Is it a good idea to get a paralegal certification while going to school for pre-law?
I am planning on majoring in pre-law /psychology but was interested in being a paralegal while trying to earn money for law school. #lawyer #paralegal
6 answers
Carolyn’s Answer
Becoming a paralegal can give you a boost in understanding the legal system. I did get a paralegal certification before I went to law school and that is the way that I put myself through law school. It helped me learn the terminology that you need to know in law school and it also exposed me to attorneys, legal secretaries and other legal professionals so that I got an idea of the job world that I would be entering when I finished law school. So the short answer is "yes it can help you" but I would also caution that you need to make sure that you are not taking on so much responsibility that you cannot devote the time that you need to your studies and to doing things that are enjoyable. If you work and study all the time without having any time to spend with friends and family you are going to burn out before you have a chance to meet your full potential. Make sure you have a well-rounded life during law school - law school is tough and demanding so you need to make sure you have a good support system - friends and family to give you a boost when law school and a job are both totally overwhelming. Good luck to you!!
Samantha Worthan
Samantha’s Answer
I wouldn't recommend getting your paralegal certificate in addition to your pre-law studies. The present marketplace doesn't have many entry level positions open. It would only take away time from your goal of becoming a lawyer. I would recommend networking with prominent attorneys in your area and shadowing them to determine which field of law you would like to specialize in. Paralegal work is driven by the amount of trials and mediations their attorneys have, which can lead to unpredictable schedules, or not a nine to five job.
Richard’s Answer
Kim’s Answer
Jordan,
First of all, congrats on trying to think through the options. If you think you could possibly "settle" for being "just" a paralegal, then yes, by all means, get the certificate. If you are bound and determined to become a lawyer, then, maybe still get it.
While the paralegal market might be somewhat oversaturated, the lawyer market is totally flooded out. MANY law school grads cannot find jobs, and they have thousands of dollars in loans to worry about. The paralegal education will give you a leg up on skills needed in law school, and, will teach you the practical skills needed to maneuver around a law office: electronic filing of cases, etc. Paralegals can, and often do, do everything a lawyer does, except set fees and give advice. Research, writing, interviewing witnesses, doing discovery, drafting deposition outlines, etc.
I do a little freelance work, and thoroughly enjoy it. As for salary, entry level is probably around $13 hr, in San Antonio. Dallas should be higher. There are all different types of positions. Because I specialize in obtaining govt records using the Public Information Act, I encounter many govt paralegals who prepare those documents. They earn somewhere around $45,000. So, if you can be willing to let someone else have the limelight, and you stay in the background making them look good, it might be worth considering.
And if you do, I'd encourage you to take an ABA approved program. Here is a link to those schools.
http://apps.americanbar.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/tx.html
Not all paralegal schools will give you a solid education. There are many who will take your money and give you a certificate, without teaching you much.
Best of luck!
PS: Many law schools will not allow you to work during your first year of school, if that is what you are planning to do.
Hannah’s Answer
If you are intending to go straight to law school from your pre-law studies, I wouldn't spend time getting the paralegal certificate. Attending law school is extremely time-consuming (especially the first year) and it is difficult to work much at all during that year. Once you've completed your first year of law school, many employers would consider hiring you for a legal assistant or law clerk position. Those roles would also give you exposure to working in the legal field, and would not require a paralegal certificate.
I became a paralegal after attending law school, passing the bar exam, and deciding I didn't want to be an attorney. I did not need to acquire any extra paralegal certificate to do so.
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
It can be a beneficial idea to pursue a paralegal certification while studying pre-law, as it can provide you with valuable practical experience in the legal field and enhance your understanding of legal processes. Here are some key points to consider when deciding whether to pursue a paralegal certification while studying pre-law:
Practical Experience: Obtaining a paralegal certification can give you hands-on experience working in a law office or legal environment. This practical experience can help you gain insight into the day-to-day operations of a law firm, understand legal procedures, and interact with clients and attorneys.
Skill Development: A paralegal certification program typically covers topics such as legal research, writing, case management, and ethics. These skills are valuable not only for a future career as a paralegal but also for law school and eventually practicing as an attorney.
Networking Opportunities: Working as a paralegal while studying pre-law can help you build professional connections within the legal industry. Networking with attorneys, paralegals, and other legal professionals can provide valuable mentorship, job opportunities, and insights into the legal profession.
Financial Benefits: Earning a paralegal certification and working as a paralegal part-time or full-time while studying pre-law can help you earn money to support your education and future law school expenses. It can also give you financial independence and reduce the burden of student loans.
Time Management: It is important to consider how balancing a paralegal job with your pre-law studies will impact your time management skills. Make sure to assess whether you can handle the workload effectively without compromising your academic performance.
Career Goals: Consider how working as a paralegal aligns with your long-term career goals. While gaining practical experience in the legal field is valuable, ensure that it complements your aspirations of becoming an attorney and enhances your overall skill set.
In conclusion, pursuing a paralegal certification while studying pre-law can be a strategic decision that offers practical experience, skill development, networking opportunities, financial benefits, and time management challenges. However, it is essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons based on your individual circumstances and career goals before making a decision.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Bar Association (ABA) - The ABA provides information on legal education, career paths in the legal profession, and standards for paralegal education programs.
National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) - The NFPA offers resources on paralegal certification programs, professional development opportunities, and industry trends.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS provides data on job outlook, salary information, and educational requirements for paralegals in the United States.
GOD BLESS!
James.