How to Become a Paralegal: Education, Certification and First Job
BestParalegals is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Information here is general and may not apply to your situation or state. For legal advice, consult a licensed attorney.
There is no single license for paralegals in most of the U.S. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, paralegals typically need an associate's degree or a certificate in paralegal studies. Some employers prefer a bachelor's degree, and some will hire people with a high school diploma and experience, or train them on the job.
Common paths
| Path | Who it suits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Associate's degree in paralegal studies | New students | The most common route, per BLS |
| Bachelor's degree plus a paralegal certificate | Career changers with a degree | Many employers prefer a bachelor's |
| Paralegal certificate only | People with work experience | Check whether the program is approved by the American Bar Association if that matters to employers near you |
| On-the-job training | Legal secretaries and assistants | Some firms promote from within |
Voluntary certifications
Certification is not usually required, but BLS says some employers prefer it. It typically means passing an exam after meeting education or experience rules, then keeping up with continuing education. Well-known options include the NALA Certified Paralegal (CP) and the NFPA PACE-based Registered Paralegal credential.
Skills employers look for
- Legal research and writing
- Attention to detail and organization
- Communication with clients and attorneys
- Comfort with e-filing, document management and research software
Rules on what paralegals can do
Paralegals work under a lawyer's supervision and cannot give legal advice. Some states have their own rules or titles, such as California's requirements for using the title paralegal. See can a paralegal give legal advice?
Related: paralegal salary.
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