Online Paralegal Degree



             


Friday, May 2, 2008

Use A Paralegal Professional And Save Legal Fees

It is true to say that in the year 2007, the cost of legal aid has become so expensive that it is fast becoming out of the reach of most individuals and small businesses. This introduces significant problems to people and small companies which find themselves in the situation where they need to get expert legal advice. One option is the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) approach. This approach might work well when remodeling the house or servicing your car, but is fraught with dangers and difficulties when you need to deal with something as complex as the law. Getting it wrong can end up costing you, or your company, a lot of money. It can lead to bankruptcy, or worse still - a conviction and jail term.

Another solution is to use the services of those legal professionals who are not lawyers or attorneys but are still well trained in all aspects of law - the Paralegals. To enter the legal profession, paralegals undergo thorough training, often at law schools and universities, and need to register with various legal authorities who then issue them with a license permitting them to practice.

A common misconception is that you, the prospective client, cannot engage the services of a paralegal directly and need to first consult with lawyers or attorneys. This is just not true. There is nothing stopping you from seeking the assistance of a paralegal in the first instance.

Paralegals can do pretty much everything which attorneys and lawyers do except appearing in court and providing legal opinion. In fact when you engage the services of lawyers or attorneys, the chances are that they will have outsourced much of the research work to a paralegal anyway. Go direct to the paralegal and save!

As in the case of any legal professional consultation, the paralegal will meet with the client to conduct a preliminary interview. At the conclusion of this interview, the paralegal may decide that he/she is not suited to help you and would refer you to an attorney or lawyer for assistance. The very last thing a paralegal wants is to get into a situation where he can be sued by you for negligence. In this case it is best to cut your losses, pay the paralegal fee, and seek expert advice from a lawyer or attorney.

But if the paralegal decides that he can help you, you can be assured of getting expert legal advice for the fraction of the cost of the same advice from the more expensive lawyer or attorney.

Russell Clark is a freelance legal consultant. He owns and operates http://www.paralegal-course.com

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The Dawn Of Paralegal Ascendancy

Increasingly the Paralegal job is finding wider use in law and the judiciary all over the world. In the so called developed countries, Paralegals have been recognized as an important and integral part of both the law firms and the judiciary.

That took some time in coming; the roles of Paralegals have come to be accepted in the last two decades, with Universities and diverse institutions taking up the challenge of providing specialist training for Paralegals on different fields of human endeavour. To day, you can obtain both Paralegal certificates/degrees online on just about any field.

But in the so called developing countries, Paralegals are still seen as mere lawyer's secretaries and judiciary clerks even though they, in most cases without formal training, have learnt to carry out most of the duties of a lawyer, including conducting legal research, document preparation, client interviews and drafting of legal documents.

However, all that is changing or will begin to change after the epoch making contract between the Government of Indonesia and the European Commission for the latter to support the implementation of the Supreme Court's blue print for Reforms.

This is because among the number of interventions included in this program aimed at providing good governance; Paralegals are to play a major role, which has now necessitated a training program for Indonesians as paralegals for the sole purpose of providing Paralegals as first line legal personnel for improving public access to justice through first instance legal advice.

This is hoped to help improve the instructional capacity of the judiciary in Indonesia. So if you are an Indonesian, a qualified Paralegal, or you are interested in becoming a Paralegal, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for:

"The number of consultancy days is approximately 30 days."

Vacancies Contact: Please send CV and brief cover letter via email to: vacancies.ggij@yahoo.com. The subject line of the email should state the position code: IPBPE.C3. (Applicants please apply well before the closing date).

Neshah writes for your Success. Recommended: Online Paralegal Degree Success blog or Online Paralegal Degree Success Website, the road maps to successful online paralegal degree programs

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Thursday, May 1, 2008

Becoming A Paralegal - What You Need To Know About Legal Executive Jobs

hat Paralegals Do: While they may not be fully qualified solicitors, people in Paralegal jobs often are far more involved in the day to day details of legal cases. Their responsibilities can include preparing legal documents for solicitors and clients. Much of a Paralegal?s time will be spent carrying out research on cases which often includes interviewing clients and witnesses, as well as looking into similar legal cases.

Paralegals also spend a significant proportion of their time monitoring and attending court. As a right hand person to a solicitor they have the responsibility of helping them with the case and dealing with clients queries. The help and advice for clients can take place both in and outside court.

On top of these glamorous aspects of the job, Paralegals are often expected to carry out a wide range of and administrative and clerical responsibilities. Those who have the skills to combine the legal aspects of the job with a strong understanding of administration do really well as Paralegals.

What Skills Do Paralegals Need: Excellent written and spoken communication is vital if you want a Paralegal job. Like many other roles the ability to easily and clearly get your message a across over the phone, in person and via email is at a premium. Similarly the ability to deal with clients and colleagues patiently and with tact is valued highly.

As anyone who has dealt with legal cases will understand, anyone working in a legal job has to be able to take on board and understand complicated information. This is more difficult than it sounds though a systematic organized person should be okay.

