For some individuals, choosing a career is as simple as following a lifelong passion—perhaps you had a childhood dream of becoming a paleontologist, or maybe you developed an unshakable interest in teaching. However, for others, finding the right job can be a painstaking process that involves shadowing current professionals and conducting plenty of Internet research.
This research often begins with educational requirements and salary expectations. And while salary is certainly a primary consideration, there are many reasons to enter a career field. When it comes to the paralegal profession, these factors can be just as (if not more) rewarding than salary alone. For example, consider these five reasons to become a paralegal:
1. Employment outlook
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected job growth for paralegals from 2014 to 2024 is eight percent. Roughly 20,000 additional positions will be available by the year 2024, or about 2,000 every 12 months (assuming consistent growth). This may seem like an unremarkable number, but it represents a one percent increase over the national average for all industries. (Lawyers, in comparison, enjoy only six percent growth.) While these statistics are purely predictive, and could change due to factors like the economy, future paralegals can anticipate a job outlook that is slightly stronger than the American average.
2. Flexible working arrangements
2016 data provided by the National Association of Legal Assistants suggests that almost half (44%) of the paralegal workforce enjoys some form of a flexible work arrangement. 15% of employers allow telecommuting (also known as work from home). 29% of employers do not offer flextime, but they do accommodate temporary scheduling issues, such as those related to personal health or the health of a family member. Whether you wish to work in a traditional law office environment or from your home office, the availability of alternate or flexible arrangements can be invaluable in the case of an emergency.
3. Varied responsibilities
Depending on the paralegal specialty and work environment that you choose, your day-to-day responsibilities may be rich and varied. Paralegals may accompany attorneys to court, as well as conduct client and witness interviews. They also undertake documentary, legal, and statistical research as part of ongoing investigations. They may draft important legal documents or summarize key legal proceedings, as well as write correspondence. (For a full picture of responsibilities according to specialty, review this document from the National Association of Legal Assistants.) An exciting and fast-paced day-to-day experience is one of the most enticing reasons to become a paralegal.
4. Opportunities for continuing education
The National Association of Legal Assistants reports that 92% of paralegals attended legal education seminars in 2016. 55% participated in a professional association, and 28% enrolled in applicable courses at a community college or an online program. In general, continuing or professional education was more prevalent in 2016 than it was in 2014, and this sampling is just a small glimpse of the options available to paralegals! Individuals who enjoy learning and mastering new concepts and skills may thrive in this field, particularly those with a passion for law.
5. Deep and lasting impact
Do you enjoy working closely with people? If you possess strong interpersonal skills, or wish to further develop your abilities, a career as a paralegal may be right for you. Paralegals often interact with attorneys, clients, court personnel, and other law office staff, including their fellow paralegals. But what is more appealing is their ability to create a deep and lasting impact on people. As a paralegal, you may work with individuals who desperately require assistance, or individuals who are celebrating momentous events in their lives. From assisting with adoption paperwork to aiding in a criminal investigation, you can make a true difference in someone’s life.
The paralegal profession ranks 15th on U.S. News & World Report’s 2017 list of best social services jobs. With a host of benefits, including a 2.8 percent unemployment rate that is lower than the national average of 4.4 percent, now is an excellent time to become a paralegal. Whether you enjoy helping people, continually learning new knowledge and skills, or the security of a bright career outlook, job satisfaction is available in abundance.
To learn more about becoming a paralegal, contact the Center for Advanced Legal Studies. With both in-person and remote programs available, your paralegal career can begin here.
