate can be obtained in as little as a few months and some accelerated programs allow legal assistants to get started with their job search very fast. However, you do need to be sure that your online paralegal degree is legitimate and from an accredited school. Not all distance education has the same prestige.

Distance education can be completed in your spare time
You can work full time and study in the evenings. However, be aware that you can only succeed with an online paralegal degree if you are disciplined enough to work steadily, even after a long day.

Online education can be less expensive
There is no need to move to be near a campus so you'll be saving money not having to commute. Plus, many online paralegal degree programs cost less in tuition than their in-class counterparts. However, you will still be responsible for books and other fees, so do your math carefully before you enroll.

Making the decision to apply for an online paralegal degree is a big decision that will affect your finances and your marketability as a job hunter. Choose your school and degree options carefully for the best post-graduation job options.

Andy West is a freelance writer for Virginia College. VC Online provides a career focused Online Paralegal Degree program. Please visit Virginia College Online at http://www.vconline.edu/site/program.cfm?Program_ID=24

How To Obtain A Credible Online Paralegal Certificate

At hand online are paralegal courses and programs into which you can register and at the conclusion of your program be awarded a certificate for paralegal jobs. You can also receive a degree if you choose a four year Paralegal Bachelor degree program. However, you must be careful to make sure that the program you choose is from an ABA approved paralegal institution, because most employers give priority to applicants with certificates or degrees from such institutions for paralegal jobs.

How To Qualify As A Paralegal.

While searching for a reputable institution online for either a degree or a certificate course for your paralegal training, you will come across many schools on the internet. Many of these institutions have programs designed for first entry Paralegals as well as advanced paralegal students.

Your primary objective in obtaining an online paralegal certificate is to be well taught and prepared for an accredited paralegal exam, which if you pass qualifies you as a Paralegal. So explore the offer of online colleges and make comparisons between them. Aside from competitive prices, a methodical program that has the reputation of high graduation rates is what you should look out for.

A paralegal training will consist of lessons teaching how to facilitate attorneys' jobs and how to carry out research on law. Your lessons will also include preparing of cases for the courtroom. Be aware, however, that some of these online institutions place more emphasis on teaching those areas of law that are not relevant to the duties of a paralegal.

Most of the online paralegal programs offer no formal classes, so you can begin as soon as your signup. However, expect to do a large number of homework every week to prepare you for the paralegal exam for your course. At the completion of your course of study, you will be awarded certificate if you are a first entry paralegal student, and a degree if you chose a for year degree program for the award of a paralegal bachelor degree.

Some of the online paralegal programs may offer tuition aid for indigent students, so it will not hurt to look for such schools if you have need for financial assistance. But as said earlier, be sure that such a school runs an ABA approved paralegal degree program. If you course is such that prepared you to acquire the skills of both a legal secretary and an attorney, then you are a hot cake for both legal firms and legal departments of both private organizations and Government departments.

So it is up to you to organize yourself so that you make the best out of your course of study in order to pass out of your course in flying colors, have imbibed crucial thinking and learned by heart all the rudiments of family law, personal law, personal insurance, immigration law and probate law.

Mention must be made that computer skills is a prerequisite in most organizations and firms nowadays, so this must be part of your course. Above all, you can not hope to succeed as a paralegal without the ability to communicate lucidly . Finally, pay attention to the paralegal ethical code , you will be taught that, and you will need it to be able to do your paralegal job without ethical problems.

Neshah writes for your success - visit Online Paralegal Degree Success or Online Paralegal Degree Success Blog for more information and resources before you embark on online a Paralegal course

What You Should Know Before Taking UP A Paralegal Degree Course

If you decide to obtain an online paralegal degree or certificate, it is imperative to appreciate that you will need, prior taking the classes, a good understanding of your chosen paralegal field and course. You can research the necessary information online for Paralegal training and Paralegal jobs.

This is very necessary because a Paralegal is an important member of a legal firm or the legal department of either an organization or a Government department. A Paralegal?s duty is basically to facilitate the duties of lawyers in law firms, run the legal departments of organizations or Government departments based on paralegal ethical code. . So to be able to coupe with expected Paralegal responsibilities, you either go in for a Bachelor degree course or if you already have a Bachelor degree you could want a Paralegal course to enable you sit for paralegal exam to qualify as a Paralegal.

Courses are usually ABA approved paralegal programs tailored to meet the extensive amounts of Paralegal duties in the field. For instance, as a Paralegal in a law firm, you are supposed to know and be able to do almost all that the lawyers can do except appear in the law court, which was not included in your paralegal education.

This calls for thorough Paralegal training on legal matters, the American legal system and procedure, so that when you graduate and become employed you will be in a position to do all sorts of research and legal duties in legal matters either for a law firm, an organization or a Government department serving the general public.

You can then see why a Paralegal course demands extensive reading skills for you to become equipped for the job of a Paralegal, which among others, include the ability to process data without difficulty by understanding easily the information presented for your action.

The formal entry requirement for an online Paralegal degree program is the high school diploma for a four year course. This leads to a Paralegal Bachelor degree based on a curriculum tailored to inculcate skills and knowledge of American legal system necessary for practicing as a Paralegal in the United States.

A good communication skill will stand you in good stead because at the end of your course and out in the field as a Paralegal you will be involved in interviewing of clients, which requires that you should easily put across what you are saying unambiguously to a client.

Basically, you are to take your course seriously in order to come out prepared to do all or some of the following without difficulty in your paralegal career:

? Draft legal documents
? Handle bankruptcy matters
? Review legal documents and give advice
? Interview clients
? Write legal letters of demands
? Handle Real Estate and foreclosures
? Give legal advice on immigration issues.
? Be in a position to identify and analyse legal positions
? Be able to understand and communicate information between the law firm and the law courts and any other legal problem that will fall into your laps.

Because of the nature of the Paralegal field, a general Paralegal course could be followed by a specialization in a particular field of your choice. All said the Paralegal course and duties are not for faint hearted people. They require real commitment for success to be achieved both during training and in the field with the proper knowledge of the code of conduct of the paralegal profession.

Neshah writes for your success ? visit Paralegal Degree Programs or Online Paralegal Degree Success for more information and resources before you embark on an online Paralegal course

About Paralegal Toronto services

Many people have to face, at least once in their lifetime, a legal problem or a criminal charge which might bring about negative long term consequences if not handled properly. No matter what type of case you have to deal with, you have the right to benefit from eligible advice in order to defend yourself. Don't let your entire life be affected! Depending on the case you deal with, you should resort to professional counseling. A criminal defense lawyer may be exactly what you need; or, the help and assistance of a paralegal... A criminal lawyer Toronto, a Dui lawyer Toronto, paralegal Toronto services - here (on our website) you can find all the help you need! We can certainly make your life easier!

The term of 'paralegal' designates a person who works in the legal profession, helping lawyers in the delivery of legal services, but not yet completely qualified as a lawyer. Paralegals are also called legal assistants, because they assist lawyers with their work. In spite of their various knowledge and experience, paralegals do not have the right to offer legal advice to clients, unless they are supervised by a licensed attorney. They may assist the employer in organizing legal documents or work with the lawyer's clients directly. Although familiar with cases, managing different daily tasks and making research, a paralegal has limited competencies and responsibilities. Regarding complete paralegal Toronto services, we are the ones who can advise you best.

A paralegal is actually employed in the service of a lawyer, corporation or agency, but the respective Dui lawyer Toronto is considered responsible for the legal work carried out by the paralegal. A paralegal works in the same field with lawyers and is entitled to perform any action delegated by a Dui lawyer Toronto or by another type of lawyer, except a number of specific acts that only a licensed lawyer is allowed to perform. For instance, a legal assistant is not allowed to give legal advice or to sign legal papers as the representative of a party. Instead, he can interview witnesses keeping contact with the clients and he can conduct legal researches for example.

