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....

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

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.

Paralegal provides detailed information on Paralegal, Paralegal Jobs, Paralegal Schools, Paralegal Training and more. Paralegal is affiliated with Notary Public Supplies

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.

Paralegal provides detailed information on Paralegal, Paralegal Jobs, Paralegal Schools, Paralegal Training and more. Paralegal is affiliated with Notary Public Supplies

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.

Paralegal provides detailed information on Paralegal, Paralegal Jobs, Paralegal Schools, Paralegal Training and more. Paralegal is affiliated with Notary Public Supplies

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....

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.

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.

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

Facts And Insights Of California Paralegal

There are currently no California laws that govern the licensing of California paralegals. But in an effort to standardize more the parameters of a paralegal work from the legal viewpoint, the California Alliance of Paralegal Associations (CAPA) promulgated during the year 2000 legislative session a legislation that aimed to do just that. This legislation was called the Assembly Bill (A.B.) 1761, the pertinent portion of which provides for a definition of the term paralegal.

Strongly promoted as a consumer protection measure, A.B. 1761 was considered to be a dream bill. The reason behind this law on California paralegals is to differentiate traditional paralegals from those who work independent of lawyer or attorney direction.

In order to protect the public from con artists and other disreputable individuals who prey upon unsuspecting persons seeking alternatives to attorney-provided legal services, A.B. 1761 sets forth some stringent measures and restrictions on a paralegal scope of responsibility.

Before the passage of A.B. 1761, the only legislation on California paralegals set forth a few requirements for paralegals who directly serve the public. One of the stipulations provided that such California paralegals could no longer call themselves as paralegals but, instead, must be named legal document assistants (LDAs).

Directives seeking to implement such legislation additionally provide that California paralegals or LDAs must post a bond in each country where they work. Penalties for LDAs who cross over the line into the unauthorized practice of law were also imposed.

With the passage of A.B. 1761 and upon its signing into law as Sections 6450, et. Seq., of the California State Business and Professions Code, more aspects of the field of California paralegal profession are covered.

For instance, California paralegals who violate the laws could face stiff fines and/or jail time. The duties that a California paralegal could perform were also narrowly defined. Other aspects that were directly addressed by A.B. 1761 include the following:

* Continuing Education Programs for California Paralegals to be provided only by either the state bar or by state bar-approved providers * Legal disputes with a California paralegal attorney fees are only awarded to prevailing plaintiff, i.e., a paralegal would never receive attorney fees even if he prevails in court * Educational standards California paralegals are now required to maintain extensive educational and continuing education records

No sooner than six weeks after the Business and Professions Code sections 6450, et seq., went into effect that a new bill was introduced by a Sacramento law firm, seeking to clarify the allowable tasks that a California paralegal may perform. The bill includes the following language: Paralegal means a person who holds him or herself out to be a paralegal, who is qualified by education, training, or work experience.

Read More On Facts And Insights Of California Paralegal

Important Points To Note For An Independent Paralegal

Despite the ever-increasing demand for legal services that far exceeds that which lawyers can provide, paralegals have their work cut out for them. Why? Because lawyers have always been firmly in charge and paralegals, whose work encompasses most of a lawyers duties, are naturally perceived as competition. More so with independent paralegals, who work without direct supervision from an attorney at law.

What is an Independent Paralegal?

An independent paralegal is called such precisely because he is independent of lawyer supervision. As a freelancer, the independent paralegal can expect his job to require a lot of tenacity, determination, thick skin, business knowledge and the means to sustain himself while still starting.

Nature of the Work

If you plan on becoming an independent paralegal yourself, then be prepared to do not only a paralegals job but also the responsibilities of a business owner, such as running a business and having assets, liabilities, insurance, employees, payroll, among others.

Those who are only starting a paralegal career are not advised to go immediately into independent paralegal work. Thats because, by its very nature, the paralegal profession requires extensive knowledge about substantive and procedural law, legal concepts, and other pertinent portions of the legal system. Someone who has no previous experience in paralegal work will have a hard time keeping up with all the challenges and changes going on.

Working on your own requires that you are already seasoned in paralegal work in the sense that you have good working knowledge of the nuances of the job, including knowledge of the law, office procedure and law office management.

The Drawbacks

One of the major drawbacks of working as an independent paralegal is the isolation you might feel. This is especially true if you came from a large office. You may find it an extremely novel experience working alone for the first time. Where before you had the advantage of that big law library in your office, now you will have to deal with whatever changes going on, such as rule changes, changes in legislation and changes in case law, on your own.

Another drawback is the fact that you are your own boss now, which means that if you want to earn more money, then you would have to put in more hours of work. Also, the lack of benefits could be discouraging no health insurance, vacation time or sick days.

The Advantages

While there are indeed many drawbacks to working as an independent paralegal, there are also several advantages. In the case of isolation in your work, this only occurs in the beginning. As you grow, you may find yourself hiring more people to work for you, from legal secretaries to law office clerks, office managers, and the like.

The lack of library resources can also be recompensed with todays Internet technology. Plus, there is nothing comparable to that feeling of owning a business which you made successful through your own efforts.

Read More On Independent Paralegal or click http://onlineparalegaltraininghomestudy.com/

Basic Practical Steps On How To Become A Paralegal

The paralegal profession is not for everyone who would want to join it. It is a profession suitable only for those people who are willing to undergo a lot of pressure in their work. Yes, a college degree and decent grades make you qualified to be an entry level paralegal. But the question is: will you survive the job? So if you are one of those who are determined to be in this profession, here are some practical tips on how to become a paralegal:

1. Make sure you really want to be a Paralegal. It is not enough that you find the term paralegal appealing and nice to hear. The work and duties of a paralegal appealing they may be, could also be chaotic as one goes through volumes of paper and documentation most of the day. As a paralegal, majority of your working hours is spent in performing administrative tasks such as filing, retrieving and organizing documents, photocopying and endless numbering of many pages. Definitely a daunting task if one is not trained properly. The expected duties of a paralegal will depend on the legal needs and situation of the employer. There are times that when taking a break from hole punching, you may get to participate in more spectacular task of interviewing witnesses on a certain case. If it still sounds appealing for you then you may continue reading the practical steps on how to become a paralegal.

