10/20/2025
A Practical Guide for Aspiring Paralegals
Pursuing a role in law doesn’t always mean committing to law school. For students interested in the legal system, research, and justice who prefer a more accessible path, paralegal work is one potential path within the legal support profession for those interested in the legal field.
Paralegals, sometimes known as legal assistants, play roles in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments. They assist in drafting legal documents, conducting legal research, and supporting attorneys throughout the case preparation process. Their responsibilities span multiple areas of legal practice.
Explore the steps and considerations involved in how to become a paralegal, including educational requirements, certifications, specialization options, and typical responsibilities.
Educational Requirements to Enter the Legal Profession
Understanding the educational requirements for a paralegal role helps students map their career journey. Most entry-level positions require at least an associate or bachelor's degree, with many employers preferring candidates who have completed a paralegal studies program or certificate.
While it’s possible to enter the field through various educational paths, students typically begin with:
- A high school diploma, which is a minimum requirement for most post-secondary paralegal programs
- Enrollment in a degree or certificate program that includes legal coursework
- Optional pursuit of an ABA-approved paralegal program, which signals to employers that the training meets high industry standards
Some students pursue associate degrees, while others complete bachelor’s degrees with coursework related to legal studies. Both may provide academic preparation for paralegal roles.
Associate Degree Programs in Paralegal Studies
An associate's degree in legal studies typically takes two years of full-time study. These programs often combine foundational knowledge in humanities and communications with core legal training. Students learn how to conduct legal research, draft legal documents, and interpret key legal concepts.
Graduates of associate degree programs may seek entry-level roles in law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments. These programs are designed to provide a shorter academic path for those seeking foundational knowledge in legal support.
Many associate programs are available online, though availability may vary. Practical experience, such as internships, is often built into the curriculum to help students apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Paralegal Certificate Programs
For students who already have a bachelor's degree in legal studies or another field, an undergraduate certificate in paralegal studies can provide a focused path into the profession. These certificate programs are typically shorter than degree options, lasting anywhere from a few months to a year.
Paralegal certificate programs emphasize hands-on skills over general education. Students learn the mechanics of legal writing, document preparation, and the use of legal databases. Some programs offer evening or weekend classes, while others provide fully online formats for additional flexibility.
When choosing a certificate program, it's important to look for accreditation and assess whether the coursework aligns with industry expectations. Some paralegal programs also include externship opportunities, helping students gain firsthand experience before applying for jobs.
Becoming a Certified Paralegal
While not all employers require paralegals to be certified, holding a professional credential can help demonstrate dedication to the field and mastery of relevant skills. Earning a certified paralegal credential may be recognized by some employers and can demonstrate a commitment to the profession.
Certification is typically obtained by passing a certification exam offered by organizations such as:
- The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), which offers the Certified Paralegal (CP) credential
- The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), which provides the Paralegal CORE Competency Exam (PCCE)
Candidates generally need to meet educational requirements and have completed an approved paralegal course or program to be eligible for these exams. Preparing for a certification exam often involves review courses, practice tests, and continued education.
Earning a certification doesn’t replace formal education, but it may help legal support professionals signal their expertise to potential employers.
Paralegal Specializations in Law
Many paralegal programs offer opportunities for students to focus their studies on a specific area of law. Specializing in a specific area of law allows paralegals to deepen their knowledge and experience in that field.
Family Law
Paralegals in family law work on cases involving divorce, child custody, and domestic partnerships. They help draft legal documents, manage timelines, and support clients through emotionally complex situations.
Criminal Law
A criminal law paralegal might assist with gathering evidence, preparing court exhibits, or managing communication between attorneys and clients. Their work helps support the fast-paced demands of defense or prosecution teams.
Intellectual Property
In intellectual property law, paralegals help protect ideas, trademarks, and inventions. Their work may include filing applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or conducting legal research on copyright claims.
Specialization doesn’t typically require additional degrees, but relevant experience and continuing education can help students deepen their expertise.
Typical Job Duties of Paralegals
Paralegals may be responsible for a broad range of tasks, with their responsibilities shaped by the needs of their employer and area of law. Despite variation across roles, some job duties are consistent.
Paralegals may:
- Conduct legal research to help attorneys build cases
- Assist with drafting legal documents, such as contracts, pleadings, and discovery requests
- Organize files and manage case documentation
- Help with interviewing clients or witnesses to gather relevant details
While paralegals work under attorney supervision, they must be self-directed, organized, and able to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Ethical conduct, especially regarding confidentiality, is also a core component of the profession.
Preparing for a Career as a Paralegal
The path to becoming a paralegal generally involves education, practical experience, and professional development. Common entry points include associate or bachelor’s degrees with legal coursework, certificate programs, and continuing education. These academic pathways provide training in skills such as legal research, writing, and case preparation.
When evaluating paralegal roles, individuals may consider their interests, preferred work settings, and the types of law they wish to study or support. Paralegals are employed in a range of environments, including law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments, with responsibilities that vary depending on the practice area.
For those interested in law but not pursuing law school, paralegals assist with case preparation, document management, and client support under attorney supervision.