In order to become a certified paralegal it is necessary to pass a number of tests given by a paralegal association, but there are many educational programs which can offer paralegal education. Of course, paralegal degrees like Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in paralegal services represent an advantage.

If you are involved in a trial or lawsuit, you will need to know many details and tricks before being able to do things right. Using paralegal Toronto help can make the situation easier to handle. Paralegal Toronto assistants will inform you about all the possible risks, teaching you how to act, how to present yourself in court, how to manage the key questions the prosecutor will ask and how to behave with confidence and credibility.

The paralegal Toronto services we offer will help you to successfully get over many unpleasant situations! Toronto traffic tickets, for instance, have become something more than common, we might say. Even the best drivers have their bad days... We all make mistakes like not wearing a seat belt, speeding or driving without insurance, but we certainly do not want to have our license suspended.

Paralegal Toronto assistance is here to provide the representation you need in order to fight traffic tickets! Still, traffic tickets represent only one of the many problems we can be forced to solve. We frequently have to deal with medical malpractice, personal injury and domestic violence. A criminal charge is one of the most unexpected and uncomfortable situations. In all these cases professional advice is always recommended. Paralegal Toronto experts are here to help you succeed! Do not hesitate to ask for help, because nothing is more important to us than your needs.

Traffic laws can get you into trouble, but our paralegal Toronto services can get you out! Visit our website to find out more on how you can hire a Dui Lawyer Toronto who can give you advice on the type of legal action you should take

Paralegals - What Exactly Do They Do?

So, what's a lawyer got that a paralegal does not?

Well, there's that law degree diploma hanging on the wall. And that hefty fee that comes with an office visit.

While there are some limitations to what a paralegal can do, chances are that most of your attorney's work is done by a paralegal, a legal assistant that he or she trusts to know the law and the documents being prepared. Be thankful - the paralegal fee is far less than the fee would be if an attorney were completing your paper work. Don't worry that your legal work is less effective or efficient because it was completed by someone other than your actual attorney. When the attorney puts his or her signature on a document prepared by a paralegal, the lawyer is verifying that the information is correct. It's just as legal - but probably costing you a lot less - to have the paralegal complete your paper work.

There are a lot of duties a paralegal plays in an attorney's office. The paralegal may do legal research and writing for your attorney. A paralegal may even take over as case manager, a situation that many firms are considering if they have not already adopted to help keep legal fees lower and affordable.

There are five things a paralegal cannot do. One, a paralegal cannot give legal advice. Only a licensed attorney should do that. Two, a paralegal cannot develop the attorney-client relationship. It just makes sense - the attorney-client relationship should be between those two people, otherwise it would be called the law firm representative - client relationship. Three, the paralegal cannot sign papers on behalf of the client. Only the attorney can attest his or her name to those legal documents. Four, the paralegal cannot represent a client in court. While many paralegals could probably do so quite well, it just isn't legal. And, five, the paralegal cannot set and collect legal fees. Only the attorney can do that.

Different states have different requirements for paralegals. Some do specifically require certification. Other states allow attorneys hiring the paralegals to judge the person's qualifications. After all, the attorney will be the one signing off on all of the paralegal's work. Some attorneys require a certain amount of legal experience, a background in research or other clerical skills. If you are interested in a career as a paralegal, check with some attorney's offices or law firms in your hometown. See what their qualifications are. If they prefer to hire paralegals with course certificates, ask if they can recommend a school or schools for you to examine.

There are plenty of opportunities to take paralegal courses, even for today's busiest people. In addition to home study courses, there are online courses, and programs of study at two and four year colleges and universities. One method of study is sure to fit your budget and the school of your choice may even have financial aid options available. If you are thinking of a paralegal career - or changing careers to be a paralegal - check out all your options and decide if having a two or four year paralegal certificate will help make you more marketable in the legal world.

Tip - For options in finding the best lender for you, check out the links below.

Visit paralegal progam | paralegal careers or career paralegal for more information on a Paralegal Career.

Take Advantage Of An Exciting Online Paralegal Degree Program

Online degree programs are like the new technical school. They prepare busy people for the rigors of the work place and provide the knowledge necessary for getting a much better job. Specifically, they offer opportunities in new and budding industries where people have a chance to have a great, long career. Most online universities make their living from working professionals in business who want to gain a degree in order to move up in the corporate world. One different type of degree is gaining popularity, though. The online paralegal degree is one that is relatively painless and affords students an opportunity to work in the legal field. Specifically, this degree is aimed at a person who wants to get there quickly.

The best reason for getting an online paralegal degree is because it will give you an opportunity to jump into a lucrative field. With one of these degrees, you can work immediately as a paralegal or a legal assistant for a big firm or a small firm. With that position, you stand to make a good salary with an opportunity for advancement.

Online paralegal degree programs offer the convenience of quickness, as well. Most online paralegal programs can be completed in around one year, meaning that students can enjoy the fruits of their education much quicker than in the past. These universities have degree programs that will immediately prepare students for the rigors of the legal field. In the program, you will learn the skills of the job and the knowledge to do it right. You will also gain a bit of insight on the work ethic and other responsibilities that are essential to success. By choosing an online paralegal degree program instead of a traditional university, one can gain the skills and expertise to succeed at the job, while skipping the unnecessary courses usually assigned by a traditional program. This degree enables graduates to have a very high job placement when they complete the program.

Another extremely valuable component of this degree program is that it will equip you with a bachelor degree that can lead to many other opportunities. Should you enjoy the legal field after working in it, this degree will give you an opportunity to pursue post-graduate work that will make you even more marketable to big companies. In general, this online paralegal degree is simply a stepping stone to much greater things. While it requires only a year to complete, it affords a lifetime of better living.

Many online universities offer paralegal students the option of combining their degree with another program within the university. Many take advantage of the chance to combine their paralegal degree with something in business. A popular program is the applied management degree program in association with the paralegal training. This specific combination of learning will enable workers to work well with attorneys who work on business law and contract litigation. By gaining even more specialization in a field, workers make themselves doubly marketable to potential employers. With this knowledge, there is a good chance that you can do something that your competitor for a position is unable to do.

Online paralegal degree programs afford students with an opportunity to succeed in a very short period of time. Anyone who has a strong desire to work within the legal field and can put up with about a year?s worth of online classes should consider this challenging and exciting career. This small sacrifice can go a long way to establishing a worker in a growing and very competitive industry.

Andy West is a freelance writer for Virginia College. VC Online provides a career focused Online Paralegal Degree program. Please visit Virginia College Online at http://www.vconline.edu/site/program.cfm?Program_ID=24

Paralegals and Secretaries - An Exploration of Earnings

Income for paralegals and legal assistants varies, depending on education and training, work experience, geographic location, and the employer by size and type. Typically, paralegals working for large metropolitan law firms earn more in salary and benefits. According to the U.S. Department of Labor in May 2004, ?full-time wage and salary paralegals and legal assistants had median annual earnings, including bonuses, of $39,130. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,040 and $49,950. The top 10 percent earned more than $61,390, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $25,360.? In addition to their salary, many paralegals receive bonuses. It is unclear whether bonus reporting was included in the statistics; if not, those earnings would rise even higher.

Continuing with the Department of Labor statistics: ?Median annual earnings of legal secretaries were $36,720 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $29,070 and $46,390. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $23,270, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $56,590.?

Thus, by comparison, paralegals have greater opportunity to earn a higher salary than legal secretaries.

Do legal secretaries earn approximately the same as other types of secretaries? No, it is higher. Referring back to Department of Labor compilations: ?Medical secretaries earned a median annual salary of $26,540 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $21,980 and $32,690. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $19,140, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $39,140. Median annual earnings of secretaries, except legal, medical, and executive, were $26,110 in May 2004.?

Let?s compare the median annual salaries:

Paralegals - $31,040 to $49,950
Legal Secretaries - $29,070 to $46,390
Medical Secretaries - $21,980 to $32,690
Secretaries (Except Legal, Medical and Executive) - $26,110

Which type of position is more attractive based on salary?

