How to Become a Paralegal in Colorado

Demand for paralegals is projected to grow 28 percent through 2018.

If you're considering a career as a lawyer or if you enjoy helping people, learning and research, you may thrive as a paralegal. The field is projected to see faster than average growth of 28 percent through 2018. Most Colorado paralegals work for law firms, though some may work for small law offices or as private contractors. In mid 2008, full-time wage-and-salary paralegals earned an average annual salary of $46,120, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics..Over time, some paralegals can move into managerial positions, supervising a department of paralegals.

Instructions

1. Apply to Colorado paralegal programs approved by the American Bar Association to learn about legal issues and research skills. Programs offers associate or certificate degrees in paralegal studies.

   Another common method of entry, mainly for those who already have a bachelor's degree, is earning a certificate in paralegal studies, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says. Certificate programs vary significantly, with some taking only a few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees, according to the Bureau.

2. Complete all coursework. You will learn legal research, contracts, torts, criminal law, constitutional law and mediation. Students can take internships as part of the program.

3. Begin your paralegal job search when you've finished a paralegal program. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that some paralegals receive training on-the-job. The Colorado Bar Association maintains a job search database that includes paralegal jobs.

4. Once on the job you'll support a team of attorneys by performing legal research, legal proofreading, filing, photocopying and other duties. You may specialize in business, litigation, real estate or other areas of the law.

5. Join a professional association such as the Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association or NALA, the National Association of Legal Assistants.

Tips & Warnings

• As a Colorado paralegal, you must work under the direction of a licensed attorney. Colorado Rule of Professional Conduct 5.3 doesn't define paralegals but considers "paraprofessionals" as non-lawyer assistants. The rule states that lawyers must directly supervise their assistants and are responsible for their assistants' conduct.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Paralegal and Legal Assistants
• Paralegal Regulation in the United States

Resources

• American Bar Association: Colorado ABA-Approved Paralegal Programs
• Colorado Bar Association: Career Center
• Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association
• National Association of Legal Assistant