Paralegal Program Career Facts
What They Do:
Paralegals are professionals who provide non-clerical services under the supervision of an attorney. Tasks that might be performed by paralegals include maintenance of important documents relating to lawsuits or business transactions, preparation of trial exhibits, legal research and investigation, drafting of court pleadings and legal documents, and completion of form documents. The actual practice of law is restricted to licensed attorneys. Work performed by paralegals allows attorneys to commit more time to activities that specifically require the expertise of a trained lawyer. Use of paralegals results in lower costs for legal services and greater efficiency and economy for all concerned.
Who Would Enjoy It:
The successful paralegal has excellent reading and writing skills, enjoys research, investigation, and preparation of documents and trial exhibits, and is able to work independently or as a part of a team. The paralegal works in a fast-moving, challenging environment where high standards of performance are expected and rewarded.
What They Earn:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2004; U.S. Department of Labor annual midrange salaries for paralegals in the United States are $30,020 to $48,760. In early 2004 Great Lakes average salaries, including Michigan, were $42,900, according to the web site of the State of Michigan. Entry level salaries will be somewhat lower, estimated to be in a range from $25,000 to $36,900 in Michigan. The salary of a paralegal with a Bachelor’s Degree will typically be higher than that of a paralegal with an Associate’s Degree. Large law firms typically pay more than small law firms, and some areas of legal specialty pay higher than others.
Job Market Outlook:
Forecasts by the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics predict the paralegal profession to grow faster than average through the year 2012. These nationwide statistics, of course, do not necessarily reflect trends in all localities, but they do indicate the tremendous potential for growth in all areas of the country.
How Many Jobs Available:
The Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics predict the paralegal profession to be one of the fastest growing careers in the United States through the year 2012. The number of annual openings in Michigan is predicted to be around 60 per year. Competition for jobs tends to be high.
How Much Schooling, Training, or Skill Development:
The typical educational level required by employers is an Associate's Degree. Some employers require a Bachelor's Degree, and some employers require that paralegal training be from a program approved by the American Bar Association.
Types of Jobs:
Graduate of the programs have the training and background to successfully perform a variety of legal services. Employment opportunities exist in law firms, corporate legal departments, banks, insurance companies, credit and collection agencies, title insurance companies, real estate offices, various parts of the criminal justice system, court systems and government agencies. Graduate have valuable skills that are attractive to employees outside the legal field as well.
Related Occupations:
Claim Examiners, Police Officers, Title Examiners and Lawyers
