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How to Become a Paralegal: Essential Sk…

How to Become a Paralegal: Essential Skills and Steps

Are you fascinated by the intricacies of the law? Do you have a passion for research, an eye for detail, and a knack for problem-solving? If so, a career as a paralegal could be your key to entering the exciting world of the legal profession. Paralegals play a vital role in supporting attorneys, conducting research, drafting legal documents, and assisting clients.

If you want to become a paralegal, we’re here to take you through the essential steps, from education and skill-building to securing your first job.

What Does a Paralegal Do?

Paralegals assist lawyers with various legal tasks, helping to streamline the workflow and ensure the efficient operation of a legal practice. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the specific area of law and the needs of their employer, but here's a general overview of what paralegals do:

  • Legal Research. Paralegals conduct research on relevant laws, regulations, and legal precedents to assist attorneys in building cases, preparing legal strategies, and making informed decisions.
  • Document Preparation. They draft and prepare legal documents such as contracts, wills, pleadings, and motions. Paralegals also ensure that these documents are properly formatted, filed with the appropriate courts, and served to opposing parties.
  • Client Interaction. Paralegals often serve as a point of contact for clients, helping to gather information, schedule appointments, and provide updates on the progress of their cases.
  • Case Management. They assist in managing and organizing case files, maintaining calendars, and tracking important deadlines. This includes keeping records up-to-date and ensuring compliance with court rules.
  • Assisting in Trial Preparation. Paralegals help attorneys prepare for trial by organizing evidence, preparing trial exhibits, and coordinating witness interviews and depositions.

To become a good paralegal, you will need a diverse set of skills that are fundamental to the role. These include strong research skills, effective communication, attention to detail, organizational abilities, analytical thinking, proficiency in legal technology, ethical integrity, and adept time management.

Paralegals must efficiently navigate legal information, interact with clients and colleagues, handle complex documents and deadlines, provide valuable insights, utilize legal software, maintain ethical standards, and manage multiple cases effectively.

How to Become a Paralegal


Paralegals are often the backbone of law firms, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of legal practices. From conducting exhaustive legal research and drafting essential documents to managing complex case files and maintaining meticulous organization, this role demands significant dedication and thorough preparation. To become a paralegal, you will typically need to follow the steps listed below:

Complete Relevant Education


The most common way to become a paralegal is by attending a paralegal studies program. These programs offer certificates, associate's degrees, or bachelor's degrees in paralegal studies or related fields.

Here is a brief overview of these programs:

  • Certificate Programs. Certificate programs in paralegal studies are often the quickest path to becoming a paralegal. They are typically designed for those who already have a degree in another field and wish to transition into a paralegal career. These programs can usually be completed in a year or less.
  • Associate's Degrees. Associate's degree programs in paralegal studies are popular and provide a comprehensive foundation in legal concepts, research, and practical skills. They typically take around two years to complete and are suitable for individuals seeking a solid educational background in paralegal studies.
  • Bachelor's Degrees. Some paralegals pursue a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies or a related field, which offers a more in-depth and well-rounded education. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years to complete and may open up additional career opportunities and potential for advancement within the field.

The curricula of paralegal studies programs are comprehensive and designed to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of the legal profession. They typically encompass courses in legal research and writing, civil and criminal procedure, contract law, ethics, real estate law, family law, and more.

Students also learn to navigate legal technology and often gain practical experience through internships or externships.

Explore paralegal programs in our extensive database.

Consider a Specialization


Do you have a favorite area of law? Maybe you find fulfillment in supporting attorneys with intricate intellectual property cases, or you might discover a passion for delving into the complexities of environmental law matters. Specializing as a paralegal is a strategic move that not only enhances your career prospects but also allows you to dive deep into a specific area of law that genuinely interests you.

Some of the most popular and widely recognized specializations in the field to consider include:

  • Real Estate Law. Involves legal matters related to property transactions, leases, and title searches.
  • Family Law. Focuses on cases related to divorce, child custody, and support, as well as adoption and domestic disputes.
  • Criminal Law. Deals with legal issues surrounding criminal offenses, investigations, and trials.
  • Corporate Law. Addresses business-related matters, including mergers, acquisitions, and corporate compliance.
  • Immigration Law. Involves assisting with immigration-related cases, such as visas, green cards, and asylum claims.
  • Intellectual Property Law. Concerned with patents, trademarks, copyrights, and protecting intellectual property rights.
  • Estate Planning and Probate. Focuses on wills, trusts, and the legal aspects of estate management and distribution.
  • Labor and Employment Law. Deals with employment contracts, workplace disputes, and labor rights.
  • Personal Injury Law. Addresses cases related to accidents, injuries, and liability claims.

Gain Practical Experience Through an Internship


Gaining real-world experience through an internship is a must for future paralegals. It's the bridge that connects textbook knowledge to the exciting world of law. Internships provide a hands-on glimpse into the legal world, where you can turn classroom theories into practical skills. Plus, while interning, you can build meaningful relationships with legal pros that might just open doors to your dream job later on.

When it comes to timing, the ideal period for an internship can vary. Some choose to intern during their academic studies to gain experience progressively, while others opt for post-graduation internships to transition directly into a paralegal role. The key is to research potential employers, craft compelling applications, and leverage academic resources to find internships that align with career goals and specialization interests.

Obtain a Paralegal Certification (Optional)


Obtaining a paralegal certification, while optional, can significantly enhance your qualifications and career prospects in the legal field. To earn certification, you'll typically need to meet specific eligibility requirements, which may include a combination of education and work experience.

Preparation involves enrolling in a certification exam preparatory course or self-study program to ensure you're well-prepared for the rigorous examination. Upon successfully passing the exam, you'll earn your certification, which showcases your competence and commitment to excellence as a paralegal.

Here are some certifications worth considering for aspiring paralegals:

  • Certified Paralegal (CP) from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
  • Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
  • Professional Paralegal (PP) from the National Association for Legal Support Professionals (NALS)
  • Registered Paralegal (RP) from the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)

Build Your Resume & Start the Job Search


Building your resume and launching your job search is the culmination of your journey to become a paralegal. First, focus on crafting a standout resume highlighting your education, internship experience, specialized skills, and any relevant certifications. Tailor your resume to match the specific job you're applying for, emphasizing your qualifications in line with the employer's needs.

Next, leverage online job boards, career services at your educational institution, and legal industry networks to identify job openings. Prepare personalized cover letters for each application, showcasing your enthusiasm for the position and your alignment with the organization's values.

During interviews, emphasize your teamwork, research, and organizational skills, and be prepared to discuss your internship experiences. Networking remains crucial, so attend legal events, join professional associations, and connect with practicing paralegals to expand your opportunities. Stay persistent, and your efforts will lead to a rewarding paralegal position in your chosen specialization.

Paralegal Job Outlook & Salary

The future looks good for paralegals! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 4% job growth rate from 2022 to 2032, matching the average for all jobs. With a median annual pay of $59,200 and 38,000 projected job openings annually over the decade, becoming a paralegal can be a rewarding career choice.

While law firms continue to remain one of the main employers, big companies are also hiring in-house legal teams, which, in turn, is creating more varied job opportunities. You'll have a broader spectrum of workplaces to choose from, including industries like finance, tech, healthcare, and more. With the right education, skills, and dedication, aspiring paralegals can thrive in a dynamic legal landscape.