How to Become a Family Law Paralegal

Family law paralegals work closely with attorneys and clients on a number of family law matters, including divorces, child support, child custody, adoptions, and child abuse and neglect cases. Although many family law paralegals work for private firms, they may work for government social service agencies or legal aid offices. Family law paralegals most frequently deal with clerical matters, such as drafting documents, answering phones, and typing letters, but experienced paralegals may be required to maintain independent contact with clients.

Instructions

1. Get a paralegal certificate. Many family law paralegals attend a two-year paralegal certificate program after high school to learn the basic legal terminology, how to draft legal documents and conduct research. Although a specialized certificate is not required to work as a family law paralegal, they can give candidates an edge in the job market.

2. Earn your bachelor's degree in a social science discipline. Prospective family law paralegals may wish to earn their bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or another discipline that will help them better understand the needs of clients dealing with divorce, adoption, or child custody issues.

3. Develop strong clerical skills. Family law paralegals must have excellent typing, computer, and telephone skills. They also must be able to edit and proofread legal documents, so strong punctuation, grammar, and writing skills are a must.

4. Stay organized. Family law paralegals are frequently responsible for maintaining confidential client files, so it is important that they have strong organizational skills and can track down documents quickly when an attorney needs them for a court appearance or client consultation. Family law paralegals also must be able to manage multiple cases at a time and meet court-determined deadlines, so they should have good time-management skills.

References

• Family law paralegals