Accredited online paralegal programs give students the convenience of online education, combined with the rigorous standards of the paralegal degree or certificate. Most paralegals work in law offices, but other types of employers, in many cases, are starting to hire paralegals in place of attorneys. Students who graduate from these programs will be entering a competitive but fertile job market, with many opportunities for professional growth.
Paralegals, also called legal assistants, work for attorneys behind the scenes. A legal assistant may do research on legal articles, judicial decisions, and existing laws, to provide support to a case that a lawyer is arguing in court. Legal assistants may also draft important documents, such as contracts and separation agreements. In addition, legal assistants sometimes manage the law office as a whole, coordinating office activities and maintaining important financial records.
Online coursework consists of a variety of subjects. Many programs have core courses focusing on torts, contracts, legal research and writing, and professional ethics. Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas like criminal law, business law, or constitutional law. Many online degrees have accelerated or flexible schedules, allowing for quick or leisurely completion of degrees, depending on the needs of the student.
Most attorneys hire paralegals based on education, experience, and character. Education from a program approved by the American Bar Association will typically give legal assistants a competitive edge in the job market. Another strategy for getting a job is to specialize in a particular area of the law. Currently growing areas of specialization include intellectual property, health care, elder care, and environmental law.
Aspiring paralegals must decide between a four-year degree, a two-year degree, or a certificate. The certificate is the right choice for someone who already has a four-year degree in another area. The two-year degree will put a person into the job market more quickly. However, since pay is often based on education, the four-year degree will garner the highest pay.
The career prospects for paralegals are growing, but competition is fierce. While the field is expected to add nearly thirty percent more jobs over the next decade, the number of students earning paralegal degrees is also expected to grow. While law offices will still employ the majority of paralegals, opportunities may be found in corporate legal departments, banks, and insurance companies.
Paralegals should have high ethical standards. The job will involve doing a great deal of research, and quickly absorbing large quantities of information. As paralegals gain experience, they require less management, and are given more responsibility. Seasoned personnel may grow into supervisory positions with government agencies, commercial legal divisions, or large law offices.
In addition to earning their online degree, paralegals may want to consider a national certification, to enhance their job prospects. Organizations like the National Association of Legal Assistants, the American Alliance of Paralegals, and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, offer certification based on experience, examinations, and continuing education. For professionals looking to make a fresh start in the legal profession, online paralegal programs provide a flexible and high-quality learning experience.