It is highly advisable for young people to earn college educations. Competition for jobs is fierce, and particularly with current technological advances, higher education is just plain required to land career jobs. Players in the game of Life who go straight to work rather than the college route, in reality, may wind up with dead-end jobs and victims of the saying, ?he worked until the day he died.?

With paralegal salaries registering at a higher rung than the other office positions, it is reasonable that legal assistants would more than likely require the most education and training. Employers hiring any of the above positions may consider candidates with general course work, but specialized training would naturally be given greater consideration. Specialized training suggests a new hire will pick up the work ball already running. This may also be less costly to the employer during in-house training.

Explore your opportunities for higher education, and consider a career as a paralegal. Salaries are good. The work is interesting. With advancement potential, a paralegal career is an excellent choice. Is it the right one for you?

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....

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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

Paralegals and Pearls - A Match Made in Fashion Heaven

Paralegals wear suits to work. Their jobs are professional in nature and it is important to dress appropriately with that sense of that business world. Ladies, carefully consider how you accessorize with jewelry for the office. A legal assistant?s jewelry should be simple yet elegant.

What is the perfect jewelry selection for work? Pearls.

Resting among the oldest and most universal of gems is the pearl, shining in its many splendors. Pearls are symbolic of purity and chastity, the ultimate of feminine charm. Ancient Romans considered pearls a symbol of wealth and social standing. Pearls were also held in high esteem by the Greeks.

Fair maidens during the Dark Ages believed there was magic in the lustrous gems which would protect them from harm. These maidens often graced a favored noble knight with a strand. Knights thus favored would even wear those strands of pearls into battle. The royal courts of Europe were adorned with pearls. At one time, several European countries ordered that only nobility were allowed to wear pearls.

Pearls are available in the entire color spectrum making them easily adaptable to any outfit. Rose' and silver/white pearls better compliment lighter skin tones. Pearls with a creamier hue or gold-tone flatter darker skin tones.

Sharp business fashion is satisfied by stranding pearls in two different ways. The first way combines pearls of the same size and shape. The second option is a necklace of similarly shaped pearls, but graduating in size to the middle of the piece. A tip: wear necklaces no greater than 16-18? in length. This keeps another?s focus automatically pulled upwards, toward the face, which is best for work communication. Another tip for paralegals when wearing pearl necklaces: add just a touch of gloss on your lips. A pearl necklace captures focal point attention, moving upwards, first to the subtle lip shine and upwards again to shining eyes.

Pearls are beautiful jewelry staple for office wear. They are also very adaptable to many occasions in a woman?s life. The petite gems are often a ?rites of passage? gift for young ladies, such as a 16th or 21st birthday. Pearl necklaces can be either store-bought for such gifts, or hold the sentimental value of being handed down family generations.

Pureness is symbolized in weddings by white gowns, white lace?and pearls. The luminescent beads are worn by brides, ladies in the wedding party itself, and mothers of the bride and groom. Female wedding guests may also wear pearls.

Pearls are just as appropriate for other occasions, such as church services, or an evening at the opera. Add a pearl necklace to a social mixer outfit and the outfit is complete. Tiny pearl earrings can be worn anywhere for any occasion.

Pearls are quite literally gems that a woman can infuse into her wardrobe for many occasions in her life. Versatility of color hue makes mixing and matching a breeze. Combined with the pearl?s history of symbolic purity and wealth, what better accessory is there for a paralegal to wear?

A paralegal will greatly benefit from simply adding pearls to her wardrobe. The benefits are both in the sense of appropriate business fashion, and to her as a beautiful woman. A woman?s pearls shine, just like her eyes do, as she succeeds both professionally and personally. If you have not done so already, add pearls to your wardrobe today.

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....

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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

Why is a Paralegal Career an Excellent Choice

A career as a paralegal is an excellent choice. Young people graduating from high school and college should consider becoming a paralegal, legal assistant or legal secretary. There are many reasons to explore legal careers.

Some people use their office staff positions as springboards to become attorneys. They can work during the day and take classes in the evening. While they are working in their springboard positions, they learn on-the-job. They might admit this arrangement, though tough at times, gives them an advantage in law school courses.

A paralegal career certainly does not have to be a springboard to be successful and fulfilling. Legal assistants can enjoy their careers in the long-term. These are solid careers with as much learning and opportunity for advancement as the candidates opt to create for themselves. Some people enjoy their careers in a particular area of law so much they stick with it, be it the very same position or the same type of position. Others take the opportunity to work in different areas. Either way, these careers are filled with learning and new experiences.

Working in a law firm is prestigious. Law firms are comprised of white-collar workers who dress to fit the part, from the managing attorney to the partners, associates, paralegals, legal secretaries, receptionists and clerks. Those hired are very intelligent, or they would not have even made it through the door. This creates refreshingly crisp office communication from friendly jokes and camaraderie during breaks, to stimulating work discussions.

People working in the legal field are particularly aware of political issues and upcoming changes in the law. After all, it affects how they accomplish their jobs. As a paralegal, you?re ?in the know? and often reminded of the very principles upon which this nation was built.

Consider the job structure of such a career. More often than not, a paralegal position in a legal department comprises regular work hours. The benefits offered in these positions are competitive in order to hire good employees. Those benefits include vacation and sick time, 401K, and available group health insurance. Lunch breaks are usually one hour. Most law firms or companies with legal departments are situated in downtown hubs that provide variety for dining and shopping. Parking fees are usually paid by the employer.

Many retail store workers get an employee discount when they purchase items sold by their employer. Car salesmen receive bonuses for top sales. In most any type of work position, there are specific perks. As a paralegal, typically one perk is free legal advice.

A legal assistant has access to a wealth of legal information in person and through available written and computerized materials. She can easily prepare her own Will, Living Will and General Power of Attorney. A paralegal might prepare her own real estate documents; this saves money at closing. Family law information and forms are available for divorces, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and adoption.

The ability to prepare one?s own formal paperwork and to discuss strategy regarding personal situations with attorneys, free of charge, is a major benefit. Larger law firms may have a cap on how many hours of free legal advice an employee may request in a year, and smaller ones may have no cap. Free legal advice is a particularly helpful work benefit for our many life chapters. It could actually save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

These are just a few of the reasons to choose a career as a paralegal. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that paralegal positions are on the rise. This is the perfect time to embark on your career course as a paralegal, legal assistant, or legal secretary. Would you like to learn more, and earn more?

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....

www.paralegalsecretary.bravehost.com

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 www.mlhlawky.com

Consider a Career as a Paralegal - The Various Positions and Education Needed

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 upcoming articles.

In addition to various opportunities and advancement, positions as a skilled paralegal can maintain one happily through their entire work career, yet have 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.

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

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

How to Become a Paralegal

Paralegals work under the supervision of lawyers as essential and skilled participants of the legal team. They assist lawyers by performing detailed legal research, conducting client interviews, preparing statements, maintaining financial office records, and doing several other jobs of equal challenge.

Paralegal professionals come from different backgrounds. Education, certification and internship are paramount to advancement in this profession. These requirements vary widely, but are normally related to the duties of the position.

Paralegal programs include general education courses, law-related courses, and legal specialty courses. The specialty courses are core programs that introduce students to domestic relations, legal research and writing, wills and estate administration, business organizations, and litigation. The students are encouraged to study general education and law-related courses prior to enrolling in the specialty programs.

ABA (American Bar Association) accredited universities and colleges offer associate?s degree (usually 2 year programs), certificate programs, and a 4-year bachelor?s and/or master?s degrees in paralegal studies.

Paralegal internships are the integral part of many paralegal training programs. They offer the students practical experience by providing work experience in professional fields like law firms, attorney general?s offices, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. Paralegals are also given specialized training in some other fields. Individuals with naturalist experience often work in environmental law, while paralegals in personal injury or medical malpractice may have undergone medical training.

