What Are Freelance Paralegals Most Happy About Their Challenging, Lucrative Careers?

Paralegals: Who They Are and How Much They Earn

Paralegal Career: Working Like a Lawyer on a Paralegal's Salary

Ethics and Professional Responsibility for Paralegals

Ethics and Professional Responsibility for Paralegals provides complete coverage of legal ethics tailored to the needs of the practicing paralegal. Now in its fifth edition, Therese Cannon s authoritative and highly successful textbook continues to provide paralegal students with invaluable insights into the ethical principles they will face in practice.

Among the attributes that make this text so effective:
comprehensive coverage of all the major areas of legal ethics, placing special emphasis on how the rules affect paralegals authoritative presentation combined with clear and readable text and effective pedagogy. Each chapter begins with an overview, followed by well-written text in a well-organized format. Key terms are introduced in italics. Review questions reinforce the material.
Discussion questions, hypotheticals, research and other outside assignments provide depth and practice in applying the rules each chapter includes landmark cases on paralegals and other cases that demonstrate how the principles and rules are applieduseful appendices provide the text of paralegal association ethics codes that are referenced throughout the book.
the book is easily adaptable to courses of different lengths and can be used in other paralegal courses for supplementary ethics coverage across the curriculum teaching package includes an Instructor s Manual with Test Bank and PowerPoint slides The Fifth Edition has been enhanced with:
new rules and cases, including changes in ABA Model Rules and new cases on supervision, UPL, confidentiality, conflicts, competence and litigation
new assignments and research projectsmore hypotheticals suitable for use in class discussions or as assignments added to discussion questions
expanded Instructor s Manual that includes a Test Bank Web site that has links to state-specific ethics rules, ethics opinions and guidelines
Written by the highly respected legal educator, Therese Cannon, there is no text comparable to Ethics and Professional Responsibility for Paralegals for teaching professional responsibility to paralegal students.

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Fundamentals of Business Organizations for Paralegals, Third Edition

Fundamentals of Business Organizations for Paralegals, Third Edition, offers a concise treatment of all of the forms of business organizations in the United States. The author provides thorough, succinct treatment of all pertinent topics, making this book the ideal choice for instructors who teach a shorter course and need a text that covers critical topics with a more straightforward approach. Attentive to the fundamentals paralegal students need to know, this concise paperback provides: a basic and thorough understanding of all the various types of business organizations in a direct and concise format a discussion of each form of business organization, including the nature of the entity, advantages and disadvantages, formation of the entity, operation and management, transferability of ownership, dissolution, and tax consequences more in-depth treatment of Limited Liability Partnerships and Limited Liability Companies than other texts useful exhibits and charts that highlight important topics and sample forms that are integrated with the textual discussion throughout the book Internet resources in each chapter that direct readers to Internet sites that may provide additional information, forms, or agreements Key Terms defined in the margins for easy reference, practice tips in each chapter that provide pragmatic information for paralegals, lists of relevant websites and of tasks commonly performed by paralegals, and a complete glossary that provides an easy reference for terminology Case Illustrations, brief summaries of cases that illustrate one of the concepts or topics addressed in the chapter. Discussion Questions in each chapter that stimulate class discussion and ensure that students understand the material a complete ancillary package. New to Third Edition: each chapter includes all new discussion questions, Internet questions, and Case Illustrations Chapter 6 discusses Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act Chapter 10 discusses new trends in corporate governance, such as the move toward electing boards of directors by majority rather than plurality vote, the move toward eliminating staggered or classified boards of directors, new SEC rules and regulations, and the availability of proxy materials on the Internet coverage of the 2008 financial crisis Clear and to the point, Fundamentals of Business Organizations for Paralegals is an excellent, concise treatment of the basics of business organizations, providing students with a thorough understanding of essential topics.

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Paralegals - The World is Thy Oyster

In spite of ever increasing difficult economic times, there are a few areas of increasing job opportunities. These include paralegals and legal assistants.

Paralegals and legal assistants are actually the individuals who help out the lawyers with much of their easier, "less legal" daily tasks, which leave lawyers more time to work on the "bigger" work. In spite of their ability to carry out various tasks that was once thought to be exclusively for lawyers, paralegals and legal assistants are still explicitly prohibited from carrying out the actual tasks that lawyers do such as setting legal fees, giving legal advice and presenting cases to the court. Legal assistants may be bright but lawyers still have the last say on things and are still considered the authority on legal matters.

