by Jayden Hunter

Created on: May 01, 2008

To become a paralegal, or legal assistant, as they are often more commonly known, one should first possess an interest in the field of law. Skills such as typing, filing, organizing and dealing with difficult people will come in quite useful as well. It is imperative that you are able to thrive under pressure and have the ability to produce quality work under time constraints.

There are two types of Legal Assistant or Paralegal programs available for those who are interested. Te first is usually a six to nine month program that focuses primarily on secretarial skills and the "how" of preparing legal documentation. At the completion of this program, you would earn a Certificate.

The second program is typically a two year program that is much more in depth. You would obtain a Diploma at the end of the course and some of the coursework undertaken can earn you partial credit toward law school, should you decide to pursue the area of law further still. This course teaches not only the "how" but also the "why" and "when" of preparing legal documentation. Being a much longer program, one gains a greater understanding of various facets of law.

Both the Certificate and the Diploma programs offer "practicum" units, which enable the student to actually utilize their gained knowledge in a real law office setting, however the Diploma program tends to offer a much longer practicum period at the end of the course, thus allowing those students to obtain possible permanent employment prospects at the firm where they complete their practicum, once their program requirements have been met.

A paralegal not only provides valuable assistance to a lawyer but may be responsible for drafting pleadings, meeting with clients, conducting research, briefing witnesses, and various other matters that require honesty, integrity and the greatest requirement of all total confidentiality.

Becoming a paralegal is a growth process that requires much more than just completing some post secondary education.

Depending on your location, a Paralegal has the ability to enjoy a rewarding, fast-paced career which may include great opportunities for advancement and personal growth. For example, Paralegals are becoming much more "recognized" as valuable, competent and necessary parts of a legal team in larger urban centers and thus, salaries may be higher in those locales.

To become a Paralegal, you must be able to provide daily assistance to one or more lawyers and be able to handle stress not only your own, but sometimes the lawyer's and the client's as well.

Whether you choose the Certificate or the Diploma Paralegal/Legal Assistant Program, it is very possible to enjoy a career in the rewarding and often lucrative field of law, with hard work and determination.

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