Beware Of Diploma Mills - If You Are Interested In Studying A Paralegal Course Online

If you are looking for an online paralegal course, you must have decided to finally give your career a boost or you're a fresher who has interest in becoming a Paralegal.

If you have been working and decide to up your career by returning to school to earn your paralegal degree online, then you must be careful not to make the mistakes most people in your shoes readily make.

It's important that you carefully seek out your options before entrusting yourself to an online college or university; most of them are mere diploma mills.

Of course there are several advantages in doing an online paralegal degree program. Below are some of the advantages:

• An online course allows you to continue to work while studying.
• You also have the advantage of studying at your own time and pace
• Fees for online paralegal course may be paid in modules.
• Your degree is not inferior to degrees from conventional Universities

However, as said earlier, you must ensure that you choose your online institution or University right. The best online institutions are, usually accredited Paralegal institutions are members of National Paralegal Associations, especially online institutions that run American Bar Association approved Paralegal courses. Yes, those are the ones that should catch yours eyes as you search for your ideal Paralegal institution online.

After you have picked a desirable online paralegal institution, you can source for a financial aid package, such as Stafford Loans or Perkins Loans, for your Paralegal course program.

Let me emphasis this:

No degree is worth the paper on which it is printed if the holder is unable to discharge responsibilities expected from the holder of such a qualification. And there is no way you can justify your degree if you were not a diligent student, so, if you are prepared to advance your career or pick a Paralegal career, work your course to equip your self for the challenges of a Paralegal job. It is a challenging job, but the reward is huge.

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

Get Your Online Paralegal Education From The Center For Legal Studies

The Center for Legal Studies (CLS) started offering legal training in 1980 and have helped thousands of students from over 1000 colleges and universities across the country. It is one of the oldest and most respected law-related training centers in the country.

CLS offers online training for the following qualifications: Legal Secretary Certificate Course, Paralegal Certificate Course, Advanced Paralegal Certificate Course, Legal Investigation Certificate Course, Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate Course and Law School Preparation Course.

The Paralegal Certificate Course is the foundation on which the CLS syllabus is built. It is a practical paralegal education and is among the top 20 courses in one of the fastest growing occupations.

The Advance Paralegal Certificate course builds on the bases of the first paralegal course. This comprehensive training course was designed to fullfil the standards set by the California Commerce and Professional Code 6450.

The Legal Secretary Certificate is meant to help new and veteran secretaries to be able to perform efficiently in a law office. This training class covers a wide variety of secretarial duties, and also legal aspects, like ethics, terminologies, processes and jurisdiction. The secretarial aspects cover among others records organization, legal research, memoranda preparation, time management and filing procedures.

After completing the Legal Investigation Certificate Course the student will be able to assist attorneys, paralegals, insurance companies and private businesses, as well as state and federal government agencies, in the process of civil and criminal investigation. The course also covers how to create a freelance investigation business.

The Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate Course teaches the students participate in conflict mediation processes. The course covers both traditional and non-traditional dispute resolution options.

As the name suggests the Law School Preparation Course is to prepare students that are interested in going to law school or anyone considering a course in law. Over the last 27 years Professor Scott Hatch, JD, has worked to demystify the study of law. This class will teach you why law studies is different from studying any other discipline.

Ian Callis is a writer and website publisher, including the website called education in vital where you can find information and news about several aspects of education among which the section about online education. Please visit us at educationisvital.com

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

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

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.

What Do I Need To Take A Online Paralegal Course?

When you choose to take an online paralegal course, it is important to understand the things you will need prior to taking the classes. It is helpful to have an understanding of the field itself.

Paralegals are assistants who carry out some of the duties of lawyers. They are typically highered by law firms or federal agencies, and assist in legal work. When taking an online course, most online programs require you to have at least a high school diploma an equivalent.

A paralegal online course will require students to read extensive amounts of information. When students graduate and begin work in the field, they are also expected to do a lot of research. It is important for you to have comprehensive reading skills when going into this type of online program.

You will need to be able to rapidly process data and understand the information that is presented to you. There are no formal requirements you need to have in order to begin taking online courses other than a high school diploma.

Most of the skills you will need to be employed as a paralegal will be taught to you when you take the course. You will need to have an interest and understanding of the American legal system. You will need to understand how to follow directions, and how to perform procedures.

If you are hands on type of person, taking an online course as a paralegal may not be the best option for you. Paralegals spend long hours pouring over documents or sitting in front of computer screens. This may be difficult for people who like to be more active.

When taking an online paralegal course, it is important to have excellent communication skills. Students who graduate and work in the field will be required to conduct interviews with clients. This requires students to be able to effectively communicate and get their thoughts across.

Paralegals also work with foreclosures and immigration issues. They review foreclosure documents related to all owners and lien holders of the property. When dealing with immigration issues, they communicate information between the clients and lawyers.

It is also important to understand how to prepare documents. This is a skill that students will be taught when taking online paralegal courses. Paralegals also deal with bankruptcies, and will interview clients and prepare documents.

Paralegals also review documents for corporations. To do this one needs to be able to quickly read and comprehend documents. Paralegals also work in collections, drafting documents and sending letters of demand to people who owe debts.

Paralegals also deal with family law, and may accompany lawyers to interviews with clients. Paralegals must be able to identify any legal problems that may arise and obtain background information on the clients. Very few requirements are needed to take online paralegal courses.

Mansi gupta recommends that you visit online paralegal course for more information

Now is the Time to Become a Paralegal

 

Are you interested in legal work, but not law school? You might want to consider a paralegal degree. Attorneys are ultimately responsibility for the legal services they provide their clients; paralegals – also known as legal assistants – help attorneys in almost every aspect of their work. Being one of the fastest growing careers nationwide, those with paralegal training will be able to find jobs in every part of the country.

The American Bar Association (ABA) defines the role of a paralegal or legal assistant as an individual that is capable by education, training or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.

Paralegals provide valuable assistance to attorneys by helping them prepare for closings, hearing, trials and corporate meetings. Paralegals also assist attorneys at trials, draft contracts and agreements, and assist in estate planning. The valuable employees also maintain office financial records, and coordinate the activities of law office employees. Their duties can also include researching legal documents, finding witnesses, getting affidavits, and tracking case files. Depending on where you choose to work, your paralegal duties can vary widely.

The most common paralegal programs are associate’s degree programs offered at community colleges or specialized schools. These are generally 2-year programs. There are also certificate programs and online paralegal programs. Certificate programs are an equally popular paralegal training option. Most certificate programs are intended for students who have an associates or bachelor’s degree. Some certificate programs only call for a high school diploma or GED for admission. Certificate programs are generally completed in several months. There are also a small number of schools that offer 4-year bachelors and/or master’s degrees in paralegal studies.

Paralegal degree and certificate programs usually include courses that introduce students to law and legal research methods. Some students might choose to study a specialized legal area such as probate or real estate. Paralegals in small to medium-size law firms typically carry out duties that require general law comprehension. Paralegals employed by large law firms, government agencies, and corporations, are generally likely to be specialized. The legal assistant/paralegal occupation is expected to grow by 33% during the first 10 years of 2000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With projections of growth, now is a good time to earn your paralegal degree.

Melissa Steele, College Degrees @ EducationGuys.com