Is anyone a paralegal?

[DJFyrewolf36]

Or do you know one? I am thinking about going back to school for it and would like more information as to what the job is actually like. From what I read on carreer sites and such it involves a lot of research and writing which are both things I actually enjoy. I realize Im not going to be young forever and I need to get out of doing physical jobs as I don't think I'm going to be able to handle it forever. I admire anyone who can! Also Im sure in this economy, an education couldn't hurt anything, and it seems like anything involving the law expects to see an increase in employment. (I wonder why )

Quitting school ranks up there as the dumbest thing I could have done. Its time to get back on the horse and do something with myself.

[happylabs]

I am not a paralegal but my job involves some paralegal duties. I have never had formal training but have worked in the legal profession most of my working life--30 years (wow am I that old?!). It does involve doing research, writing briefs and other documents for the lawyers. You will do a lot of typing most likely. I think it is an interesting profession.

[Cataholic]

I think paralegals have VERY interesting jobs- varied in the day to day tasks. I often say that the law is recession proof. People 'need' lawyers when times are good, and sometimes more when times are bad. And, people still die, divorce, buy property, form (and dissolve) companies, adopt, etc.

What I would encourage you to do is go to law school!

[Prairie Purrs]

I taught paralegal studies for about 10 years, so feel free to PM me with any questions you might have.

The short answer to "What does a paralegal do" is "Whatever a lawyer wants him/her to do, as long as it doesn't involve actually practicing law." Some paralegals do a lot of legal secretarial work, while others do research, writing, fact-checking, and the like. The work tends to vary with the nature of the practice. Bankruptcy paralegals need to be familiar with the relevant forms, while litigation paralegals will be expected to stay on top of filing deadlines.

[DJFyrewolf36]

Cataholic: I honestly would love to go to law school! I need to figure out a way to get some serious financial help though. I already have one student loan out on me, its been being paid on for 7 years now and isn't paid down that much .


Thanks for the responses! I will think of some specific questions to ask you Purrs

[Cataholic]

I went to law school completely on loans. And, yes, 10 years later, I am still paying them back. It can be done. Do you have a 4 year undergrad degree from somewhere? Here, there is a school that offers a part-time 4 year program that works super well for those needing to work while attending school. I don't know if that is an option for you in your area?

I went back to school at the advanced age of 29 (30 3 months after school began). And, I was completely dependent free, living with my mother.