How To Become A Paralegal – Paralegal Academic Requirements

There are no specific academic requirements to become a paralegal. However, applicants with law degree or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies will surely be prioritized.

 The easiest and most common way to have educational qualification is to take up 2-year associate degree on paralegal studies. Those who already have bachelor’s degree on a different field may attend paralegal certification programs that usually take a few months. Some employers also provide on-the-job paralegal trainings for chosen applicants who are also degree holders on a different field.

 Although not required, applicants who have paralegal certifications are preferred by most employers. One can get a Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) certification by taking up a 2-day examination. Paralegals with bachelor’s degree and at least 2 years of paralegal experience can take the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam to earn a Registered Paralegal (RP) certification.

 There are more than enough paralegal organizations that offer certification programs one can take to spruce up one’s resume.

 Employers look more into paralegal skills and knowledge before considering an applicant. First and foremost, a paralegal needs to have an exquisite knowledge of the legal parlance.

 Excellent investigative and research skill is also a requirement since the job description entails retrieving data from various indexes such as law libraries, online archives, and most of the time, fieldworks. Having said that, a paralegal also needs to be computer and Internet-savvy to perform research duties in the office as the lawyer necessitates.

 Excellent written communication skills to document and present findings and draft legal documents are also needed. Oral communication skills have to be honed since paralegals may need to discuss findings with supervising attorneys, clients and other resource person.

 More than anything else, a paralegal must also abide with legal ethics and confidentiality standards as much as the lawyer does. Confidence, resourcefulness and perseverance are vital work attitude to make a career not only as paralegal, but in the field of law in general.