A paralegal education and law school education are entirely different. Therefore it is not possible for a person to become a lawyer after working as a legal assistant. Paralegal graduates lack the qualification and eligibility to obtain a bar license.

Paralegals work in private law firms, banks, insurance agencies, legal clinics, courts, government agencies, accounting and engineering firms, and legal aid offices. Their salaries differ, depending upon their education and experience, the type of employer, and the geographic location of the job. According to the National Association of Legal Assistants? reports, paralegals earned an average nationwide salary of $38,000 in 2000.

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Online Paralegal Programs

If you are looking for a career in the legal profession as a paralegal, you can find several online programs offered by recognized universities and colleges. These online certificate programs offer you a widening array of choices that range from those institutions that are just combining online course work into classroom instruction, to those who provide complete degree programs fully in cyberspace.

The course syllabi include legal concepts and practical paralegal techniques; all are applicable to real-world situations. The classes prepare individuals to get ready for court, conduct legal research, interview clients and witnesses, and prepare documents. In more specialized programs, students can find out the nuances of criminal defense, bankruptcy, corporate law, or public policy.

Online schools offer associate degrees, bachelor degrees and certificates in paralegal studies. The common degrees are AAS (Associate of Applied Science) in paralegal, BS (Bachelor of Science) in paralegal, and associate of arts degree in paralegal. An AAS degree can be completed in as little as twelve months, and as many as two years. BS degree takes a little longer time, with 180 credits to be studied in a time period of four years or less. A paralegal certificate can be accomplished with twenty-four credits, and can take as little as fourteen months, and as much as eighteen months to complete.

The key advantages of online paralegal programs are no campus attendance, no commuting, and no deadline strain. All their exams are open-book/open notes. You can enroll any time and have affordable, interest-free tuition. Many programs help students use advanced technology with a combination of e-mail, chat rooms, synchronous and asynchronous discussion groups, complimented by textbooks and fieldwork.

By enrolling in paralegal online programs accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), students can assure future employers that they can offer comprehensive assistance in the delivery of legal services. In the United States, several accredited schools offer complete paralegal studies programs online. Among the major schools are Maryland University College in Maryland, Washington Online Learning Institute, Canyon College in Idaho, Kaplan University, and Keiser College eCampus.

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Paralegal Associations

Paralegal associations are considered one of the network tools that bind practicing paralegals, vendors, and students in the paralegal field. These serve as a means to know about paralegals and inspire one to start a career as a paralegal. These associations encourage paralegal education to a great extent. In addition, they work along with the bar and other law organizations in the region.

Paralegal associations offer services to law firms, paralegal training schools and colleges, legal departments, and even to individuals who work for other persons in legal fields. The associations make the members aware of the importance of pro bono activities and encourage them to offer such services.

There are a number of national, state, and local paralegal associations throughout the nation. The state and local associations are affiliated with any one of the national associations, in most cases. Some among the national associations are the International Paralegal Management Association, the National Association of Paralegals (NALA), and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA). Among these NFPA is the largest association in the United States.

Paralegal associations have different types of membership based on the individual. The membership categories include pre-student, student, affiliate, associate, and regular. All those individuals enrolled as members have to follow certain standards and the ethnic codes of the affiliated association.

Paralegal associations benefit its members in a number of ways. They conduct educational programs, seminars, meetings, and other events to enhance knowledge in this field and to improve skills in this profession. They help individuals to maintain communication or interaction with various persons related to law. Many associations have publications to disseminate the current happenings and changes in the paralegal industry. With job data banks and referral services, these associations help individuals to know about paralegal openings in various firms and agencies.

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Paralegal Classes

Paralegal classes comprise both substantive legal knowledge and professional skill classes. These classes aim at the development of core skills in legal research techniques. Studies involve compilation and analysis of data, understanding legal vocabulary, preparation of legal documents, and law office management. A certified paralegal program coordinator can conduct paralegal classes. Only approved institutions can conduct paralegal classes. Paralegal regulations may vary with each national association.

Various kinds of public and private institutions offer paralegal classes. These include business colleges, community colleges, universities and proprietary institutions. These institutes award associate degree, bachelor?s degree and advanced degree in paralegal education. The classes cover paralegal topics, general education and related areas. The duration of associate degree classes is up to 70 semesters. Bachelor?s degree classes include paralegal and related courses. The duration is up to 130 semesters. Very few institutions conduct master's degree classes or advanced classes for paralegals. Some universities conduct advanced degree classes for legal administration and legal studies.

The paralegal education classes also comprise certain legal topics. They are substantive law, legal office management, procedural law, law office related environments, delivery of legal services, paralegal profession, legal research, legal writing, computer skills, legal interviewing, legal investigation, ethics and other areas of legal practice. General education related to paralegal classes focus on topics such as critical thinking, communication skills, computer skills, ethical understandings, organizational skills and computational skills. The general education classes also ensure basic understanding of history, business and political systems.

Various institutions conduct paralegal certificate programs. These programs are conducted for those students who already hold an associate or bachelor?s degree. The duration of paralegal certificate classes may be from 18 to 60 semesters. Paralegal education programs offer student services. This includes career information, placement assistance, academic counseling, paralegal associations and continuing legal education.

Some institutions provide both campus and online paralegal classes. After completion of the online course, certificates are issued to the student. The campus students and online students get the same certificate.

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Paralegal Degrees

Paralegal degrees are considered an added advantage in the contemporary legal field. With paralegal degrees, individuals become qualified to analyze the facts needed for legal disputes and prepare documentations.

Paralegal degrees include Associate in Science, Bachelor of Science, and Master of Science in Paralegal Studies. Associate degree courses are of two years duration. Bachelor degrees take four years to complete. These are well suited for those persons who are keen on getting jobs in large organizations or continuing education at law schools. All these paralegal degrees are available through various colleges, schools, and universities as traditional or online courses. Online degrees are beneficial for those individuals who want to learn at homes and other convenient places. These are also well suited for individuals doing full or part time jobs.

There are certain things to consider before opting for paralegal degree courses. The institutions offering paralegal degrees should have approval from the American Bar Association (ABA). You have to check the credentials of the degree granting institutions before applying for the course, especially online.

Paralegal degrees help individuals to specialize in a particular field in law. Individuals can specialize in different areas such as family law, corporate law, personal injury, health care, estate planning, civil litigation and civil rights, immigration, real estate, environmental protection, and criminal law.

Paralegal degrees are beneficial for students who want to begin a career as paralegals. Individuals in non professional legal positions can secure job advancements with these degrees. Degree holders can work in law firms, court houses, government agencies, banks, and insurance companies. They can work with attorneys, prosecutors, judges, and public defenders. Moreover, these degrees have great recognition in the legal field as well as in the business world.

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Paralegal Internships

Lots of companies looking for paralegals or legal assistants prefer those who have previous work experience. Participation in the paralegal internship programs is a good means to acquire that experience. Today, the internships are an integral part of all paralegal certificate programs. The internships are designed to improve the student?s total learning experience through a planned period of inspection, study and involvement in a law firm.

Paralegals are very important to law offices, corporate legal departments, government agency courthouses and other law-related settings. These people hold case analysis, research, and client interviews. Besides, they write lawful documents and prepare wills, bankruptcy records and real estate papers. By handling limitless routine tasks and research, paralegals can save lawyers? time and clients? money.

Paralegal students have numerous opportunities to achieve real world experiences within the legal society by finishing an internship. They get valuable insights into different areas of practice to improve their legal knowledge and career choices. In general, all paralegal students have to complete an internship. However, the majority opt to complete two internships.

American bar association guidelines require all paralegal students to attend and complete an internship program even if they are already working in a law firm. All internship programs are a practical how-to guide for paralegal students to perform in law-related offices. The major stages of an internship experience includes identifying erudition goals, finding the right office, self-monitoring and documentation, and handling office politics.

