Post Bacc Programs in Paralegal
Paralegals are legal assistants who help lawyers in various tasks. Conducting legal research, organizing and maintaining files and drafting documents are some of the responsibilities of paralegals. Jobs for paralegals are predicted to grow by 18% from 2010 to 2020. This profession has been stated as being one of the best jobs in the country, according to CNN's Money Magazine. So if you want to start a career in law, consider becoming a paralegal first.
Education
A variety of programs are available for the ones who want to pursue a career as a paralegal. Students can enroll in the associate or bachelor's degree in paralegal studies. Certificate programs are also available in this area of study. The curriculum in the paralegal programs includes topics such as legal research and the legal applications of computers. Students can also opt to specialize in a particular field of law such as criminal law, family law, intellectual property and real estate.
The paralegal degrees entail both theory and practical training. Students are required to complete an internship program in addition to classroom instruction to get hands-on experience in the field. This will be invaluable for them in applying for jobs in private legal firms or government agencies.
Post Bacc Programs in Paralegal
The post bacc programs in paralegal are designed for students who have an undergraduate degree in law related field and wish to continue their education. These programs help students develop the technical skills and specialized knowledge to work under the supervision of attorneys in a variety of legal service settings.
Students who complete a post bacc program in paralegal will be able to produce excellent university-level written documents and oral reports. They will also learn to interpret and apply legal terminology and foundational principles of substantive and procedural law. In addition, these programs provide students with the skills to prepare legal investigation/discovery plans.
Pursuing the advanced programs in paralegal studies can be useful in the competitive job market. These programs also help professionals stay updated with the latest changes in this field. Paralegals with advanced credentials can find the best prospects.
Online Programs
The distance learning schools also offer post bacc programs and other degree and certificate programs in paralegal studies. These programs can be useful for working professionals seeking advanced credentials. Fflexible learning schedules and affordability are some of the benefits of the online programs. Online paralegal programs can also be a good option for those who want to switch careers without making major changes to their routine. But students who want to study remotely must be well-organized in order to manage their coursework effectively.
Employment Opportunities for Paralegals
A career in the field of law as a paralegal can be quite rewarding, as jobs for these legal professionals are expected to grow about as fast as the average of other occupations. Paralegals can work in various settings such as law firms, consulting firms, government agencies, or corporations.
Paralegals can make between $29,000 and $74,000 on an annual basis. Their compensation is subject to qualification, experience, area of expertise and location. Most paralegals work full- time and long hours are common.