Paralegals are now considered to be an increasingly important component in most law offices today and as their value has increased so has competition for their services. As more and more law offices are using paralegals there has been a parallel rise in the skill level and expectations of paralegals.

In the past, most paralegals were trained on the job but as more and more people recognize the great career opportunity that has unfolded before them a whole new paralegal educational training field has been developed.

This has been a nature progression in the evolution of the field. As the demand has grown so has the expectations, as I indicated a little earlier and many firms are no longer interested in hiring a wannabe paralegal but want a fully trained, highly competent paralegal from the first day. As a result, most law firms will now only hire paralegal applicants who have postsecondary paralegal education or university graduates with a certain number of paralegal credits.

Not only are paralegals in great demand within law firms but they're also being pursued by corporate legal departments and various government offices that specialize in different areas of the law.

Another key aspect of a typical paralegals job description includes assisting the lawyers in preparing their cases. This includes: closings, trials, hearings and in some instances high level corporate meetings. A little known fact about paralegals is that they are often the ones given the task of searching for relevant judicial decisions, legal articles as well as any other materials that may be deemed important to the case.

It's extremely important that paralegals understand all the relevant facts about the cases they are assigned to investigate and they are taught to never dismiss any bit of information as irrelevant because it may turn out to be the key bit of information needed to win a case. Another important skill needed to be a good paralegal is a keen eye for detail and the ability to multi-task. Paralegals are given a wide range of duties and they need to be able to move from one task to another when the need arises.

Paralegals are also required, in many offices, to analyze and organize all the research data they've put together into a well written, informative and useful report that their supervising lawyer can reference to help them build their cases.

If you have been thinking about a career in law, starting out as a paralegal or a legal assistant can be a great stepping stone and learning opportunity before taking the next step and a becoming lawyer or even if your aspirations are simply to become and stay a paralegal it's still an exciting career choice. With all the possibilities a paralegal career offers today, the allure is becoming hard to resist for many.

If the allure of a paralegal career is calling you, check out the links below.

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Paralegal Desk Reference 1E (Paralegal's Desk Reference)

The number of paralegals is expected to grow by over 75 percent during the coming decade--and here's the book that all of these hard-working professionals will want to own. Packed with valuable inside information, it covers the full range of research and investigative assignments that paralegals perform regularly.

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Independent Paralegal's Handbook: How to Provide Legal Services Without Becoming a Lawyer

For over 25 years, more and more people have prepared their own legal papers with the help of independent paralegals, instead of handing their cases over to lawyers.

The Independent Paralegals' Handbook is a practical guide for anyone considering a career as a self-employed legal assistant, helping people take the law into their own hands. It contains interviews with leaders in the field, and discusses:

*legal areas open to independent paralegals
*where to get the necessary training
*the steps necessary to open a legal form-typing business
*what to name your business
*how much to charge
*how to market your services
*strategies designed to avoid unauthorized-practice-of-law charges
*independent paralegals who work for community and social-change organizations
*computers, the Internet and the independent paralegal

The definitive guide on the subject for more than 15 years, this updated and revised 6th edition provides crucial advice for the new or veteran independent paralegal.

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Basic Contract Law for Paralegals, 5th Edition

The newly revised edition of the best-selling text; Basic Contract Law for Paralegals gives students a firm foundation in the basics of contract law. This comprehensive and straightforward text speaks clearly to students, engaging them with lively examples which help to bring theory to life.

Instructors choose Basic Contract Law for Paralegals for it’s:

• quick, simple, and straightforward introduction to all of the basics of contracts law, specifically designed for paralegal students

• comprehensive coverage of all the key topics including a chapter on drafting simple contracts

• clearly written text and lively examples that help students understand the law

• well-crafted pedagogy, including chapter overviews, highlighted examples, key terms, review questions, sample clauses for analysis, edited cases, chapter summaries, and end-of-chapter exercises

• manageable length which makes it ideal for shorter courses

Exciting changes to the Fifth Edition include:

• new cases keep the book fresh in its Fifth Edition

• additional new cases in the supplemental cases appendix

• appendix with updated sample contracts, and additional samples provided in the Instructor’s Manual

For instructors in search of a basic, straightforward book on the key concepts in contract law, Basic Contract Law for Paralegals, Fifth Edition is just what they are looking for. Its student-friendly design and manageable length makes this text appealing to professors and students alike.

