Exploring Specialized Fields Series, Part Three: Working as a Paralegal or Legal Secretary

As we continue this four-part series on specialized careers in the administrative field, we now examine the job of paralegals, also called legal secretaries.

A paralegal is someone who serves as a lawyer assistant, helping the lawyer to prepare for meetings or trials. The paralegal may be required to research facts and laws or write reports. This field is increasing because the job of a paralegal has expanded to include some duties which were traditionally handled by a junior lawyer of the firm.

Here are some things you should know:

• To work in this competitive job market as a paralegal, you may have an associate degree in paralegal studies. You could also have a bachelor's degree, coupled with a certificate in paralegal studies. These certifications and degrees are not required in most states, but they will increase your chances of being hired.
• About seven out of 10 paralegal jobs are found in law firms. Others work for corporate legal departments and government agencies.
• Employment is projected to grow by 22 percent between 2006 and 2016.

Earnings Potential

Although many paralegals work for law firms, others work in corporate law or governmental agencies. A trained paralegal can expect to earn an average of $33,000-$54,500 per year. However, salaries vary according to the type of job held. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor estimates the earnings of paralegals by industry are:

• Federal government: $56,080
• Management of companies and enterprises: $52,220
• Local government: $42,170
• Legal services: $41,460
• State government: $38,020

Bonuses may also be a source of income - in addition to full benefits - in most industries. Compared to other administrative positions, the compensation is very good. If you're looking to work as a paralegal, you should be aware that you may be required to work long hours with little or no notice. This is because the legal field is a fast-paced and rapidly changing work environment by nature. The needs of the client are often urgent.

Certification vs. an Associate or Bachelor's Degree

It's important to recognize what a certification really is. It doesn't mean that you have completed a degree such as an associate or bachelor's degree. Occasionally, paralegals call themselves "certified" by virtue of completing a paralegal training course or another type of preparatory education. Essentially, obtaining certification simply means that you've completed a paralegal training program.

You may not be required to have a certification to work as a paralegal, but it may help you find a job. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and similar organizations have established some criteria for certification. The certification credential will lend to your credibility, as it measures your ability to perform the job.

Breaking It Down

NALA offers the CLA/CP certification program. In order to earn the title of Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) or Certified Paralegal (CP), you must meet specific eligibility requirements and pass a rigorous exam. The CLA/CP examination process will assess your skills and knowledge in communications, ethics, legal research, judgment and analytical ability, and substantive law.

The CLA/CP credential signifies that a legal assistant is capable of providing superior services to firms and corporations. At presstime, the exam fee is payable to NALA for $25. Prior to taking an exam, you may wish to participate in a web-based seminar. Information about these classes is available on the NALA Campus website.

NALA also has a program called the Advanced Paralegal Certification, which was created to recognize paralegals with specialized knowledge. You can become certified in various areas, including contracts management, Social Security disability and trial practice. This year, NALA plans to add a course on personal injury and land use. The cost for this course is $250 for NALA members and $300 for nonmembers. You may take as many courses as you wish. You will also attend web classes on specified dates and times.

If you choose to attend a technical college, community college or take an online course, verify that your school or program is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This is very important because if the school is not accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, you cannot obtain financial aid.

The only legal agency offering accreditation that's recognized by the U.S. Department of Education is the American Bar Association (ABA). The ABA offers information on school accreditation on their website, although most of the schools are for aspiring lawyers. You shouldn't rule out law schools, however, because a few offer paralegal degrees.

For more information on how a school obtains accreditation, see my previous article on the topic.

Certification Programs

If you don't choose to attend a formal school or seek financial aid, any organization that offers certification is sufficient since it isn't required for most paralegal positions. Remember: In this case, you will not be able to obtain financial aid. Some employers will cover the cost of certification as a job benefit and for career development. When looking for jobs, ask about education-reimbursement programs for certification or formal education.

Since there are many certification programs to choose from, it can be quite confusing. (Note: For the best advice on which to choose, I recommend that you speak to your employer or other law professional, as my expertise is not in law.)

That said, here are some associations offering certifications. You should read their websites carefully to determine which will work for you:

• General information on a career as a paralegal can be obtained at: Standing Committee on Paralegals, American Bar Association.
• For information on the Certified Legal Assistant exam, schools that offer training programs in a specific state, and standards and guidelines for paralegals, contact: National Association of Legal Assistants Inc.
• Information on the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam, paralegal careers, paralegal training programs, job postings and local associations is available at: National Federation of Paralegal Associations.
• Information on paralegal training programs, including the pamphlet "How to Choose a Paralegal Education Program," may be obtained at: American Association for Paralegal Education.
• Information on paralegal careers, certification and job postings is available at: American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc.
• For information on the Professional Paralegal exam, schools that offer training programs in a specific state, and standards and guidelines for paralegals, contact: National Association of Legal Secretaries.

Up for Discussion

Are you a paralegal? If so, please share your expertise! Are you interested in the field? Ask questions to your fellow OA members who are working in the profession.