What's the difference between paralegal certificate and decree?
Asked by narod66
Can anybody help me? I recently received my certificate and I am wandering if it is enough to start own business as paralegal? I don't really have a full idea about this system in the USA. I am only here since 3 years & I am still confused about this matter. Thanks for your time to answer me.

Best Answer:
You are aware you cannot work as an independent paralegal doing legal work (papers) without having an attorney as a sponsor right? You do have an attorney to sponsor you? You have the very idea that many of us had when we received our paralegal certification. Sorry. No attorney rep? Get ready to face some serious legal trouble if someone reports you for screwing up there papers.

In most states paralegals must work under an attorney. There are a few states where a paralegal can legally offer form preparation to the general public. As far as the difference between a degree and a certificate, if you open your own business it really does not matter. If you are applying for a job, an employer will consider a degree to be a much more well rounded education. You may get your foot in the door with a certificate but you will need some on the job training as well. An ABA approved course is best for a paralegal education. If you have any additional questions you can e-mail me from my profile page and I will send you some links to additional information.
Answered by Ken

I think a certificate requires less training than a degree. I have an Associate Degree for paralegal, but there are also higher degrees like a Bachelor Degree. You could start your own business, but if you don't have any experience or just a little experience, I don't know how well you will do. Good luck!
Answered by Jodie C