I am looking in to becoming a paralegal, what do i need to know?

Question

I would like to possibly take the courses online or night school.... I have seen some places offer a certificate, is this typical instead of a diploma? How long does the schooling normally take? Any information regarding this area of education would be helpful. I live in Dallas, TX... Thanks Yall!!

Answer 1

Hey...I live in Dallas too. I have been looking at different schools for paralegal as well. All of them have a associates degree program..and normally take at least 18 months. Have you found any schools that just do a certificate in a shorter amount of time? I heard is doesn't really matter if you have a degree or certificate...as long as you are trained and know what you are doing.  

Answer 2

Hi,

I am entering a paralegal program next week! I did a lot of research before I decided to do this. What I have found is that it really does matter where you go to school. There are a lot of schools near me offering para courses. I chose a community college because it is ABA-approved, which seems to be very important.

I have also learned that online and short programs are not good ideas.

The program should be on-campus. Mine has an internship, which is very important.

I have a BA, so I will be earning a paralegal certificate. The school also has an Associate's degree. It will take me 2 years, going part-time at night.

One thing you should know is that no matter what, you have to have experience. You will rarely start out as a para; you will have to start out in an entry-level job first. I plan on spending at least a year, probably 2 doing this. I know about it, so I am prepared. The attorneys want experience above anything else, but where you go to school will most likely determine your job opportunities. Be very careful what school you choose.

To give you an idea, my school is about 4,500-5,000. It would be close to double for the Associates because that is more credits, but my BA covers that. But, it is approved and well-respected. There are 2 schools near me charging 14,000 and 15,000 and they are not approved.

Good luck to you!