A potential paralegal student will merit from the chance to observe and work with practitioners in the field. Paralegal internships help the students apply the concepts and principles attained in the classroom, mingle with professionals in the legal community, and analyze on-the-job experiences with regard to academic learning.

In the United States, many organizations and education institutions offer paralegal internships with practical and working experience in a legal setting. Most internship programs are unpaid. Many institutes reimburse interns for mileage and related costs incurred in the performance of the intern?s responsibilities. If pay is available, it normally starts from a minimum salary to $12 per hour.

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Paralegal Resources

Paralegal associations are one of the most important paralegal resources available. These associations maintain a database of paralegals who are members. These associations can be national, state or local. Most state and local associations are affiliate members of national associations. Some among the national associations are the American Association for Paralegal Education, the National Paralegal Association, the National Association of Legal Assistants, and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (the largest paralegal association). State associations include the Illinois Paralegal Association, the Paralegal Association of Florida, and the Empire State Alliance of Paralegal Associations.

Bar associations are included in the category of paralegal resources. These associations are actually membership organizations aiming at uplifting legal profession standards and maintaining unity among legal professionals. Like paralegal associations, these vary from national to local ones. Every state features a bar association of its own. The American Bar Association is the largest such association in the nation. Other associations include the National Bar Association, the California Bar Association, the Ohio State Bar Association, and the Cleveland Bar Association.

Legal Assistant Today (LAT) is a large independent trade magazine that contains all necessary information for paralegals. This law journal provides technical information, career opportunities, current trends, and other informative details for readers.

Other resources include law firms and resource centers. Government sites such as the United States Department of State, the United States Department of Justice, Federal Government Resources (Civil Service), Office of the Attorney General, and the American Civil Liberties Union are associated with paralegal resources.

In addition, there are a number of books and publications that serve as educational paralegal resources. These resources are well suited for students, instructors, and professionals to know more about the subject. Some resources are published electronically. These publications may sometimes need subscription as members to make use of the facility. Once subscribed, members are given user name and password to enter the corresponding website.

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Paralegal Resumes

A well written paralegal resume represents the knowledge, experience and abilities of a paralegal. An entry level paralegal should give importance to the qualification part while preparing a resume. An experienced paralegal can at the same time highlight experience and achievements. Prepare different resumes for various paralegal positions. Prepare both chronological and functional resumes to emphasize different accomplishments.

In a paralegal resume, the first step is to prepare a list of skills. The list can include assignments done in the paralegal classes. A paralegal can also list the responsibilities and other details about the internship. The next step is to write down previous work experience. Work experience also includes legal as well as non legal work experience.

The important part of a paralegal resume is the summary or qualification part which is an overview of a paralegal?s educational background. If a paralegal has any legal experience, it should be specified in the first line of the summary part. Write down the most recent education first and then the earlier education. If a paralegal has completed any advanced paralegal education program, it can also be included in the education part. The summary part must include the strengths, other work experience and computer skills. A paralegal can also specify research or analytical skills and advanced skills in the summary part.

Paralegal resumes in functional format can include two or three headings. The headings can be legal, office management, organization skills, information management, writing skills and interpersonal skills. The details can be specified under these functional headings. Internship and skills, defense interviews, draft pleadings, analyzed court rules and reviewed case files can be included under legal skills. In functional format, write down the work experience at the end. It can include job title, employer and date.

There are some general points to be noted while preparing a paralegal resume. Your name should be in bold format and larger than the address. Generally 12 point type letter size is used in a paralegal resume. Accomplishments and achievements can be emphasized using bullet format.

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Paralegal Salaries

Paralegal salaries depend on various factors such as education, training, experience, geographic location and type of the firm. Paralegals who work in large metropolitan areas generally earn more money than those who work in less populated regions. Generally, the annual salary of a paralegal can range from $24,470 to more than $61,150. The median salary of a paralegal is approximately $33,000. Benefits included in the annual salary of a paralegal are health insurance, sick leave, vacation time and retirement plan. Many paralegals receive year end and case bonuses in addition to their annual salary.

There is salary variation in large firms, small legal firms and government agencies. Paralegals working for the government receive higher salaries and benefits. The large law firms pay higher salary to paralegals than the smaller ones. Some of the law firms give higher salaries and benefits to paralegals with specific qualifications. Attorneys generally pay paralegals based on the quantity and quality of their work. Paralegals can get discretionary bonus based on their overall performance. Overtime payment for the paralegals depends on whether the paralegal is an exempt or nonexempt employee. Nonexempt employees can get overtime compensation under the state laws. Regulations for paralegals may vary with each state. This change also affects the annual salary of paralegals.

According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Legal Assistants, the average annual salary for paralegals in 2004 was $46,862. The average annual bonus was around $3,339. The average total annual salary including bonus was $50,255. The survey highlights that the salaries for paralegals increased by an average of $1,700 per year. The median average salary for a paralegal in Los Angeles is $45,116. In San Francisco, paralegals can expect a beginning salary ranging from $30,000 to $45,000. A senior paralegal in San Francisco can expect a salary of $55,000.

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Paralegal Seminars

Paralegal training courses, paralegal training seminars and train-the-trainer programs are important for all paralegals, also called legal assistants. A paralegal?s jobs include helping attorneys prepare for closings, hearings, trials, and corporate meetings. The paralegal occupation is now a reputable and popular career path. This legal profession is rated as one of the fastest growing careers in the United States.

Students who enroll in one of several paralegal certificate programs must take a declared number of courses, including core courses and specialty law courses. Besides the courses, students must attend many mandatory paralegal seminars. All seminar programs are designed to meet an individual?s training needs as a paralegal, legal assistant or legal secretary. The seminars are normally taken by practicing attorneys, judges and paralegals who are highly appreciated in their field.

The paralegals must be smart to record and present their observations and opinions to their supervising lawyer. For this, they need to know all related legal terms and have good analytical skills. Besides, they are ready to learn new developments in the laws that influence their area of practice. Participation in continuing paralegal education seminars help paralegals maintain and increase their knowledge of the law. Seminars such as discovery skills for legal staff, document production and organization, and litigation skills for legal staff are just some of the insightful topics available.

Many organizations provide custom or onsite seminars for paralegals in the United States. If you are searching for a one-day live seminar or a customized training session to bring to your office, consider National Business Institute, Lorman Education Services, HalfMoon Seminars and National Association of Legal Assistants; all are the nation?s best organizations for paralegals. They provide several carefully designed seminar programs that help you stay current on existing laws and legislation that influence your practice.

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Paralegal Tips

Those individuals with a bachelor?s degree in any discipline can become a paralegal by studying short term paralegal programs. These programs are made available through continuing education programs at various universities. A double major is an ideal choice for those individuals who want specialization in specific non legal fields.

Those persons who want to become paralegals can do online or traditional paralegal courses from various universities and colleges. These persons should check whether the paralegal programs are approved before applying for the course. The approval is obtained from the American Bar Association (ABA).

Paralegals should have sufficient knowledge in online computer searching and other software programs related to law. This helps to perform tasks in a better way, as paralegals most often require computers to do work.

For work to be done in an efficient and successful manner, it is important to prioritize the work. Regular meetings with attorneys can help paralegals to know daily schedules and organize accordingly. This in turn allows paralegals to give information to clients about their cases in a better way.

If any problem is there with files, discuss with attorneys as early as possible and solve the problem or question that arises in your mind. A paralegal can ask his superior to arrange meetings on a weekly basis to know about the work schedules and the work to be done in the following week.

For work being completed, paralegals have to inform the clients about the fee details. Recording work details every now and then can help paralegals to provide correct billing information. While billing, paralegals should have a clear idea about what is important and what is not. He should provide task details in a precise and pleasing manner along with the expenditures. This benefits the clients as well as the paralegals and their supervisors.

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What is a Paralegal?

