Job Outlook for Paralegal Careers
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Posted On :
Jul-20-2011
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Article Word Count :
367
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If you’re thinking of becoming a legal assistant, there is good news: the job outlook for paralegal careers is excellent right now, and it’s just going to keep getting better. Here are some more facts about the prospects, salary, requirements and job duties of paralegals.
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If you’re thinking of becoming a legal assistant, there is good news: the job outlook for paralegal careers is excellent right now, and it’s just going to keep getting better. Here are some more facts about the prospects, salary, requirements and job duties of paralegals.
Job Outlook
Paralegal careers are among the top 20 best jobs in America right now, according to CNN.Money. The legal market is healthy and there are not many problems with attrition in the paralegal field. Legal fees continue to rise and clients often turn to paralegals instead of attorneys for simpler issues. You will have plenty of work with attorneys who have large caseloads, and you may get some of your own clients for issues outside the courtroom.
Salaries
The salary you earn as a paralegal will depend largely on where you work (both geographic location and specific law firm), the education you’ve received, and the amount of experience you have. The average paralegal salary is $50,496, according to the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, but if you have some special skills and are able to step into a management position, you can potentially earn a six figure salary. If you are inexperienced and live in a rural area, on the other hand, you might earn less than $20,000 annually.
Job Duties
A paralegal is basically a legal assistant that helps attorneys deliver their legal services to clients, although paralegals may also find work in corporate and government environments, not just law firms. They must always work under the supervision of an attorney, however. They can’t give legal advice, represent clients in court cases or sign court documents. They can draft briefs, deposition notices, discoveries, motions, pleadings, subpoenas and other legal documents, though. Paralegals also interview clients, research legal issues for cases, and assist lawyers during arbitrations, administrative proceedings, closings, hearings, mediations and trials. Administrative duties, such as filing, organizing and answering phones, may also fall under the job duties of a paralegal.
Though not required, most paralegals complete at least an associate’s degree, and some complete professional certification to open up their job opportunities.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Job Outlook for Paralegal Careers_67575.aspx
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Author Resource :
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Keywords :
paralegal career, paralegal programs, paralegal schools, paralegal school,
Category :
Reference and Education
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Reference and Education
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