How to Become a Paralegal Within a Short Period of Time

Paralegals do not actually practice law.

Paralegals perform an essential duty for law offices with multiple cases that need extra help. The work of a paralegal involves drafting basic law contracts, filing legal papers, scheduling appointments and any other work that a lawyer may need. Paralegals typically need a college degree to gain employment. You can shorten the time it takes to become a paralegal by increasing your course load and using your school's career office to its full potential.

Instructions

1. Search the American Bar Association (ABA) website for accredited paralegal training schools (see Resources). If you obtain a bachelor's or associate's degree from a school that is not recognized by the ABA, law offices and legal companies may not hire you. ABA-accredited institutions teach standardized courses dealing in contract law and other legal procedures.

2. Enroll in your selected university or college to begin your paralegal coursework. To become a paralegal in a short period of time, increase your work load and consider graduating early. Many paralegal positions require only an associate's degree in paralegal studies. Normally, associate's degrees take approximately two years to complete. Take weekend classes and night classes to graduate sooner.

3. Use the career services office of your college to locate paralegal job opportunities in your area. The career counselors and staff of your school may have partnerships or connections with law firms and legal representatives in the area. Using this service before you graduate could shorten the time between graduation and landing a job as a paralegal.

4. Create a resume that describes your educational background in paralegal studies and any other administrative work you have performed in the past. Your resume should also include your personal contact information and any special work skills.

5. Find a law office in your area and inquire about paralegal positions. Online classified listings and career websites also list jobs in the paralegal industry. Contact law firms by phone and email to save time and limit driving.

References

• AAFPE: Homepage
• Paralegal Salary Data: How to Become a Certified Paralegal

Resources

• American Bar Association: Directory of ABA Approved Paralegal Education Programs
• Purdue Owl: Resume Workshop
• FindLaw: Find a Lawyer