Paralegal training prepares students to work under the supervision of lawyers,
researching and preparing documents.
In the U.S., you can take a two-year associate's degree, a four-year
bachelor's degree or a shorter certificate if you already have previous education
or experience.
Meredith College in Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a post-bachelor's certificate
program. "It is a certificate program for college graduates who have previously
earned a four-year bachelor's degree in any major," says Page Midyette, director
of the program.
"It is in the continuing education division of the college and consists
of 260 classroom hours. Students can complete the certificate in two semesters
of evening classes, or in an intensive schedule where all courses are completed
in one semester."
In addition to the classroom work, her students are also urged to take
part in an eight-week internship program.
"The internship gives the student exposure to the law office environment
and the opportunity to observe and practice skills learned in the classroom."
Winona State University in Winona, Minnesota, offers a four-year bachelor
of science paralegal program. It emphasizes oral and written communication
skills, independent thinking and problem solving.
Students select one of three program options -- the business administration
option, which emphasizes business and commercial law; the sociology
option, which focuses on the areas of criminal and family law; or the multi-legal
option, which offers a broad variety of law-related courses.
Another way to study to become a paralegal is through distance learning.
However, some programs, such as those offered by the American Institute for
Paralegal Studies, do not cater to high school graduates. They try to attract
an older, working student, says institute spokesperson John Shaheen.
Potter says high school students should focus on courses that help develop
research, writing and critical thinking skills, such as English, social studies,
math, sciences and government.
Students looking into any legal assistant or paralegal course should ensure
the program follows guidelines and recommendations from the various national,
regional or local organizations, such as the American Bar Association or the
American Association for Paralegal Education.
It is not necessary that paralegals be certified, but the National Association
of Legal Assistants has established standards for voluntary certification.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field, see Paralegals and
Legal Assistants
Paralegal Resources
Check out articles and services for paralegals
Legal Assistants Association
Information for the novice and professional paralegal