An author website to support classroom instruction using this title is available at http://www.aspenlawschool.com/helewitz_contracts5

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What Do Paralegals Do?

Do you ever wish you could hang out with the crew of Law & Order? Becoming a paralegal is one way to enter the law. It will not be as glamorous as Law & Order, but less glamour does not mean less prestige or satisfaction.

Paralegals make lawyers look prepared. Also known as legal assistants, paralegals may work for a lawyer, but they may also work for a corporation, the government, or any organization that deals with the law. A beginning paralegal will probably spend most of his or her time filing, photocopying, organizing papers and running errands. But paralegals can also do some of the work resembles those exciting crime dramas. Paralegals may help draft legal documents and interview witnesses.

The paralegal profession developed during the 1960s, when people were trained to help lawyers in order to provide legal services to those who could not typically afford them. Paralegals support lawyers and are trained to help law offices run smoothly.

Generally, there are two types of paralegals: litigation and corporate. Litigation paralegals are in charge of documents for trial cases. Most of the routine work that falls to litigation paralegals involves ordering and indexing the huge of amount of paper needed for trials: motions, briefs, depositions, etc. They also interview witnesses, do research, and draft paperwork. Corporate paralegals, on the other hand, spend most of their days organizing the paperwork associated with business dealings. A corporate paralegal, much like a litigation paralegal, makes sure the sets of paperwork are identical, ordering documents, and photocopying them.

The educational background of paralegal will help to determine the type of work he or she will be doing. If, for example, a paralegal took social work classes in college, she may have a better chance of working in a social justice firm or government office firm. Paralegals with some medical knowledge might work for a malpractice lawyer.

Though a paralegal's work may not always seem exciting, it is an excellent way to enter law, and to see if law might be the right career. College graduates, including recent graduates, in addition to those who have taken classes to become a certified paralegal, all have a good chance at finding a paralegal job. Working as a paralegal may help you get into law school and help you make powerful connections with lawyers, businesspeople, or government officials. Even if becoming a paralegal is not your dream job, it can still make for an excellent entry into the professional world.

Paralegals Info provides detailed information about paralegal jobs, schools, training, courses, certificates, and services. Paralegals Info is the sister site of Notary Public Web.

Fundamentals of Litigation for Paralegals

Fundamentals of Litigation for Paralegals is an established, highly successful text that provides paralegals with a comprehensive overview of the entire litigation process. The sixth edition has been completely updated to reflect the December 2007 changes to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and also includes expanded treatment of mediation and the use of computers as tools in the litigation process. Distinctive features of this outstanding text:

offers a complete understanding of the litigation process from the time the client walks into the office through trial and post-judgment, including settlements and alternative forms of resolutions
balanced approach that does not oversimplify the litigation process but also does not cover so many rules and procedures that the learning process is thwarted
clear, flexible organization allows the instructor to easily decide which areas to cover in the course
pedagogical aids throughout the text make the material accessible to students. These include bold-face terms defined in the glossary; numerous examples, charts, checklists, and sample documents; chapter overviews and summaries; and review questions.
a detailed appendix of an entire case file provides a reference for each of the areas discussed in the text, from the filing of a complaint through settlement and appeal
the accompanying workbook on CD reinforces the concepts learned in the book. In addition to review questions, the workbook has case scenarios for the student to use in completing assignments for the course and for use by the instructor as case studies in class. Forms are included to give the student practice filling out the forms.
Instructor s Manual provides answers to the questions posed in the workbook and book, as well as test questions for each chapter with answers and explanations New to the Sixth Edition:
text completely updated to reflect the changes to Federal Rules of Civil Procedure enacted on December 1, 2007
new information on search tools on the Internet and the use of computers in the litigation process additional resources at the end of each chapter have been updated and revised
section on ADR has been expanded to include additional information on mediation
Fundamentals of Litigation for Paralegals has been an effective favorite of both students and instructors through five editions. The sixth edition continues to provide cutting-edge information in an extremely accessible format.

Price: $134.95

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Introduction to Law for Paralegals: A Critical Thinking Approach

Now in its fourth edition, the highly successful Introduction to Law for Paralegals continues to offer paralegal students and instructors a well-rounded and accessible introduction to the legal system, the paralegal s role and the skills involved, as well as to substantive law issues. Using a critical thinking approach, this outstanding author team provides a comprehensive overview of the key concepts covered in introduction to law courses.

