Train to Become a Paralegal Online

Certified paralegals play an extremely important role in the legal industry. This 100% online course will prepare you for the Certified Paralegal (CP) exam, offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). You’ll learn how to perform a variety of tasks that paralegals experience every day, such as legal research, interviews, analysis and more.

“It was different than going to a classroom, but I really enjoyed this course! Now that I‘ve finished, I help file motions for everything from reopening cases to filing for telephonic appeals,” Sonjie A.

Job Outlook for Paralegals

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for paralegals will grow by 15% through 2026, which is faster than most other positions.

The BLS states that the average annual salary for paralegals is $50,000. However, salary can increase depending on your law specialty and your experience level.

Paralegals FAQs

WHAT DOES A PARALEGAL DO?

Paralegals perform many duties that attorneys also perform themselves. Paralegals can conduct legal research; draft contracts, pleadings, and other legal documents; answer client questions and help prepare for trial.

IS PARALEGAL A GOOD JOB?

U.S. News and World Report listed paralegal as #2 on its list of “Best Jobs that Don’t Require a College Degree.” Paralegals were also included on the “The 100 Best Jobs” list overall based on the salary, job market, potential growth and work-life balance.

CAN PARALEGALS SPECIALIZE?

Yes. Paralegals can choose to specialize in different types of law such as criminal, family, immigration, real estate, etc.

IS A PARALEGAL THE SAME AS A LEGAL SECRETARY?

No. Paralegals are responsible for performing many of the tasks an attorney would do otherwise, such as conducting legal research or preparing a case file. They are often viewed as an extension of the attorney. Legal secretaries fill a more administrative role within the law firm.

CAN PARALEGALS WORK IN ANY STATE?

Yes. Paralegals can work in any state because unlike attorneys, paralegals are not bound to a specific state licensing board. In other words, a paralegal certification is valuable nationwide.

CAN YOU GO FROM BEING A PARALEGAL TO A LAWYER?

Yes, you can go from a paralegal to a lawyer. Starting as a paralegal can provide great insight into how the legal system works. However, you will need a bachelor’s degree before you can apply for law school and pass a state bar exam.

Course Objectives

Learn the common responsibilities and duties of paralegals within the US legal system.

Be fully prepared to sit for the Certified Paralegal certification exam, offered by NALA.

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

Curriculum

PARALEGAL IN THE LEGAL SYSTEM

PARALEGAL EMPLOYMENT

ON-THE-JOB REALITIES

REGULATION OF PARALEGALS

ATTORNEY AND PARALEGAL ETHICS

INTRODUCTION TO THE LEGAL SYSTEM

INTRODUCTION TO LEGAL ANALYSIS

LEGAL INTERVIEWING

INVESTIGATION IN A LAW OFFICE

LITIGATION MANAGEMENT

LEGAL RESEARCH 101

ADVANCED LEGAL RESEARCH

LEGAL WRITING

INTRODUCTION TO THE USE OF COMPUTERS

INTRODUCTION TO LAW OFFICE ADMINISTRATION

TORT LAW, PRODUCT LIABILITY, AND CONSUMER LAW

CONTRACTS, INSURANCE, AND PROPERTY LAW

ESTATES AND FAMILY LAW

LAWS AFFECTING BUSINESS

CRIMINAL LAW

CAPSTONE

PORTFOLIO LESSON

FINAL EXAM

Instructors

Casey Thompson

Casey Thompson is a licensed attorney in Texas. Before he started teaching, his major areas of practice were business and corporate law, entertainment law and intellectual property rights. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas Tech University and holds a law degree from the Texas A&M School of Law.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.