What do I need to have to become a Paralegal?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n <\/strong>What you need in order to serve as a paralegal depends on which state you are currently residing in. Most of the states do not really have a set of specific education required to become one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, you can also enroll in a course to gain more paralegal knowledge. Amazingly enough, you can easily obtain paralegal education in various community colleges, technical schools, and, of course, various universities out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you are applying for a certain lawyer or attorney, most of them prefer hiring paralegals who at least have attained a Bachelor\u2019s Degree and around twenty-four credit hours in legal specialty courses. Of course, this is not the case for everybody, but most of them are like this. This is also due to the nature of the job revolving around research and legal responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speaking of paralegal education and courses, the National Federation of Paralegals Association or the NFPA has already made a set of school instructions for these paralegal programs. On the other hand, this curriculum is just a model and not necessarily need to be observed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another educational program you can opt to use during your studies is available through the American Bar Association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do take note, however, that all these programs are pointless if you fail to pass the exam to finally be considered as a certified paralegal. The exam does not test the program you took but tests your knowledge as an aspiring paralegal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Individuals who have the same amount of potential skills but do not hold a certification of sorts are referred to as legal assistant. As it stands right now, there are no states that require anybody to have a license in order to practice as a paralegal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some aspiring paralegals opt to start as an assistant to some attorney before actually enrolling and taking some paralegal courses. By doing this, you may already gain some practical experience before getting the theoretics. You may also opt to do this decision if you think this will fit you best.<\/p>\n\n\n