Experienced authors and educators, Currier and Eimermann skillfully present their materials in a way that facilitates teaching and learning. This text offers a comprehensive, intelligent overview of all the key concepts covered in a typical introduction to law course. A critical thinking approach that introduces students to the study of law and encourages them to interact with the materials through hypotheticals, examples, and well-designed questions.

Three parts that reflect the topics addressed in an introductory course: Part I, Paralegals and the American Legal System, introduces students to the role of the paralegal, sources and classification of law, the structure of the court system, and an overview of litigation. Part II, Finding and Analyzing the Law, offers an overview of the basics of legal analysis, research and writing. Part III, Legal Ethics and Substantive Law, covers substantive law.
The basic skills necessary to understand statutes and court cases. Teaching and learning aids that include ethics alerts, marginal definitions, Internet references, and legal reasoning exercises throughout the book. Material presented in an accessible and well-organized format. Substantive law chapters that use edited cases to teach students how to read and analyze the law. Appendices on good writing, citation, excerpts from the U.S. Constitution, Ethical Codes, and additional Net Notes. Enhancements in the Fourth Edition include:
Chapter 6 on Litigation is reorganized, making this material even easier to teach. The chapter now begins with a discussion of ADR and integrates the use of case studies.
New or expanded coverage of: federal powers and preemption, judicial selection, domain names, electronic discovery, email, contingency fees, intentional interference with a contractual relationship, caps on damages, interpretation of contracts, eminent domain, collaborative divorces, sperm & egg donations, same-sex unions, sentencing guidelines, habeas corpus, and citing of unpublished opinions.
Discussion of recently decided high-interest cases including Parents Involved in Community Schools v. Seattle School Dist. (use of racial criteria in school assignments), Phillip Morris v. Williams (punitive damages), Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire (statute of limitations for employment discrimination claims), Scott v. Harris (police use of excessive force), Hudson v. Michigan (exclusionary rule), Brendlin v. California (sentencing guidelines), Bowles v. Russell (habeas corpus in death penalty cases), Hamdan v. Rumsfeld (habeas corpus in terrorism cases), and Rumsfeld v. Padilla (habeas corpus in terrorism cases) Updated Internet references throughout the book.
New legal reasoning exercises included.
Introduction to Law for Paralegals, Fourth Edition, classroom tested and acclaimed, is an unparalleled teaching tool for the introduction to law course.

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Paralegals - What Exactly Do They Do?

So, what's a lawyer got that a paralegal does not?

Well, there's that law degree diploma hanging on the wall. And that hefty fee that comes with an office visit.

While there are some limitations to what a paralegal can do, chances are that most of your attorney's work is done by a paralegal, a legal assistant that he or she trusts to know the law and the documents being prepared. Be thankful - the paralegal fee is far less than the fee would be if an attorney were completing your paper work. Don't worry that your legal work is less effective or efficient because it was completed by someone other than your actual attorney. When the attorney puts his or her signature on a document prepared by a paralegal, the lawyer is verifying that the information is correct. It's just as legal - but probably costing you a lot less - to have the paralegal complete your paper work.

There are a lot of duties a paralegal plays in an attorney's office. The paralegal may do legal research and writing for your attorney. A paralegal may even take over as case manager, a situation that many firms are considering if they have not already adopted to help keep legal fees lower and affordable.

There are five things a paralegal cannot do. One, a paralegal cannot give legal advice. Only a licensed attorney should do that. Two, a paralegal cannot develop the attorney-client relationship. It just makes sense - the attorney-client relationship should be between those two people, otherwise it would be called the law firm representative - client relationship. Three, the paralegal cannot sign papers on behalf of the client. Only the attorney can attest his or her name to those legal documents. Four, the paralegal cannot represent a client in court. While many paralegals could probably do so quite well, it just isn't legal. And, five, the paralegal cannot set and collect legal fees. Only the attorney can do that.

Different states have different requirements for paralegals. Some do specifically require certification. Other states allow attorneys hiring the paralegals to judge the person's qualifications. After all, the attorney will be the one signing off on all of the paralegal's work. Some attorneys require a certain amount of legal experience, a background in research or other clerical skills. If you are interested in a career as a paralegal, check with some attorney's offices or law firms in your hometown. See what their qualifications are. If they prefer to hire paralegals with course certificates, ask if they can recommend a school or schools for you to examine.