Also the ability to work to tight deadlines and under pressure can often come in handy for any aspiring Paralegals.

What Qualifications Does a Paralegal Need: Anyone thinking of applying for a paralegal job will need some relevant law experience. Often Law Graduates apply for paralegal jobs after graduating from university. Similarly the job often appeals for those qualified with an HNC or HND in Law or Legal Studies. However a lack of an education in law needn?t prevent you from applying. If you have had some relevant law experience you maybe able to apply and study for a paralegal qualification from the Institute of Legal Executives (ILEX) Paralegal Programmes, or the National Association of Licensed Paralegals.

The job of a paralegal has great prospects and opportunities for a driven individual with a good understanding of the law with a disciplined attitude to organization. So if you fit the bill it?s work tracking a Paralegal job down.

Robert Proctor is part of Legal Week Jobs, a website specialising in jobs in law including gradute, legal secretary, solicitor & paralegal jobshttp://www.legalweek.com/jobs

For more information please visit

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Saturday, March 29, 2008

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

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Monday, March 24, 2008

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

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Friday, January 11, 2008

How Does An Online Paralegal School Work?

When choosing to pursue a career as a paralegal online, it is important to understand how online paralegal schools work. In this article I will go over this in detail.

There are few prerequisites needed for admission to an online paralegal school. You will need to have at least a highschool diploma or an equivalent, and having work experience or other training will help, but is not necessary.

Some schools will require potential students to list their work experience and education so they can better provide them with classes that are varied. Paralegal schools will not reject applications if you do not have enough work experience or education requirements other than those listed above.

Some online paralegal schools will give students trial class options in which they are allowed to take the first course as a trial. By taking this course, you will get a fundamental understanding of what it means to be a paralegal and the type of work you will have to do in this field.

You will also get a feel for the learning environment of the online program. Once you have tried this course, you can then decide if the program is good for you and if you wish to continue. If you feel after this that online learning is not for you, you are free to cancel.

Most online paralegal programs will give you credits for this course if you complete it and wish to continue. At this point you may be enrolled in the paralegal certificate program, in which you can become certified as a paralegal in as little as seven to ten months, depending on the program.

Some intensive online programs allow you to become certified as a paralegal in as little as six weeks. Those who want to further their education and specialize in specific areas can choose to take even more classes. To apply for a paralegal program, you will probably have to fill out online forms and submit it to the program administrator, or you will need to simply call.

In order to graduate, some programs will require you to take what is called the Certified Legal Assistant Exam. To be allowed to take this exam you may be required to have a certain number of hours of education and training. Upon completion of this exam you will be qualified to become employed as a paralegal.

After applying for an online paralegal program, you will be mailed or emailed a letter of acceptance or denial. It will provide you with instructions on how to enroll in your classes, and how to make payments. A student coordinator will assist you with payment processing. Once you have made your payments, your books will be sent to you, and you can begin your classes.

Mansi gupta recommends that you visit online paralegal school for more information.

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Thursday, December 20, 2007

What Can You Expect If You Land A Paralegal Job

Paralegals work in a wide variety of areas – from law firms to government offices, from trade unions to the armed forces, construction companies, accounting and engineering firms – in fact, anywhere that law-related work is performed, paralegals will almost certainly be employed. Paralegals working in the private sector are commonly employed by law firms and corporations. In large commercial law firms, a paralegal will assist with legal transaction or litigation cases, where they are responsible for organizing, copying, and tracking legal documents. Paralegals may be involved in specialized areas of the law, such as conveyancing, probate, matrimonial law or family law. A paralegal working in commerce may work in a variety of fields such as in the financial sector, banks, building societies or insurance companies. In the public sector, paralegals are employed by non-profit public law firms, government departments, local authorities, health care authorities, and the Police or Social Services. The duties of the paralegal will vary according to where they work. For example, in public sector, paralegals are more likely to be called upon to give advice to the public or work with clients in some fashion.

No matter where a paralegal works, there are several qualities and skills which a good paralegal will have. A paralegal should have excellent language, organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work concurrently on a variety of tasks. They should be able to work accurately and attentively, be able to work independently, and have the ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines. Good technical knowledge is also a must, as the use of computers, software packages and databases have become central to the storage and organization of legal documents. Paralegals may be required to organize information in databases, use software to track time billed to clients, or use software packages to compute financial information. A good paralegal will also be courteous, professional, and discreet, and have high ethical standards.

At the moment, the profession of paralegal is unregulated in the UK, and there is no commonly accepted or recognized way in which you can become a paralegal. Strictly speaking, you don’t need any formal qualifications, but of course they do help, especially if you don’t have much work experience. Many young Law graduates work as paralegals for a time, to gain some experience, with the hope of being offered a training contract. Alternatively, some paralegals working in specific law fields have other specialist education – for example, a paralegal working in commerce may have been educated as an accountant or have previously worked in tax preparation before becoming a paralegal.

Robert Proctor is part of Legal Week Jobs, a website specialising in legal jobs and recruitment including gradute, legal secretary, solicitor & paralegal jobs.

For more information please visit http://www.legalweekjobs.com

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