Distance Education Course in Paralegal

Paralegals are employed in the legal profession usually working very closely with lawyers to help prepare for trials, hearings and corporate meetings. Other job responsibilities may include investigating the facts of cases, identify appropriate laws, prepare legal argument, draft pleadings and motions to be filed with the courts, assist attorneys during trials, research legal articles and documents, obtain affidavits and other materials that may be needed for preparing a case. If you have an interest in law and would like to work within the legal system, you should consider distance education courses in paralegal.

Training and Qualifications

Today, there are an increasing number of online paralegal degrees available on the internet. Most paralegal have at least an associate degree from community college or a bachelor’s degree in addition to a certificate in paralegal studies. Paralegals that work in a specific area will specialize exclusively in that particular area such as real estate law or labor law. Paralegal graduating from an American Bar Association approved program will have better employment opportunities.

Qualities Paralegal Should Possess?

A few states have established ethical guidelines for paralegals to follow, however because paralegals frequently deal with the general public, you should possess certain qualities that are expected within the legal profession such as: excellent communication skills, good research and investigative skills, excellent oral and written skills, and strong organizational skills.

What Jobs can I get with Distance Courses in Paralegal?

This field is not limited to the legal system; paralegals can be found in almost any type of business. However, most paralegals are employed by law firms; others may work in corporate legal offices or in government offices such as, the U.S. Department of Justice or Federal Government. Some may also choose to own their own business contracting their services to attorneys or others in need of their services.

Employment Outlook for Paralegals

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment growth and competition for jobs is expected to continue as many people seek to go into this profession; experienced, formally trained paralegals should have the best employment opportunities. Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 28 percent between 2008 and 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Earnings

In May 2008, full-time paralegals earned around $46,120. The middle 50 percent earned between $36,080 and $59,310. The top 10 percent earned more than around $73,450, and the bottom 10 percent earned less than around $29,260 as reported by The United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, wages of paralegals vary greatly depending on education, training, experience, the type and size of employer, and the geographic location of the job. In general, paralegals that work for large law firms or in large metropolitan areas earn more than those who work for smaller firms or in less populated regions.