gal assistant must have working knowledge of computers and technology. It is essential that they know legal terminology and basic law. A paralegal needs to be able to document findings so that they are understandable. Research and investigative skills are essential. Staying informed of new developments in laws willLegal Assistant, or paralegal, is one of the fastest growing career tracks today. More companies are favoring legal assistants over attorneys to keep overhead costs down. Even so, attorneys still account for hiring seven out of ten paralegals.

Paralegals perform many of the same tasks as attorneys. They prepare for closings, hearings, trials and corporate meetings. A legal assistant will also research and investigate facts relevant to a case such as laws, judicial decisions and legal articles. They write reports, help with legal arguments and draft pleadings and motions for the courtroom. Obtaining affidavits and assisting at trial are also duties of a paralegal. They organize and track files, make them available and easily accessed for the attorney. They may also draft contracts, mortgages, separation agreements and trusts. In short, they may do nearly everything an attorney does with the exception of actual courtroom work.

Legal assistants generally complete associate’s degrees geared especially for that field. Many two and four year colleges offer such programs. For those who may already have a degree, there are certificate programs available. Be prepared to attend seminars aimed at continuing education in this field.

A legal assistant must have working knowledge of computers and technology. It is essential that they know legal terminology and basic law. A paralegal needs to be able to document findings so that they are understandable. Research and investigative skills are essential. Staying informed of new developments in laws will

re for closings, hearings, trials and corporate meetings. A legal assistant will also research and investigate facts relevant to a case such as laws, judicial decisions and legal articles. They write reports, help with legal arguments and draft pleadings and motions for the courtroom. Obtaining affidavits and assisting at trial are also duties of a paralegal. They organize and track files, make them available and easily accessed for the attorney. They may also draft contracts, mortgages, separation agreements and trusts. In short, they may do nearly everything an attorney does with the exception of actual courtroom work.

Legal assistants generally complete associate’s degrees geared especially for that field. Many two and four year colleges offer such programs. For those who may already have a degree, there are certificate programs available. Be prepared to attend seminars aimed at continuing education in this field.

A legal assistant must have working knowledge of computers and technology. It is essential that they know legal terminology and basic law. A paralegal needs to be able to document findings so that they are understandable. Research and investigative skills are essential. Staying informed of new developments in laws will

sting at trial are also duties of a paralegal. They organize and track files, make them available and easily accessed for the attorney. They may also draft contracts, mortgages, separation agreements and trusts. In short, they may do nearly everything an attorney does with the exception of actual courtroom work.

Legal assistants generally complete associate’s degrees geared especially for that field. Many two and four year colleges offer such programs. For those who may already have a degree, there are certificate programs available. Be prepared to attend seminars aimed at continuing education in this field.

A legal assistant must have working knowledge of computers and technology. It is essential that they know legal terminology and basic law. A paralegal needs to be able to document findings so that they are understandable. Research and investigative skills are essential. Staying informed of new developments in laws will

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Legal assistants generally complete associate’s degrees geared especially for that field. Many two and four year colleges offer such programs. For those who may already have a degree, there are certificate programs available. Be prepared to attend seminars aimed at continuing education in this field.

A legal assistant must have working knowledge of computers and technology. It is essential that they know legal terminology and basic law. A paralegal needs to be able to document findings so that they are understandable. Research and investigative skills are essential. Staying informed of new developments in laws will

gal assistant must have working knowledge of computers and technology. It is essential that they know legal terminology and basic law. A paralegal needs to be able to document findings so that they are understandable. Research and investigative skills are essential. Staying informed of new developments in laws will keep them at the top of their field. A paralegal deals with the public so courtesy and a strong ethical standard are desired. Most of a legal assistant’s time is spent at a desk or a law library.

Most legal assistants are employed by law firms. Others are hired by corporate legal offices, and still others by government entities. If there is a special area of interest, a legal assistant can specialize. Those employed by corporations and government offices generally work a forty-hour week. Law firm paralegals often work long hours and have deadlines to meet but are often rewarded with bonuses and time off.

The outlook in this field is good. Predictions through 2014 mark this as a fast growing area. Salaries range from $30,000 to over $60,000.

If you like research and law interests you, this may very well be the field for you. It can be tedious at times and exciting at others. The rewards are worth the effort.