Paralegals

[flyogagrl]

Ok, so I am considering going back to get get my paralegal cert at a ABA accredited school. For all those in the legal profession, do you really need a certification? For those who are paralegals, what is your day like?

[wordsmith]

Wasn't Jen looking into this?

I think requirements may vary by state.

[pisces2473]

Not anymore...see my rant thread.

[flyogagrl]

saw the rant thread, thats what made the question pop in my head.

[pisces2473]

Oh! LOL I don't know if the school I got into was ABA accredited. Probably not. Does the ABA accredit para. programs?

I got into the program but deferred for at least a year. It was 6 classes--3 required core and 3 electives.

Some jobs want certification, others don't. I suggest you look at job listings for paras. in your area and see what they want. Around here, most want them.

[Veruca]

Hello...I'm a lurker who hasn't posted in a while. I just wanted to share that I am currently in an ABA Paralegal Program getting my certificate. My program takes 10 months going 3 nights a week and I will finally be done next Thursday. I would recommend getting a certificate if you plan to work as a paralegal. I have learned so much in school that I think will put me ahead of someone who has no legal training. Although I may be eating my words if I don't find an entry level paralegal position soon.

[flyogagrl]

I worked in a expert witness referal company for 2 years and I really enjoyed it. Most of it was legal admin work. Now that I have gone back to Marketing (my previous field to working in legal) I really miss it. And am finding this marketing work not as interesting or rewarding.

[TKSJ]

I'm a paralegal that got my certificate from an ABA program about 18 months ago. I've spent a lot of time doing short-term jobs in different areas of law (through temping etc) in firms of various sizes. In my experience, the larger the firm, the more mundane stuff you are requiered to do (like review boxes of documents, or make binders and indexes). I've also worked in smaller firms, where there is only one or two attorneys, where I can do more research and writing in addition to the mundane stuff. All of my experiences have helped me learn things like customer service, office politics, client interaction, research skills, etc. so overall, it can be good. Just don't expect what you see on tv.

[bbygrand]

I have graduated from an ABA approved legal assistant program over a year ago and I don't regret it at all! It is one of the best things I have done for my career.


While I find that most legal assistant/paralegal jobs don't necessarily require you to be certificated, it definitely gives you an edge of over other candidates when applying for a job. Also, it shows the potential emloyer that you are dedicated and commited to working as a legal professional.

For my job search, I found that most employers value experience over education, but many of them are willing to train the right candidate, especially if they see you are committed to the profession. I think having a certificate will give you and your resume much more credibility and will open a lot more doors.