Click here to register for the paralegal program.
Being a paralegal is a rewarding and challenging career within the legal field. Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, play a crucial role in supporting lawyers and law firms by conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, organizing files, and assisting with case management. Here are some critical aspects of being a paralegal:
Legal Research: Paralegals often research to gather information relevant to cases. This can involve reviewing statutes, regulations, case law, and other legal documents to support attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, or other legal proceedings.
Document Drafting: Paralegals assist attorneys in drafting various legal documents, including contracts, pleadings, motions, and briefs. They must have strong writing skills and attention to detail to convey legal arguments and information accurately.
Case Management: Paralegals help manage cases by organizing files, maintaining calendars, scheduling appointments, and coordinating communication between attorneys, clients, and other parties involved in the legal process.
Client Interaction: Depending on the firm and the specific role, paralegals may interact with clients to gather information, provide updates on case progress, and assist with inquiries or requests.
Specialization: Paralegals may specialize in specific areas of law, such as corporate law, real estate, litigation, family law, or intellectual property. Specialization often requires additional training or experience in a particular legal area.
Ethical Considerations: Paralegals must adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain confidentiality regarding client information and privileged communications. They work under the supervision of attorneys and must follow ethical standards set by legal professional organizations.
Continuing Education: Keeping up with changes in laws, regulations, and legal technologies is essential for paralegals. Many pursue continuing education courses, certifications, or advanced degrees to enhance their skills and stay current.
Teamwork: Paralegals collaborate closely with attorneys, legal assistants, and other professionals to ensure cases proceed smoothly and efficiently. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential for success in this role.
Being a Paralegal in New York
In New York City, you generally do not need a specific degree to work as a paralegal. However, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal paralegal studies program or have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as criminal justice, political science, or pre-law.
While a degree or certificate in paralegal studies is not always required, having one can enhance your job prospects and may qualify you for higher-paying positions or advancement opportunities within the legal field. Ultimately, the specific educational requirements for paralegal positions in New York City can vary depending on the employer and the nature of the work. It’s essential to research job postings and consult with professionals to determine the educational qualifications and skills needed for the paralegal positions you’re interested in pursuing.
The Chamber Coalition offers an outstanding Certificate Program at an affordable price of $550, that can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a paralegal. Some topics include legal research, writing, immigration, family, and access to CALI, which law schools use. You also get additional certificates from CLIO and Lexis Nexis. For more information, visit https://freeparalegal.org/program-registration-and-orientation.
Overall, being a paralegal requires a combination of legal knowledge, organizational skills, attention to detail, and professionalism. It offers opportunities for career growth and advancement within the legal profession.
