How many years of schooling is needed to become a paralegal?
Asked by tequiero_xo
I am currently a senior in high school, and interested in getting a degree in paralegal. I'm not interested in going to school for more then two years. After some research, I decided to go one year full time to become a secretary and get an idea of what the working environment is like, and then continuing part time to get my degree as a paralegal. The problem is, every school I've found is a four-year college. If anyone has any sites where I could find schools, that'd be excellent. Also, would an online degree be comparative? Thanks so much for your help. : )

Best Answer:
Don't get an online degree. There are many programs that you can get a degree in (an Associate's Degree) in paralegal studies. Check with your local community college to see if they offer an associate's degree program in paralegal studies. You can also check out the ABA's website of ABA approved paralegal programs here: http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/ Just click on your state and find out which ones are available. For example, I clicked on "California" and found some 4-year programs (offering certificates) but also found 2 year programs offering an associate's degree. See: http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/ca.html#east Community college is definitely the least expensive way to go! Plus, you can go part-time at night and get a job as a legal secretary by day (that way you'll have an "in" at the firm you work at once you graduate from paralegal school).

Most paralegal programs are 2 year certificates. We have had clients who wanted to go to paralegal school so we called every lawyer in town to ask if they would hire someone with a paralegal certificate and they all said NO. A paralegal is just a glorified secretary. Learn as much secretary skills as you can. Learn Word and Excel and get your typing speed up. The people who work in those offices don't know anything about the law and it is illegal for them to give legal advice. They just type up documents for their clients. The documents are already on the hard drive and all they have to do is change the names, amounts and dates. Don't waste your money on paralegal school.
Answered by David W

Here is the link to the American Bar Association's website. It lists ABA accredited schools, just click on your state to find one near you: http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/home.html I think your path is an excellent way to your career. Working in a law office, even as a secretary, will give you an insight into how they run and you will gain valuable experience. To become a paralegal one can do it through school or on the job training. You only really need an associates degree, a bachelor's is not necessary. Best of luck to you. If you have any other questions e-mail me.
Answered by Y!A Reporters = Pathetic