2. Obtain a paralegal education. Obtaining a paralegal education is the basic foundation on how to become a paralegal. As of today, there are various institutions that offer education programs for those who want to work as a paralegal. The most common programs are Associate Degree Programs, Bachelor Degree Programs, Certificate Programs and Masters Degree Programs. There are also free online programs on how to become a paralegal. In addition, you could also purchase books on how to become a paralegal, usually advertised on the internet

3. Prepare your comprehensive resume and cover letter. The cover letter and resume you would need to apply as paralegals are no different than ones you would use for any job. One should never take for granted the construction of his resume because a resume should reflect ones strength and skills, even personality. For guide, the format of resume must catch the attention of the reader.

4. Find your ideal place of work. . After you have prepared your resume and you think that youre now ready to enter the field of paralegals, give some thought on where you will apply. You could always search the internet for some places of paralegal employment. Once you have a deeper understanding on the different facets of the paralegal world, you are then able to move ahead in the right direction.

Read More On How to become a Paralegal or http://onlineparalegaltraininghomestudy.com

Choosing the Right Paralegal Courses

 Paralegals typically have a bachelor?s degree to help them professionally assist lawyers or corporations and government agencies dealing with the law. Paralegals help lawyers navigate the large amounts of paperwork generated in legal proceedings by indexing, photocopying, and filing. Paralegals also may hold hearings or interview witnesses. A job as a paralegal may help a recent college graduate get into law school, it may help a professional make connections and gain experience to enter law, business, or government, or it may be a rewarding career in itself.

In 2001, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) estimated that 84 percent of paralegals had formal paralegal education beyond an associate?s or bachelor?s degree. Numerous courses exist to help paralegals advance their careers.

Before choosing any program, however, the NFPA urges paralegals to critically evaluate the program. Make certain the program is approved by the American Bar Association. The NFPA provides a list, for a small fee, of accredited paralegal training programs. Online directories can also help a paralegal find a program, either online or at a local college or university.

Many of these paralegal programs are also online. A quick search on the Internet reveals several online paralegal courses. Kaplan University, Keiser College, Saint Leo University, the University of Phoenix Online, and Berkeley College all offer online paralegal education programs. Online schools can lead to paralegal certificates, paralegal associate degrees, paralegal bachelor?s degrees, or law certificates. Online courses let paralegals learn, for the most part, at their own pace.

Online introductory courses prepare a paralegal for the legal environment. More advanced studies allow paralegals to learn about management, or specialize in fields like civil litigation, criminal law, or business contracts. Online courses may also boost the career of an experienced paralegal who does not have a bachelor?s degree.

Online courses allow paralegals to learn more and specialize, opening the door to more opportunities for advancement in this rapidly growing field.
 

Taking Online Paralegal Courses To New Heights

A paralegal is an assistant to an attorney. This person participates in a number of activities that involve legal cases including researching case law, prepare pleadings, and assist in arguments. Becoming a paralegal is a highly lucrative position. Most paralegals work in law firms and are very well paid. It is also a great stepping stone if you are interested in becoming a lawyer. In order to be a paralegal, you must have an associated degree in paralegal studies. Online paralegal courses can help you attain that degree.

Many people who are already in the work force can not afford the time it takes to go to traditional colleges. Opting for online paralegal courses, though, will help resolve that problem by allowing you to work from the comfort of your own home and set your own schedule. This is a very convenient option for working parents or those who already have professional obligations. Anyone who has time restrictions will benefit from this.

Online paralegal courses will give a basis in understanding the law and the functions of a law office. Courses may include contract law, litigation, real estate law, research and criminal law. These courses will give the student the basis to be able to successfully work in and participate in a law firm or legal division within a company. Paralegals are highly valued employees who do a lot of the legal work in a case. With today?s increasingly litigious society, the need for paralegals is on the rise. As cases increase, so does the need for attorneys and assistants. Paralegals earn on average, $40,000 per year and can increase with experience. Therefore, getting a paralegal degree is a valuable investment into your future.

Taking online paralegal courses does not need to be expensive. Generally, you only pay for the classes as you take them. Online paralegal courses are also less expensive than traditional courses because there is no need for a formal classroom setting or dedicated teacher with student to teacher ratio restrictions. The savings for this is passed through to the student. Also, because it is only necessary to have an associate?s degree to become a paralegal, the degree can be obtained faster and cheaper than a bachelor?s degree. If you still have budget concerns, most programs will offer financial aid. This can be in the form of student loans that do not have to be paid until the degree is completed or grants that never need to be paid off. Check with your school?s financial assistance department for options.

The need for paralegals is on the rise. It is a great time to get into this field as there are many available jobs that pay well. The average salary of a paralegal is high and the additional earning potential is also high. It is estimated that this particular filed will grow at an above average rate over the next several years. Getting a degree will give you an advantage over the competition and help you land a very lucrative job. The convenience of online paralegal courses will help you attain your goal quickly and affordably.
College Reviews makes it easy to get information sent to you via mail so that you can make a choice as to which school is right for you. If you would like more information for Online Paralegal Courses visit our site.

A Paralegal Career is 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....

http://www.paralegalsecretary.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.