Legal Assistant or Paralegal

Job Summary:
Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, research and investigate facts for lawyers. They do almost everything that lawyers do, except give legal advice or present cases in court. Most of the job involves helping lawyers prepare for hearings, trials, and corporate meetings. They research and analyze legal data to find support for cases. They also check facts of cases and make sure there are no holes in the arguments they build. Paralegals prepare and organize the information they collect and then write a rough summary and argument for the lawyers to review. They prepare legal documents such as briefs and pleadings and file them with court clerks. Paralegals may also send subpoenas to witnesses so they will testify about certain facts. Depending on the firm paralegals work at, they may appraise and inventory property for estate planning, or manage real estate sales. They may answer questions about legal issues at civil hearings. Some paralegals may act as referees between the people who are selling property and the people who want to buy it. Once a sale is arranged, paralegals write out payment plans for clients.

Qualification:
To work as a paralegal, you must complete paralegal training, and have good communications skills. There are several ways to become a paralegal. You can qualify through work experience, training, or education. However, education is the preferred way because in a paralegal degree program you take courses on law and legal research techniques. You also learn about real estate, family law, contracts, and criminal law. Many programs also teach computer skills.

Salary Range:
Nationally, the median wage for paralegals is $3,060 per month ($17.63 per hour). Half of all paralegals earn between $2,420 and $3,890 per month ($13.98 and $22.42 per hour).

Wages vary by the paralegal's education, training, and experience. In general, the more education and training paralegals have, the higher their wages. The type and size of the employer and the area of the country also affect wages. Those who work for large firms in large cities generally earn the highest wages. Many paralegals also receive bonuses when cases are successful or the year has shown a profit.

Prospects:
Experienced paralegals may advance by working on more difficult cases. If they get a law degree, they can become law clerks or lawyers.