How to Become a Certified Paralegal in Nevada
Becoming a certified paralegal in Nevada is a move that can put you on the path to an in-demand, fast-paced career. Many lawyers rely heavily on competent paralegals to help them provide efficient service to their clients, so your work as a paralegal can provide a rewarding experience as well, knowing that you're helping others resolve legal issues. Plus, CNN Money Magazine ranked paralegals as having the 27th best job in the U.S., listing the profession as one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying careers in the entire country.
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Instructions
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Obtain a degree in paralegal studies. The minimum requirement for becoming a certified paralegal is to complete an associate degree in paralegal studies. There are a variety of colleges in Nevada that offer paralegal degrees, with programs ranging in length from six months to 18 months. Depending on the program you choose, you will find that your coursework contains a mixture of studies in paralegal activities and other basic information (such as math, history, etc.). When choosing a paralegal program to attend, check to make sure that the program is approved by the American Bar Association. While not required, programs that are ABA approved might enhance your job opportunities.
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Get certified. If you already have a degree (in a field unrelated to paralegal studies) and/or are looking to break into the paralegal profession quickly, receiving certification from the Association of Legal Assistants can help give you a jump start into your first paralegal job. Certification can also make you more attractive to potential employers. The Certified Paralegal (CP) exam is broken into five sections: Communications, Ethics, Legal Research, Judgment and Analytical Ability and Substantive Law. Each section needs to be completed with at least 70 percent accuracy in order to receive the certification. See the Resources section for a link to the application options.
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Find a job as a certified paralegal. Once you've obtained a degree and/or certification, you're ready to start your career. A few places to find work as a paralegal are in the local want ads or in online job forums. If you completed a paralegal studies degree, you might also ask your instructors if they can steer you toward job opportunities, or try dropping your resume off at local law firms as a way of announcing yourself to employers in need.
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References
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