There are plenty of opportunities to take paralegal courses, even for today's busiest people. In addition to home study courses, there are online courses, and programs of study at two and four year colleges and universities. One method of study is sure to fit your budget and the school of your choice may even have financial aid options available. If you are thinking of a paralegal career - or changing careers to be a paralegal - check out all your options and decide if having a two or four year paralegal certificate will help make you more marketable in the legal world.

Tip - For options in finding the best lender for you, check out the links below.

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Paralegals - Top Organizations You Need To Know

The career field of paralegals began developing in the United States in the 1960s and 1970s as lawyers began hiring the assistants to help them with paper work, case investigation and general duties. As more attorneys began hiring legal assistance, the American Bar Association formed the Standing Committee on Legal Assistance to help set the standard in the paralegal - attorney relationship, employment guidelines and other duties associated with the paralegal, or legal assistant. That committee was formed in the late 1960s and today is made up of both attorneys and professional paralegals. The American Bar Association offers a certification program to institutions that give courses in paralegal instruction which gives the bar association the opportunity to set standards in the education of legal assistants.

There are several major national professional organizations for paralegals in the United States, in addition to their representation in the American Bar Association. Some of those organizations have helped form the career field of the paralegal, or legal assistant.

Two professional organizations, the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), together represent more than 30,000 paralegals across the U.S. The organizations, while both working to serve the paralegal profession, have been competitive while determining the language that helps shape the profession. The NFPA prefers usage of the word paralegal while NALA prefers the term legal assistant.

The American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) is an organization of institutions and teachers of paralegal education programs. The organization strives for consistent paralegal education standards.

A new organization for paralegals began in 2003 and quickly began setting standards in the legal assistant field. The American Alliance of Paralegals serves individuals. Members in the American Alliance of Paralegals are required to meet certain educational or work experience guidelines in order to be a voting member. The organization was the first national organization for paralegals to become involved in setting minimum educational standards and guidelines.

If you are a paralegal hoping to gain membership in a national professional organization, do some research to see what type of associations are typical to your area. The national organizations will likely have state and regional groups meeting in your area, or a nearby area. Talk to other paralegals in your area to see if they have professional membership in one of these organizations. Ask about benefits and professional development training the organizations offer.

If you are just entering a career as a paralegal or just beginning training for such a career, see if a professional membership can help you in your career plans. Perhaps an organization that offers various networking or job notice work boards would be of benefit to someone seeking to enter the field. Membership could be like having an insider pulling for you. Also, if you are a student planning to enter the paralegal field, a national organization might be able to hook you up with scholarship or other financial award information to help you complete your training. Contact all the paralegal organizations you can find to see if they have special information that might help you along your path to your legal career.

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Scott Knutson is an entrepreneur and writer. For more of his articles visit: Paralegal [http://www.elite-paralegal.com] | Online Paralegal Degree | Paralegal Schools

Spanish for Attorneys and Paralegals with Audio CDs (Book & Audio CD)

Spanish words, phrases, and instructive exercises are presented to help English-speaking attorneys and paralegals communicate effectively with Hispanic clients who have little or no English. Every Spanish word and expression in the book is followed by its phonetic pronunciation and easy-to-follow tips to help its readers understand colloquial spoken Spanish. Author William Harvey concentrates on words and phrases likely to be used in law offices, courtrooms and similar settings, and which pertain to contracts, wills, real estate transactions, law suits, legal rights issues, misdemeanors, and felonies. Presented in these pages and on the enclosed audio CDs are true-to-life dialogues that dramatize typical encounters. This book's approach to teaching practical Spanish bypasses grammar rules and concentrates on practical conversational situations. Vocabulary and sentences presented on the compact discs relate to the book's text and provide practice in listening comprehension.

Price: $24.99

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Legal Assistants and Paralegals - The Future Is Bright

One of most common ways to become a legal assistant or paralegal is through a community college program that leads to an associate's degree. Another common route; primarily for those who already have a college degree, is through a program that leads to a certification in paralegal studies.

Many legal assistants and paralegals have associate degrees in paralegal studies or a bachelor's degree paired with a certificate in paralegal studies. Currently, a small number of schools offer bachelors' or masters' degrees in paralegal studies. A few employers train paralegals on the job, hiring college graduates with no legal experience or promoting experienced legal secretaries. Others have gained experience in a technical field useful to law firms, like tax preparation for tax and estate planning, criminal justice, nursing or health administration for personal injury practice.

