answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

The following is written by and according to the U.S. Department of Labor and particular to the education and training required for paralegals.

Most entrants have an associate's degree in paralegal studies, or a bachelor's degree in another field and a certificate in paralegal studies. Some employers train paralegals on the job.

Education and training. There are several ways to become a paralegal. The most common is through a community college paralegal program that leads to an associate degree. Another common method of entry, mainly for those who already have a college degree, is earning a certificate in paralegal studies. A small number of schools offer bachelor's and master's degrees in paralegal studies. Finally, some employers train paralegals on the job.

Associate's and bachelor's degree programs usually combine paralegal training with courses in other academic subjects. Certificate programs vary significantly, with some taking only a few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees.

More than 1,000 colleges and universities, law schools, and proprietary schools offer formal paralegal training programs. Approximately 260 paralegal programs are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Although not required by many employers, graduation from an ABA-approved program can enhance employment opportunities. Admission requirements vary. Some schools require certain college courses or a bachelor's degree, while others accept high school graduates or those with legal experience. A few schools require standardized tests and personal interviews.

The quality of paralegal training programs varies; some programs may include job placement services. If possible, prospective students should examine the experiences of recent graduates before enrolling in a paralegal program. Training programs usually include courses in legal research and the legal applications of computers. Many paralegal training programs also offer an internship, in which students gain practical experience by working for several months in a private law firm, the office of a public defender or attorney general, a corporate legal department, a legal aid organization, a bank, or a government agency. Internship experience is a valuable asset in seeking a job after graduation.

Some employers train paralegals on the job, hiring college graduates with no legal experience or promoting experienced legal secretaries. Some entrants have experience in a technical field that is useful to law firms, such as a background in tax preparation or criminal justice. Nursing or health administration experience is valuable in personal-injury law practices.

Certification and other qualifications. Although most employers do not require certification, earning voluntary certification from a professional national or local paralegal organization may offer advantages in the labor market. Many national and local paralegal organizations offer voluntary paralegal certifications by requiring students to pass an exam. Other organizations offer voluntary paralegal certifications by meeting certain criteria such as experience and education.

The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), for example, has established standards for certification that require various combinations of education and experience. Paralegals who meet these standards are eligible to take a 2-day examination. Those who pass the exam may use the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) or Certified Paralegal (CP) credential. NALA certification is for a period of five years and 50 hours of continuing education is required for recertification. According to the NALA, as of September 4, 2009, there were 15,652 Certified Paralegals in the United States. NALA also offers the Advanced Paralegal Certification for experienced paralegals who want to specialize. The Advanced Paralegal Certification program is a curriculum-based program offered on the internet.

The American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc., offers the American Alliance Certified Paralegal (AACP) credential, a voluntary certification program. Paralegals seeking the AACP certification must possess at least 5 years of paralegal experience and meet one of three educational criteria. Certification must be renewed every 2 years, including the completion of 18 hours of continuing education.

In addition, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) offers the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation to paralegals with a bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience who pass an exam. To maintain the credential, workers must complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS) offers the Professional Paralegal (PP) certification to those who pass a four-part exam. Recertification requires 75 hours of continuing education.

Paralegals must be able to document and present their findings and opinions to their supervising attorney. They need to understand legal terminology and have good research and investigative skills. Familiarity with the operation and applications of computers in legal research and litigation support also is important. Paralegals should stay informed of new developments in the laws that affect their area of practice. Participation in continuing legal education seminars allows paralegals to maintain and expand their knowledge of the law. In fact, all paralegals in California must complete 4 hours of mandatory continuing education in either general law or a specialized area of law.

Because paralegals frequently deal with the public, they should be courteous and uphold the ethical standards of the legal profession. The NALA, the NFPA, and a few States have established ethical guidelines for paralegals to follow.

For the source and more detailed information concerning your request, click under the related links section (U.S. Department of Labor) indicated directly below this answer section.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How many classes for paralegal?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

Do they offer online classes to become a paralegal?

Yes, many schools and organizations offer online classes to become a paralegal. These programs typically cover topics such as legal research, writing, and ethics, and can help individuals develop the skills needed to work in the legal field. It's important to ensure that the program is accredited and meets the requirements for becoming a paralegal in your desired location.


What type of classes do I need for paralegal school online?

Paralegal classes are available online. You don't need any previous training to take paralegal classes online, but you will be learning how you can assist a legal lawyer with his work. Once you complete the school, you can become a certified paralegal.


Do community colleges offer paralegal courses?

Many community colleges do indeed offer paralegal courses. As this is a popular program some will even offer online paralegal classes as an alternative to classroom learning.


Is a college degree required to get a paralegal job?

A college degree is not required to get a paralegal job. A paralegal needs plenty of experience. It's also good for the paralegal to take some courses or classes.


Where could somebody apply to participate in online paralegal programs?

There are local colleges and universities that offer online classes for paralegal programs. There are several online colleges that also offer online classes.


What classes do you need to take in college to become and police officer?

Study law enforcement, legal and paralegal studies, stay fit by taking physical education classes also.


What are the steps to take to further on my career after being a paralegal?

You can take classes in different aspects of law at your local community college. : )


When your in second year of college is it possible to be a paralegal until your done with the rest of college?

Training as a paralegal may not help you get through college. If you work too many hours it's hard to finish your college coursework. But if you can find an employer who is willing to be flexible with your schedule so you can still take classes, it can work.


Where could one find paralegal advice online?

There are many websites online that offer paralegal advice. Among these is ParalegalAdvice which is a dedicated website that offers paralegal advice. They can also refer you to a paralegal advice institution near your location.


Where can one find qualifications to do paralegal work?

There are many places out there where one can qualify to do paralegal work. Consulting with someone who knows a lot about paralegal work would be a good idea.


What are the intials for a paralegal?

The initials for a paralegal are "P.L." which stands for paralegal.


What kind of classes are offered at the National College of Business and Technology?

The National College of Business and Technology offer several different classes including, but not limited to: Accounting, Business, Paralegal, Medical and Office Technology.