How Do I Know If a Paralegal Job Is Right for Me?

by Ruth Mayhew

The number of jobs for paralegals and legal assistants is expected to rise 18 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's slightly higher than the average projected growth rate for all occupations, so there should be numerous opportunities for aspiring paralegals. Deciding if it is the right career for you involves examining what you need from your career, what you have to do to get there, and what the job has to offer.


Your decision to become a paralegal depends on your willingness to get the right training and education. Many paralegals have an associate or bachelor's degree. Paralegal programs are offered through public universities and private training institutes. In addition, there are paralegal certification programs that complement a college degree. Paralegals who have a college degree, plus a paralegal certification, tend to be the most sought-after candidates, especially for top-tier law firms. If you already have a college degree and want to earn a paralegal certificate, it could take several months to complete the program. Alternatively, you might be able to find a paralegal role with a firm that will train you on the mechanics and technical aspects of paralegal work, provided you have the basic qualifications and core competencies.

Job Duties

Most paralegals must be willing to take on a broad range of responsibilities. you might perform legal research; conduct investigations; and draft motions, legal briefs, legal reports and correspondence. Paralegals with extensive client and witness contact conduct interviews and prepare case summaries. Other paralegals work on cases such as medical malpractice lawsuits, where they use such specialized knowledge in health care training to prepare chronologies and assess medical records. If you're resourceful and naturally inquisitive, you may enjoy a paralegal career because being a part of a legal team requires analytical and critical thinking skills.

Work Environment

Decide what kind of work environment you prefer before committing to a career as a paralegal. Nearly two-thirds of paralegals work for law firms, and most of the rest of the jobs are split between corporate legal departments, government entities and nonprofit organizations. The working conditions might include private offices, normal business hours and a professional dress code. If you're comfortable in an office setting for the vast majority of your workday, you could enjoy being a paralegal. However, if you want the flexibility of a casual workplace, opportunities to interact with the general public throughout the day, or enjoy an outdoor work environment, working in an office setting as a paralegal may not suit your preferences.

Professional Development

Define your career aspirations. Working as a paralegal enhances your research, writing and analytical skills, in addition to giving you an understanding of legal processes. These are valuable, transferable skills useful for jobs inside or outside a law firm environment. Working closely with lawyers -- particularly at sole practitioners and small law firms -- can give you hands-on experience in high-level and complex legal duties and responsibilities. Just be aware that unless you go to law school, you won't be promoted to partner. A close working relationship with the lawyers you report to also may be helpful if you're looking for a mentor to help you decide whether to pursue a law degree.

Hours and Commitment

If work-life balance is high on your list of priorities, you might be happier working for a corporation instead of a law firm. This is particularly true if you're considering a career as a litigation paralegal at a busy trial firm. It's not uncommon for litigation paralegals to pull all-nighters preparing for trial. However, the gratification from playing an integral role in a successful trial may justify the late hours and level of commitment.

Other Considerations

If you want to earn a higher-than-average salary, then becoming a paralegal is a good choice. As of May 2010, the median annual wage for paralegals was $46,680, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That compares to an average of $33,840 for all occupations. The pay for paralegals who work for nonprofit organizations, such as legal aid societies, tends to be lower than the average. However, the level of job satisfaction might be higher if you want a career that fulfills your career development needs and your desire to help others. Paralegals who work for legal aid and public interest groups often have a personal connection to their work and the services their employers provide to communities.

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