With 250+ paralegal programs approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) and an estimated 1,000 colleges and universities, law schools and proprietary schools offering formal paralegal training programs - the field is highly represented. Although many programs don't require ABA approval, graduating from an ABA-approved program can enhance one's employment opportunities - it's a credibility thing for some employers.

Program admission requirements vary greatly - from a few college credits or courses to a bachelor's degree for others, to high school graduates, those with legal experience, passing a standardized test, to simply having a favorable personal interview.

Many legal assistant and paralegal programs include 2-year associate degree programs, 4-year bachelor degree programs and certificate programs that can take as little as a few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive and specialized paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees. On the other hand, associate and bachelor degree programs usually combine paralegal training with courses in other academic subjects.

Obviously, the quality of paralegal training programs can vary with the higher quality programs usually including job placement services.

Courses range from introducing students to the legal applications of computers, including how to perform legal research on the Internet to more and more paralegal training programs offering internships to assist students in gaining practical experience by working for several months in the real world. Internships could be with a private law firm, the office of a public defender or attorney general, a bank, a corporate legal department, a legal aid organization or a government agency. Clearly, the experience gained is an asset when one is seeking a job after graduation and for many can lead to a job with the company they interned with.

Most employers don't require certification but earning a voluntary certificate from a professional society does have its advantages when it comes to finding a job. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) has established standards for certification that requires various combinations of education and experience. Paralegals who meet their standards are eligible to take a 2-day examination, offered three times a year at one of several regional testing centers. Those who pass can then use the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) designation. NALA also offers an advanced paralegal certification for those who want to specialize in specific areas of the law.

The Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam offers professional recognition to legal assistants and paralegals that have earned a bachelor's degree and have at least 2 years of experience. Once they pass this test they can use the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation.

Legal assistants and paralegals must have the ability to document and present their findings and opinions to their supervising attorneys. They also need to understand legal terminology, have good research and investigative skills and be able to do legal research using a computer and the internet. They also need to stay abreast of new developments in the laws that affect their area of expertise. The most common way many legal assistants and paralegals expand their knowledge is by participating in continuing legal education seminars.

Because legal assistants and paralegals deal with the public on an ongoing basis they need to be "shining examples" of ethical standards for the legal profession. The National Association of Legal Assistants, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations and a few States have established ethical guidelines for them to follow.

Employment Outlook

Legal assistants and paralegals held about 224,000 jobs in 2004 with about 70% being employed by private law firms; most of the remainder worked for corporate legal departments and various levels of government. Within the Federal Government, the U.S. Department of Justice is the largest employer, followed by the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Department of the Treasury. A small number of paralegals own their own businesses and work as freelance legal assistants, contracting their services to attorneys or corporate legal departments.

As a whole, employment in this field is projected to grow much faster than average. The current trend of employers trying to reduce costs by hiring paralegals to perform duties formerly carried out by lawyers is expected to continue into the foreseeable future. As a result, employment opportunities are projected to grow much faster than average for the next 10 years or so.

As in all fields, compensation varies greatly due to the high number of variables but in general, salaries depend on education, training, experience, the type and size of employer and the geographic location of the job. As a whole, legal assistants and paralegals who work for large law firms or in large metropolitan areas earn more than those who work for smaller firms or in less populated regions. In addition to salary, many also receive bonuses. In mid 2004, the average salary for all legal assistants or paralegal was a tad over $39,000 per year.

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Kevin Erickson is an entrepreneur and writer. For other articles he's written visit: Paralegal Schools | Travel Nursing | Medical Transcription

Paralegal Work - What Kind of Job Do Paralegals Have?

Have you thought about pursuing a career in the legal field and doing paralegal work? If so, you're one of many. Record numbers of individuals are seeking lucrative careers as paralegals. This is due to the fact that paralegals are in such high demand, and will continue to be through the year 2014 as indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics.

We intend to address these questions in this article: what is a paralegal? What are the daily activities of paralegals? What kind of salary should I expect as a paralegal? And what kind of paralegal degrees or credentials are required to be a paralegal?

Paralegals are sometimes called legal secretaries or legal assistants. However, unlike secretaries or executive assistants, paralegals have a knowledge base rooted in the law, and are much more specialized.

Here are some of the daily activities you may be responsible for as a paralegal: document preparation, legal research, preparation for litigation, filed administration, office management, collection of judicial decisions, data retrieval, preparing motions, and much more. Basically anything their employers need them to do except of course offering legal advice, representing clients, or charging for legal services.

