How to Become a Paralegal
Are you interested in a Paralegal career? Now is a great time to take the next step and further your education in this growing field. AW LAW LAW HOW TO BECOME A LAW LAW LAW PARALEGAL PARALEGAL EDUCATION • Complete a Paralegal program at a college to earn an associate's degree (1-2 years) The path to becoming a Paralegal Complete Paralegal certification (optional) • Complete on-the-job training with an employer Essential Paralegal Courses Legal Research and Writing Corporate Law Legal Practice Technology Obtain the necessary skills to analyze the facts in any given situation, conduct the requisite legal research, and produce a reasoned, comprehensible written memorandum. Examine the procedure and practical application of technology and digital information in a legal environment and in handling client evidence. Examine the formation, operation, and dissolution of the corporate entity. THE BASICS OF A PARALEGAL CAREER Where Do Paralegals Work? Important Qualities of a Paralegal Other Law Firms 11% • Computer skills Paralegals use computers for legal research and litigation support. • Interpersonal skills Paralegals spend most of their time working with clients and other professionals. • Organizational skills Paralegals are often responsible for many State and Local Government 9% 70% Federal Government 6% cases at a time. 4% Research skills Finance and Paralegals need good research and investigative skills to conduct legal research. Insurance Speaking and writing skills Paralegals must be able to document and present their information to attorneys. Job Duties of a Paralegal Help lawyers prepare for hearings, trials, closings, and meetings Investigate the facts Prepare written reports that attorneys use in determining how cases should be handled Organize, maintain, and track files of important case documents Prepare tax returns, establish trust funds, and plan estates Contract Assist with drafting documents and contracts CAREER OUTLOOK Paralegal Projected Employment from 2010 to 2020 2010 256,000 2020 302,900 Annual Salary as of 2012 Median Annual Wages in Industries Employing the Most Paralegals Top 10% Federal Executive Branch $75,410 $65,660 Top 25% Management of Companies and Enterprises $60,340 $60,520 Median 50% Local Government $46,990 $50,540 Bottom 25% Legal Services $36,460 $48,170 Bottom 10% State Government $29,420 $44,570 Top Paying States for Paralegals as of 2012 4. Oregon 5. New York Employment: 2,370 Annual Mean Wage: $54,460 Employment: 23,890 Annual Mean Wage: $53,570 2. California 3. New Jersey Employment: 28,500 Annual Mean Wage: $58,570 Employment: 7,010 Annual Mean Wage: $58,050 1. Washington, D.C. Employment: 6,520 Annual Mean Wage: $68,850 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics – www.bls.gov 1.800.FREMONT Los Angeles Campus Fremont College 3440 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90010 Cerritos Campus 18000 Studebaker Rd., Suite 900A Cerritos, CA 90703 (373.6668) www.fremont.edu An Innovator in Professional Education" LAW WA LA LAW LAW LAW LAW
How to Become a Paralegal
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