A paralegal is a person who assists the attorneys in the delivery of legal services. A paralegal is also known as legal assistant. A paralegal should be qualified through education and training to perform substantive legal work. Substantive work of paralegal includes recognition, evaluation, organization, analysis, and communication of legal facts. Paralegal cannot represent a client. Attorneys are responsible for the legal work delegated to paralegals. The attorney is held responsible for ethical violations committed by a paralegal. Paralegals are members of national and local associations and they should follow the ethical codes of those associations.

Paralegals are of great assistance to attorneys in that they help the attorneys to prepare complex cases. They are prohibited from practicing law without license. Paralegals are not allowed to give legal advice. All work performed by the paralegals must be under the supervision of an attorney. Paralegals can conduct interviews and maintain general contact with the client. They can locate and interview witnesses and draft legal documents and pleadings. Paralegals can conduct legal research and attend court or administrative hearings and trials with the attorney.

Paralegals generally work with attorneys, judges, prosecutors and public defenders. They also work with corporations, banks, consumer organizations, finance companies, accounting firms, real estate agencies, advertising agencies, engineering firms, government agencies and insurance companies. Paralegal may work as freelancers in private practice. Paralegals can also specialize in special areas such as health care, family law, civil litigation, environmental protection, personal injury and criminal law.

Most of the paralegals would have completed a bachelor?s degree in paralegal studies. A certified paralegal is one who has completed the voluntary certification program of a professional association. The American Association for Paralegal Education, National Association of Paralegals and National Federation of Paralegal Associations conduct different certification programs for paralegals. Paralegal is not a licensed profession in United States.

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Paralegal Job Outlook - Stagnant or Full Steam Ahead?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for paralegals is very good, with an expected growth rate near 33 percent a year through 2010. The bureau notes that compared to other professions, the leap in the paralegal field is dramatic.

The paralegal or legal assistant profession is expected to grow because of a couple of economic factors. One, more law firms are hiring paralegals to do some of the necessary legwork - research and paper work on their behalf. This frees up the attorney for court appearances and for developing client-attorney relationships, two duties a paralegal is not allowed to do. Two, having a paralegal do the work rather than an expensive paid by the hour attorney saves the client money.

Law firms are not the only agencies that hire paralegals or legal assistants. Many corporations, businesses and non profit agencies have also seen the benefit of having a paralegal on staff. If you are considering a career as a legal assistant, keep that in mind and do not narrow your job search only to law firms or private attorneys - unless, of course, your passion is to work for a law office or directly for an attorney.

While the paralegal job market looks great, competition to participate in the paralegal field will be increasingly stiff. With competition growing, the best way to make yourself marketable in the field is to get all the training you possibly can. Once upon a time, legal assistants were trained on the job. There was not professional training other than clerical training that would prepare a person for a career as a paralegal. Many of those paralegals are retiring these days, having been hired in the 1960s or 1970s when the paralegal field really began. Now, the lawyers and firms they have been working for over the last 20 some odd years want their replacements to be trained and ready to work.

Getting training for a career as a legal assistant is convenient, even for those people who have other jobs who want to train in their spare time for a paralegal career. Many community colleges offer paralegal training certification in two year study programs. Some colleges and universities offer paralegal training as part of a four year course of study. Even more opportunities exist online and through correspondence courses. Research all your options and weed out the ones that just don't make sense for you. When you take time to look at all the training possibilities available, you will see that there is course work available to fit your time and budget constraints.

Of course, even with training and certification as a paralegal, you will still have to get in sync with your boss, whether working for an individual attorney, a firm, or as a paralegal in the business sector. Getting to know the expectations of your job and your role as a paralegal in the office in which you work will also play a factor in your success in your career as a legal assistant.

Visit online paralegal training | paralegal training or nfpa for more information on a Paralegal Career.

What Does a Paralegal Do?

Paralegals are assistants specially trained to handle the day-to-day needs of the lawyers they work for. Whether you are the sole assistant to a top lawyer or part of a team of paralegals in a legal department, your job will include the following tasks:

Draft and file documents, Interview clients, Research cases and precedents, Non-legal research

As a paralegals, you will be able to find work anywhere including private law forms, the district attorney's office, government agencies, major corporations, banks, hospitals, or insurance companies.

What training do I need to become a paralegal? Community colleges, online institutions, and vocational schools all offer certificates, associate's degrees and bachelor's degrees. No matter which program you choose, you will be trained specifically for the position of paralegal.

Your training as a paralegal will give you the tools to make a lawyers job go more smoothly without the ultimate responsibility of the cases. The list of tasks delegated to paralegals grows daily but their scope of practice is very specifically defined especially regarding presenting cases in court, offering legal advice, and setting legal fees.

What will I earn as a paralegal? Education and experience greatly impact your earning potential as a paralegal. Where you live and who employs you also affects your rate of income.

Large firms and companies in large cities generally pay more than their smaller, more rural counterparts. Many paralegals, however, are often given bonuses in addition to a salary that could land anywhere between $28,000 and $50,000+. Legal secretaries make a bit more with salaries that range from $32,000 to $53,000+. Senior paralegals command salaries of $35,000 to $60,000+.

Do I need to be licensed or certified to be a paralegal? No. There are some national exams for paralegals but none are required. It is recommended that you enroll in an American Bar Association approved program.

What is the future of the field? The position of paralegal is expected to grow faster than most professions in the next decade, by more than 30 percent.

Melissa Steele is a featured writer for EducationGuys.com. She has been writing about college degrees & trade schools since 2004. To learn about legal degrees and law schools online, please visit us today.

Paralegals: Don't Burn Bridges

There?s a new job on the horizon. You get to leave your old job. You know, the one with the boss you can?t stand. The really mean one. The one you?d love to give a piece of your mind. Matter of fact, you think you?ll do just that?before you leave?.

It?s perfectly fine to act that one out in fantasy, as many times as delights you. But heed this advice ? don?t do it in reality! And here?s why.

Life has a funny way of tossing curve balls our way. That very same ex-boss with whom you shared your parting piece of mind? Suddenly, he?s opposing counsel on a new case your new attorney boss just accepted. Even worse, he could be your attorney?s co-counsel on a case!

Perish the thought, but what if for some unforeseen reason, your new job doesn?t work out? Now you?re scrambling to interview elsewhere. You need a recent recommendation. It?s going to be rather awkward to ask the one who vividly recalls you spouting off as you waltzed out the door.

One certainly doesn?t have to lie when leaving an unpleasant position. ?Thank you, Mr. Smith, it?s been great working with you. I couldn?t wait to get to work every day. I?ll miss you.? That?s really piling it on, isn?t it? If that were true, why are you leaving?

If questioned as to why you?re leaving, choose a politically correct comment, such as: ?I think my skills are better suited to the new position,? or ?The benefits are simply too good to pass up.? Then, go the extra mile. Offer to train your replacement. Ensure the workload you?re leaving is manageable ? complete tasks that may be difficult for the new employee to assume. Leave detailed notes regarding ongoing assignments, and an updated list of any deadlines or to-do?s for both your boss and your replacement.

The best way to leave a job, even a job for the boss you really won?t miss, is with style and grace. Never burn bridges. You may have to cross them again!

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....

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Laura McDonald is a paralegal, employed by Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C. 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.

Paralegals Practice Unparalleled Phone Propriety

Your mission, legal assistants, should you decide to accept it, is to handle many of your boss? phone calls. A good legal assistant continually strives to free up the attorney?s time for court appearances, meetings, and more in-depth legal research. After all, this is how an attorney earns his fees. But in order to have fees that can be earned, new work must materialize. The majority of new work for attorneys comes in the form of phone calls. Handle these phone calls wisely.

The ability to filter through types of phone calls and handle as much of the phone work as possible, with finesse, is an excellent skill to develop. A paralegal must be familiar with her boss? schedule, his caseload, his clients, and his particular style in order to filter the phone calls well. She must also be thoroughly familiar with the types of new cases her boss may accept. This includes understanding the office?s standard procedure for inquiries he is either unable to fulfill or too busy to fulfill.