Most paralegals work for law firms, but many also work for government institutions, real estate offices, banking institutions, corporations of all kinds, and many more. As such, the actual activity is a paralegal is responsible for can be very different depending on factors such as, the environment they work in, their position, the needs of their employer, and of course their background.

For those seeking a career in the legal field, paralegal work can allow you to work and pay the bills while going to school full or part time. Paralegal degrees are offered at many community colleges, four-year universities and even post-graduate institutions. In fact, an estimated 1000 colleges, organizations, and law schools offer training for future paralegals.

Paralegal salaries can vary heavily depending on many factors. For example, the area of the country, the weight of responsibilities, past experience, and education level, all play a big role in determining a paralegal salary. The going rate for an entry level paralegal positioni is between $25,000-$30,000. From there, salaries can elevate into the $80,000-$100,000 in some cases. The minimum requirement for most law firms is a paralegal certificate requiring a few months basic education, but realistically, a bachelors degree or post grad degree in paralegal studies should be obtained.

One of the benefits of paralegal work over a traditional assistant or secretary is the fact that you will never be bored, and always be carrying out different tasks throughout the days, weeks, and months of the year. Since attorneys obviously have lots of different clients with different situations and needs, the nature of these cases are quite unique, and thus, the role of the paralegal is this way as well. Paralegal work is never a boring or monotonous. As a result, most paralegals are very satisfied with their jobs and tend to have a high morale.

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NALA Manual for Paralegals and Legal Assistants

The revised NALA Manual is a valuable reference guide for professionals and students in the legal studies field. Working paralegals will not only find it helpful as an on-the-job reference, but also beneficial when preparing for the Certified Legal Assistant/Certified Paralegal examination. Paralegal programs can also use the manual as a reference for students or a textbook for capstone courses. The Manual is a collection of proven techniques and procedures used by paralegals nationwide. The techniques described are examples of successful solutions to actual assignments accomplished by working legal assistants. They may be used as starting points from which changes, adaptations, and modifications may be made by legal assistants in similar situations. More than 100 leading authorities with a wide range of experience in legal disciplines and management have contributed to this comprehensive manual since it was introduced in 1976. The expertise and commendable dedication of these individuals has consistently produced an authoritative and reliable reference for paralegals with each updated edition.

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Legal Research and Writing for Paralegals

Legal Research and Writing for Paralegals offers students a lucid, well-organized introduction to legal research and writing. Designed and written specifically for paralegal students, the fifth edition of this widely acclaimed text continues to be an exemplary teaching and learning tool.

Among the attributes that have contributed to the success of this text:
comprehensive overview of research and writing skills, reinforced by illustrations and exercises.
integration of writing strategies into each research chapter to demonstrate the link between the two processes.
thorough coverage of electronic research, including a chapter on Internet research as well as fee-based services such as Lexis and Westlaw. Tips throughout the text demonstrate how to most effectively use electronic resources.
descriptive charts and diagrams that help students understand complex topics.
Practice Tips in each chapter offer realistic and helpful suggestions for workplace success.
Internet Assignments help students learn how to navigate through cyberspace. These questions, which can be made state specific, require students to access relevant Internet sites and locate information.
thorough explanations of proper citation form for both ALWD and The Bluebook and updating and validating legal authorities.
samples of legal writing, such as a case brief, letters, a court brief, and a legal memorandum.
in-depth Instructor s Manual that includes an overview of the text, sample syllabi, tips on teaching strategies, chapter-by-chapter resource information, answer keys for all assignments, and a test bank.
Thoroughly updated to reflect changes in legal research sources and techniques, the Fifth Edition includes:
updated information on legal writing. new sample pages.
new discussion questions.
new questions requiring readers to access pertinent Internet sites to locate information, mirroring what paralegals do in practice.
ethics alerts now included in each chapter, providing a quick and concise ethics tip relating to the information in that chapter.
Chapter 9 on Updating and Validating the Law is now more concise, reflecting the fact that updating is now done nearly exclusively electronically.
Legal Research and Writing for Paralegals, Fifth Edition, designed to focus on issues paralegals face on the job, provides an excellent introduction to the science and art involved in legal research and writing.

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Paralegals - Do They Have a Code of Ethics?

In a business sense, ethics are a system of moral principles or rules of conduct. Attorneys, paralegals, and legal assistants or secretaries have codes of ethics within the legal field. A paralegal should maintain a high degree of professionalism while performing her work. That high degree of professionalism is ensured when she manages her work duties while following a particular code of ethics.

