Paralegal Degrees and Careers
(found programs from 562 schools)

Lawyers would have a lot of trouble getting anything done without the help of a trusty paralegal. From conducting valuable research in legal cases to filling out and filing necessary paperwork, paralegals have a hand in almost every aspect of the justice system. Paralegals, sometimes referred to as legal assistants, can work in a variety of areas, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies.

Paralegal Job Description

No matter where a paralegal works, his or her duties will always be tailored to a single goal: serving as an invaluable support system for the lawyers he or she assists. A paralegal has to be able to multitask, as most paralegals have a lot of duties to juggle in any given day. At the beginning of a case, a paralegal’s work usually entails documenting and organizing the facts concerning the case and performing legal research. This research can later help lawyers determine how best to plead their client’s case. Paralegals are also responsible for writing legal correspondence. What’s more, the paralegal is usually responsible for keeping all of this important paperwork organized.

Paralegal Requirements

The paralegal profession takes dedication, pointed attention to detail and excellent research and writing skills – as well as basic legal knowledge. Although some paralegals enter the field with no formal training, most paralegals hold at least an associate degree in paralegal studies. Those looking to receive further training may also pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Paralegal training covers a huge range of material, from typing to legal research and documentation. In some cases a paralegal may also gain specialized training in a specific legal field, such as corporate or real estate law. While paralegal training is not always mandatory, it can be a huge help in finding a good job in the ever-competitive job market. Some paralegals may also choose to earn their official paralegal certification in order to improve job prospects.

Paralegal Career Outlook

The paralegal profession pays a median salary of $46,120, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS also reports a very positive career outlook for paralegals in the coming decade. At 28 percent, the expected rate-of-growth for paralegal jobs is much higher than the national average: a record-breaking 337,000-plus paralegals are expected to be employed in the country by 2018, up from 263,800 in 2008.

Paralegal Trends

CNN Money magazine has included paralegals multiple times in its annual survey of the best jobs in the US, including a 2009 list, in which corporate paralegal placed 36th out of 50 jobs.

Useful Paralegal Resource Links

• National Association of Legal Assistants
• American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc.
• National Association for Legal Professionals

Paralegal Degree Programs

Welcome to the most complete directory on the Web of Paralegal programs. It contains all the nationally accredited programs, from 562 schools across the country.

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