By
Lanee’ Blunt
 |
| Paralegals perform a variety of tasks to assist attorneys-- Image by Oki975. |
Paralegals
work in law firms, corporations, and government agencies. In smaller firms a
paralegal may have to prepare written reports that help lawyers determine how
to handle their cases, and may help prepare the legal arguments and draft
documents to be filed with the court. In larger firms they may work only on a
particular phase of the case, for example maintain reference files, conduct
research for lawyers, and collect and organize evidence for hearings.
Education
Training
includes degree programs and certification. Classes may be taken at colleges,
community colleges, and online. The degree
programs include associate and bachelor degrees in paralegal studies, and a
4-year bachelor's degree program with paralegal as the major course of study. There are community colleges that offer 2-year
associate degree programs. Some schools offer job placement so check with your
admissions if they offer this service.
Average Paralegal
Salaries
According
to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average wage was $46,680
for a paralegal. The lowest earned less
than $29,460 and the top earned more than $74,870. Starting salaries for
paralegals with 1 to 4 years’ experience may range from $26,454 to $50,589,
according to PayScale.com. The hourly rate for 1 to 4 years’ experience is
$10.13 to $20.80.
Most
paralegals that work in large law firms earn more than working in smaller
firms. Paralegals that work for the US Government earn the highest wages; the
second is working for private business or law firms, and followed by insurance
companies and legal services.
Benefits
The
benefits that they receive are health insurance, 401k, dental and life
insurance, disability, reimbursement for continued legal education, a 401(k)
savings, vacation, paid sick leave, and personal time off. There may be long
hours and overtime when the law firm is busy handling a big case.
Reference