Often new assignments are derived from repeat business - a client who has used your attorney?s services in the past. A paralegal should possess basic knowledge of these return clients, including how to get in touch with clients by mail, phone, fax, and e-mail. Utilize your office?s file management system to keep this information handy. (If your business has no file management system, I urge you to campaign for one as soon as possible.)

One of your duties may be to recall old matter files for a returning client. Many law offices utilize off-site storage for closed files. Depending on the situation, old files may contain valuable information that will assist your attorney in handling new matters.

Sometimes new clients are referred by your boss? colleagues, professional peers, friends and acquaintances. When referrals occur, make note of it so you can prepare a thank you letter from your boss. If this type of appreciation is not standard practice at your firm, discuss the benefits with your attorney. Once approved, do just that, automatically. Do not slack on the newly adopted nicety. Niceties often develop into more business referred your boss? way. In any event, it shows appreciation and is a highly professional touch.

There will also be ?cold callers? who are shopping through advertising resources: phone books, the internet, television advertising. Here is where the true colors of a paralegal come out ? having the ability to ferret which callers are just shopping for free advice over the phone. Some folks will be unable to afford your attorney?s services. For those types of calls, there may be organizations to which you can refer such a caller. Know your community so that you will be able to efficiently refer callers to appropriate help.

Other ?cold calls? may concern cases your boss will accept, but the potential client may need some selling tactics to win their business. Highlight your boss? skills and track record. In the process of doing so, you will also be highlighting your own skills. This makes hiring your boss doubly attractive because you are already establishing good rapport with the new client.

Never forget the importance of professional handling of phone calls. If phone etiquette is lacking, it can actually lose business for your attorney. Support him well by handling phone calls with tiptop professionalism.

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....

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Laura McDonald is a paralegal, employed by Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C. 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.

Christmas: Should a Paralegal Buy Gifts for Co-workers?

With Christmas peeking around the corner, it?s time for paralegals to start thinking about their shopping list for office gifts. Bigger law firms may adopt the Secret Santa method. Names of participants are written on strips of paper and dropped in a hat. Each person draws one name and shops for that lucky recipient. Typically a spending limit is set. This method may cut down on how many people are on your gift list. A word of advice, if you participate in a Secret Santa drawing, do everyone a favor by adhering to the spending limit. There?s nothing more irritating than one or two people getting awesome, expensive gifts while others who followed the rules sit there feeling oddly embarrassed that they DID follow the rules.

That said, yes, you should buy gifts for your attorney, secretary, other paralegals, and most especially support staff ? the receptionist and clerks whose help is oh-so-necessary.

You do not have to spend an arm and a leg to show your yuletide appreciation for co-workers. If you have an inside track on types of things those on your list would like, great. If you don?t, this list may be helpful.

1. Baked goods (homemade or store bought)
2. Bath and body products
3. A paperweight
4. Gift certificate (to a restaurant, mall or movie theater)
5. Pen set
6. Lapel pin
7. Scarf
8. Chocolates
9. Plant
10. Gloves
11. Potpourri
12. Candles
13. Ornament
14. Stress ball
15. Photo frame
16. Coffee cup warmer

To cover bigger groups likes clerks/runners, your best bet is baked goods. Prepare the goodies on a festive plate and wrap with red or green cellophane. Finish with a ribbon.

Gifts for your boss ? do not choose gifts that are too personal. It is inappropriate particularly if your boss is of the opposite sex. However, if you are aware of a hobby or pastime that your boss enjoys, you can find something that compliments it.

Gaily wrapped packaging makes a ?small? gift more special. Take time to attractively wrap and beribbon your office gifts.

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

Laura McDonald is a paralegal, employed by Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C. 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.

Online Colleges - Raising the Bar in Paralegal Studies

Today, students can enroll in an online college to acquire adequate skills and training in fields of paralegal and legal assisting in less than two years time. Because many working adults simply do not have the time to travel to and from campuses; or can?t meet rigorous schedules and deadlines, online colleges developed essential paralegal programs, which can lead to certification and/or an Associate?s Degree.

Some folks might assume that online college paralegal studies are less in-depth than traditional school curriculums; on the contrary, in many cases, online college legal assistant courses are often as comprehensive as conventional instruction methods. Subsequently, online college students who are enrolled in a paralegal course often gain a wealth of additional technical skills as they learn how to use computer interface programs proficiently, as well as other multimedia materials that are integrated for student academic use.

One of many outstanding features that online colleges provide for their paralegal students is an often, one-on-one interaction between both pupils and instructors, and fellow students. A personalized format, online college students who are learning about the legal system will commonly receive constructive feedback from teachers on individual projects and class assignments. In addition, students may also work collaboratively with other online students with the use of high-tech software. In essence, online colleges sometimes afford a greater span of technological and practical training to their students then do traditional colleges of a similar field.

Online colleges that offer paralegal programs of study are comprised of detailed coursework including but not limited to Business Law I (business crimes; contracts; agencies; employment and negotiation); Business Law II (bailment; agency principles and liabilities; partnerships; corporations; stockholders; negotiable securities); Introduction to Legal Assisting (legal terminology; bibliography; litigation projects); Civil Litigation; Tort Law; Claims Investigation; Wills, Trust and Probate Administration; Civil and Criminal Evidence; Legal Writing; Marriage and Family Law; Property and Creditor Rights; Basic Probate Administration; and Legal Research Laboratory ? among other relevant subject matter.

Though an online associate?s degree in paralegal studies often covers additional general education courses, a certificate in paralegal training is more course-intensive. Online college students that have successfully completed educational requirements of a paralegal study program may opt to take and pass an exam to become a Certified Legal Assistant through the NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants); those who go onto attaining their bachelor?s degree may also sit for and pass the National Federation of Paralegal Associations exam to be designated as a Registered Paralegal (RP).

Online college candidates who have achieved paralegal status may embrace rewarding careers in the field. While income varies depending on education and experience, paralegal earnings may range from $25,000 to over $61,000 annually.

If you are thinking about enrolling in an Online College to attain your paralegal education or would simply like to learn about some of the programs that they offer, feel free to visit the Distance Learning Directory at SchoolsGalore.com for more information.

?09/12/2006 ? Online Colleges - Raising the Bar in Paralegal Studies

By C. Bailey-Lloyd for Media Positive Communications, Inc., Managing Organization for SchoolsGalore.com

C. Bailey-Lloyd, Public Relations Director & Staff Writer for SchoolsGalore.com -- Your source of information for Distance Learning Online; Online Schools; and other Online Universities.

A Paralegal's Business Card Speaks Professionalism

A business card is a small "calling card" which advertises a business or service offered. Information found on a business card includes the business name, individual contact person, and various ways to contact the service provider, including address and telephone numbers. Today, business cards also include email addresses and web site information.

Paralegals communicate with many people. Often, an attorney's clients will stay in regular contact with his paralegal. This is because a legal assistant is generally more accessible than the attorney and can be depended on to route important information between the two.

When a paralegal meets with a new client to gather pertinent information it is usually the first contact that client has had with the firm and that employee. Handing them a business card at meeting's end is a professional touch. Clients appreciate having easy access to telephone numbers and even the paralegal's name. Often the circumstances that led them to an attorney's office are unsettling. They might not initially recall names easily, so a business card takes out the guess work. That business card is also a small, comforting link to the help they need.

I highly recommend that paralegals have their own business cards. These can be prepared by a printing company, or prepared on blank business cards and run through a laser printer. Another option if a boss would prefer their own business cards used by the paralegal ? prepare small mailing labels with the paralegal's name, direct phone extension and business email address, and affix the labels to the back of the firm cards. Typed information looks more professional than just writing it by hand.

