Curricula and Learning Links - Career Exploration
Paralegal
by AZTeri
What do you do in this job?
Depending on where you go in the paralegal field, there are a wide variety of jobs that you could have. While I was in the military, I did everything from investigating claims, both against the military as well as on the military's behalf. I worked closely with attorneys on criminal cases, both for the offense and the defense. I researched case law, drew up complaints, gave guidance to commanders regarding punishments, and drew up simple legal documents - powers of attorney, wills, simple deeds. I also maintained calendars for attorney and ensured that suspense dates were adhered to.
Outside the military, I worked for a real estate attorney. In that job, I drew up and filed eviction notices, foreclosure notices, deeds, trusts, titles and lots and lots of letter for and to our clients. I also did some work on trusts and estates, and transcribed wills.
When I worked for the Veteran's Administration Court of Appeals, I was a docket clerk. This job called for me to receive all incoming correspondence from lawyers representing both sides, entering it into a computer program, and filing it. I was responsible for making sure that court dates were kept, which meant I was responsible for writing letters to attorneys for both sides and telling them a document was due.
Why is it interesting?
Lots of variety. The reading was at times fascinating, at times mundane.
What makes it rewarding?
Seeing the work I accomplished at the end of a day! Also, when I could help people recover money due to an accident or injury, or damage to their goods, it felt nice to know I could help them out.
How do you become qualified for this job?
The military provided my training for the bulk of my career. If I were to do it over again, I would definitely pursue a Paralegal Degree. Most community colleges have them, plus there are a few places where you can get a BS in paralegal studies. It can be a good stepping stone to a law degree, if you are so inclined, but paralegals can make a substantial salary, without all the pressure that lawyers are under!
Start working at a law firm as a receptionist or in the mail room or library, and then work your way up. That's what my daughter is doing. She started as a receptionist, is now a legal secretary, and is considering (and being encouraged by her boss) switching to part-time and going to school full time to finish her paralegal degree.
How would a young person find out more about this job?
Military - talk to a recruiter! If you wanted to go into this particular field, you would need to ask about guaranteed jobs, and what the openings are like. Civilian - depends, do you want to go to school or just work on the job? If you want to go to school, check your community college. Talk to lawyers and ask them the best way to get involved in your community. Volunteer for Law Day activities. Some communities have teen court, you could check into that by calling your local Bar Association.
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