Which ethics affect a paralegal career is best explained by reviewing the Model Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility and Guidelines for Enforcement, which was adopted in May 1993 by the National Federal of Paralegal Associations, Inc.

Section 1 of the Model Code sets forth disciplinary rules and ethical considerations for paralegals.

Section 1.1 A Paralegal Shall Achieve and Maintain a High Level of Competence.

A paralegal's competence continues to grow by education, training and on-the-job experience. The Model Code states that a paralegal should participate in a minimum of twelve hours of CLE (continuing legal education) every two years. This is an excellent way for legal assistants to stay updated on changes to laws. Her continued training should include at least one hour of ethics education. A paralegal should remain current on changes so she can help clients to the best of her ability.

Section 1.2 A Paralegal Shall Maintain a High Level of Personal and Professional Integrity.

This section deals with a paralegal's conduct regarding work matters. Paralegals should not discuss cases with court personnel in an attempt to exert influence over a ruling. They may not talk about cases to people who are represented by an attorney without that attorney's consent.

This section also deals with a paralegal's billing practices. It says basically that a legal assistant will be honest and accurate in time and expense reporting. By the way, not only is fraudulent billing unethical, it's a crime. Some of these points are no-brainers but need to be set out nonetheless.

Any cash or money accounts handled by a paralegal through his work should be reported honestly.

Section 1.3 A Paralegal Shall Maintain a High Standard of Professional Conduct.

A paralegal's conduct will be appropriate, as if he is in front of a court. He shall not engage in violence or be dishonest. He will not interfere in the administration of justice. A legal assistant won't abuse the powers of a professional position or public office.

Section 1.4 A Paralegal Shall Serve the Public Interest by Contributing to the Improvement of the Legal System and Delivery of Quality Legal Services, including Pro Bono Publico Services.

One way a paralegal can help his community is by volunteering to serve on committees which improve local legal services.

Section 1.5 A Paralegal Shall Preserve All Confidential Information Provided by the Client or Acquired From Other Sources Before, During and After the Course of the Professional Relationship.

I believe this section is the most important one for a paralegal to understand and heed. A paralegal must not discuss any confidential information about a client or case with anyone other than her boss or the client himself. What is confidential information? Why bother trying to dissect it, just don't talk about it.

It is a paralegal's responsibility to tell her boss anything she has learned about the case to assist in his representation.

Note that this section specifically states "before, during, and after the course of the professional relationship." A paralegal should not discuss a case with others even when it is concluded.

Section 1.6 A Paralegal shall Avoid Conflicts of Interest and Shall Disclose any Possible Conflict to the Employer or Client, as Well as to the Prospective Employers or Clients.

If a paralegal may have a conflict of interest in working on a case, she should inform her boss. An example of a possible conflict of interest is if the paralegal was previously employed by a law firm representing an opposing party in the same case. It is probably best that she not work on that case for her current employer at all. When it has been established that a conflict of interest is present, everyone needs to be aware of the situation and cooperate in adequately protecting the client's interests as well as the paralegal herself by not discussing the case around her and routing paperwork well away from her.

Section 1.7 A Paralegal's Title Shall Be Fully Disclosed.

A paralegal should include her title on all correspondence, business cards, formal letterhead, pamphlets or any other form of written communication. For example, her signature would read:

Sincerely,

Laura McDonald

Paralegal

This eliminates any possible confusion over what her position is. Some people may assume she is an attorney, and expect or demand more from her than her position allows. This could create major problems, and brings us to our next ethical issue.

Section 1.8 A Paralegal Shall Not Engage in the Unauthorized Practice of Law.

The best rule of thumb to follow is: paralegals may not give legal advice. Check with your local jurisdiction on any possible variances, but basically it means leaving the legal advice giving to the attorneys.

Are you fascinated by trials? Do you like helping people? A career as a Paralegal is challenging, rewarding, and NEVER boring. Sign up for free newsletters that show you how to step into this exciting career. Adventures await you....

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Laura McDonald is a paralegal. She is a member of NFPA (National Federation of Paralegal Associations). Laura is experienced in the areas of personal injury, civil litigation, family, environmental and corporate law, estate planning and bankruptcy. She works for Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C., located in Frankfort, Kentucky. The firm's website is http://www.mlhlawky.com