A paralegal may have occasion during personal activities to hand out a business card or two. A friend or relative may need legal assistance. The firm employee may witness an accident. A conversation about needed services can crop up anywhere and any time. If a paralegal is equipped with business cards, professional networking is a breeze.

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

Laura McDonald is a paralegal, employed by Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C. 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.

The Lawyer's Secret Weapon - Paralegals

Efficient management of caseloads and staff is required for lawyers to fully utilize the potential of their practice. Paralegals can play a significant role to ensure this goal. The Department of Labor is projecting that paralegals will be among the fastest-growing professions in the economy by the year 2008.

Below are some of the benefits that attorneys and clients can experience from the employ of a good paralegal:

Benefits to Attorneys

Most legal firms are not streamlined in order to make optimum use of staff. Many lawyers are doing the same work that paralegals do. By allotting work to a paralegal, your own time can be utilized by handling those tasks that require your expertise. Instead of handling every last detail of each case (can you say micro-manage?), set up time each week/day to meet with your paralegal, so that they can bring you up to speed on each case they?re handling for you. The payoff? Increased income from the ability to handle more cases, and more time off, as your presence at the office isn?t required to get everything done.

Benefits to Your Clients

According to a study conducted by American Bar Association, 70% of people choose not to seek help from lawyers for their legal needs. Why? The high cost of legal services and the headaches of dealing with lawyers.

Why not use this information to your advantage by offering every client the services of your excellent paralegal staff?

Clients who retain you are seeking to rely on you and your staff. Clients are aware that your availability to them is costly. So delegate. When dealing with a paralegal, clients see up close how the appropriate time and attention has been given to their case. This helps clients feel confident about your firm?s legal services, and also helps to form a strong relationship between the client and your firm. Moreover, the paralegal?s close interaction with the client can help you understand all aspects of the case better. Without such personal attention, clients may feel overlooked and apprehensive about seeking your help with additional matters.

Benefits to the Paralegal

Paralegals, as evidenced by their choice of profession, enjoy challenging jobs. With increased interaction with you, a paralegal will be able to perform varied tasks, and decrease your workload substantially. According to a recent study by National Association of Legal Assistants, the tasks of assisting clients, drafting correspondence and pleadings, research, case management and document analysis are the aspects of the legal profession preferred by paralegals. Again, delegation makes sense, so that your expertise can be utilized for revenue production.

By taking advantage of the suggested benefits listed above, you can not only streamline your office, but you will also find that you have the time (and energy) required to look for new avenues of growth.

Jack McDonough is a Colorado CPA, speaker, coach, author, and consultant to professionals in the legal and accounting industries who desire to make more money while working less hours. Jack is President of Wealthy Professionals LLC. WealthyProfessionals.com

The Principal P's of a Paralegal Career

Being a paralegal, or legal assistant, is a fulfilling and challenging career. It can be rewarding. It can also be quite stressful. The four P?s will pave the way for a successful paralegal career. These are:

1. Punctuality. Ever notice how your stress level rises when you?re late for work or a meeting? You sit in traffic and the clock is ticking out a drumbeat in your head. By the time you get to work, you?re flustered and certainly not in the best mind frame to calmly begin your work tasks. Instead of this nerve-racking scenario, the practical, punctual paralegal plans on leaving for work 15 minutes earlier. This allows extra time for unforeseen circumstances to intrude but not alter one?s sense of serenity. I have a rule of thumb ? anticipate five irritations while driving to work and smile through them. If there?s more than five, well, maybe it?s time to pull off the road and let the maniacs go on ahead.

2. Patience. Be gentle with yourself. If you feel tenseness building, take deep, cleansing breaths, and several more as needed. Oxygen fills your lungs, your pulse lowers, and a feeling of peacefulness returns. Paralegals practice patience toward co-workers, clients, phone callers, anyone who may not quite have being gentle with themselves mastered yet.

3. Perseverance. A missing witness? Keep trying to locate him, and stop when you do. A file has disappeared? Search until it?s found and ask others for assistance. Feeling brain-dead while summarizing a very dry deposition transcript? Get up and stretch, look out a window for a few minutes while you feel yourself relaxing. Then don your determination again, and get back to the grind. Legal assistants who excel in their jobs are dedicated to completing tasks.

4. Pride. If you know you?re doing your best, you will feel proud of your accomplishments. Ensure your work product reflects positively on you and your boss. Every document going out of your office gauges quality; for professionals this is extremely important. Sloppy work does not go unnoticed. Check and then doublecheck your documents. Are they as clean and attractively presented as possible? If so, sit back and smile.

The above principal P?s for paralegals are, of course, only part of what highlight good skills. But they are very important. They also contribute to attaining satisfaction and pleasure in one?s position. Being good at your job AND enjoying it, what a great combination!

Laura McDonald is a paralegal. She has many years of experience in the areas of personal injury (accident related and medical malpractice), workers? compensation, civil litigation, family, environmental, and corporate law, estate planning, and bankruptcy. She is employed by Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C. in Frankfort, Kentucky. Her website is: http://www.paralegalsecretary.bravehost.com. Laura is available to encourage anyone interested in entering the paralegal field or seeking to improve related skills

How To Choose ABA Approved Online Paralegal Degree Programs - Part I

Paralegal Studies institutions approved by ABA (American Bar Association) all have the following characteristics .

Curriculum for Paralegals are usually ABA curriculum tailored towards providing you , after a successful completion of paralegal studies, the skills and opportunities of working as a lawyer's assistant in research, document preparation, client interviews and drafting of legal documents. As a qualified paralegal your services are also required in the legal departments of corporations, firms and organizations.

Another aspect of ABA approved Paralegal program is the pre-law specialization that prepares you for the law school proper.

ABA approved Paralegal institutions offer Associate of Applied Science, Post Degree Certificate, (only those who have already obtained a bachelor or associate degree are qualified). Bachelor of Science degree on Paralegal Studies and Certificate in Legal Nurse Consulting are two other programs offered by ABA approved paralegal study institutions.

ABA approved Paralegal institution's minimum course duration is 1 - 2 academic years and internship is mandatory in most schools.

If you are looking for ABA approved Paralegal Education Program, then the Standing Committee on Paralegals Directory of ABA approved Paralegal Education Programs is where to look.

Some work experience is usually beneficial for an intending paralegal student like you. Courses, depending on the type of institution, can run for between 2 (for community and junior colleges) to 4 years in a University. Aside from the general requirements above, the ABA Standing Committee Directory listing carry varying standard requirements for different instructions in terms of duration of course, course content and admission requirements.

Therefore, you should consider the factors favourable to you while choosing any particular school or institution.

More than 1000 institutions are offering Paralegal degree and certificate programs in the United States of America, but the ABA approved Paralegal institutions can be found at the ABA standing committee Directory of Paralegal schools.

NOTE: ABA approval for Paralegal schools or instructions is not mandatory by law so it is not a measure of the quality of or reputability of an institution that it is ABA approved, yet institutions have found it necessary to get ABA approval by meeting the ABA requirement in order to, I suppose, bluster their image. My advise is that you should go for ABA approved institutions for your paralegal studies.

Online institutions like their offline counterparts are of different categories and as such offer different qualities of course content programs. You should as a matter of fact take a critical look at the institution offering the Paralegal Degree Online program you chose. Carry out your investigation with the information below to ensure that such institution is an ABA approved paralegal degree online program.

INSIGHT INTO ABA ONLINE PARALEGAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

Paralegal degree programs prepares you for employment as a paralegal or legal assistant in a private law office and even both the public and the private sectors such as banking, insurance, real estate etc. Care must, however, be taken to ensure that a chosen school or online paralegal degree program is approved by the American Bar Association in conjunction with the institution being an institutional member of the American Association for Paralegal education (AAFPE) and other relevant regulatory bodies for Paralegal studies.

Concluding Part II will be on this same category soon.

Neshah, a retired paralegal, writes for your success - get free paralegal information and resources at http://online-paralegal-degree.fateback.com