• Paralegal Careers by Specialization
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How to Become a Bankruptcy Paralegal

No official license is required to become a bankruptcy paralegal. However, in order to be competitive in this field, one should obtain either an associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies, or obtain a paralegal certification, which is obtained in a shorter time but is a more intensive program. The latter can be obtained without another degree, or can compliment a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Some certification programs may require a bachelor’s degree. Further training can also be obtained in this specialty for an extra competitive edge.

Bankruptcy Paralegal Duties

The duties of a paralegal in a bankruptcy case are broad, and they can complete work at almost every step of the bankruptcy process. Bankruptcy cases generally involve a high volume of standard forms that need to be processed in the courts in a timely fashion, and paralegals can complete most of this paperwork. The use of trained paralegals in this manner has increased because it is very cost-effective for both clients and companies who employ the paralegals.

Paralegals in this specialty can work to help represent creditors or debtors, and they must have broad knowledge of bankruptcy procedures for the state in which they are employed. They may work with a law staff for private companies, lending institutions, or public agencies, although most work for law firms. Some job duties could include filing as well as writing proof of claims, providing documents that support the claims, managing files, or providing updates on the development of the case. When working for debtors, paralegals can help guide them through the process that can be stressful and fraught with questions.

Salary and Job Outlook for Bankruptcy Paralegals

The paralegal’s salary will vary and depend on experience, region, and employer. According to Legal Assistant Today, in 2007 the average salary for a Bankruptcy Paralegal in a law firm setting was $43,380. The average paralegal salary overall in 2007 was $53,979, which was a 3.7% increase.

The paralegal profession will continue to grow, and bankruptcy is one specialty that is expected to be in great demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, all paralegal jobs regardless of specialty have been projected to grow 22% between 2006 and 2016. During recessions, this is a specialty of paralegal work that will stay in demand, as both companies and individuals will need their skills and services.

An important first step to a successful paralegal career is to find a training program that fits your needs on both a professional and personal level. Here you will find an assortment of accredited paralegal training programs ranging from certificates to associates, bachelor's, and even master's programs. Request information from the schools that interest you below.

Online Accredited Paralegal Programs

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Bryant & Stratton College : Bryant & Stratton College Online is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, one of the six regional accreditation agencies recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

Virginia College: Virginia College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), which is an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

Kaplan University - School of Legal Studies: The Kaplan University School of Legal Studies is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, which is recognized by the NFPA and NALA. In addition to meeting the NFPA and NALA work experience requirements, graduates of the Kaplan University paralegal programs will be eligible to sit for the NFPA-PACE Exam and the NALA CLA Exam. Request no obligation information from these paralegal programs today.

AAS in Paralegal Studies
BS in Paralegal Studies
BS in Legal Studies
Post-Baccalaureate Pathway to Paralegal Certificate
Advanced Start in BS Paralegal Studies

Herzing University Online: Herzing University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, which is an accrediting body recognized by the US Department of Education. Graduates of the AS in Legal Assisting and Paralegal program are eligible to sit for the Certified Legal Assistant and Certified Paralegal exams administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

AS in Legal Assisting and Paralegal
BS in Legal Studies

Colorado Technical University/Stonecliffe College: Stonecliffe College Online offers one of the most up to date and accredited paralegal associate degree programs in the country. Students are educated in document organization systems, handling document production, how to write legal correspondence and other relevant skills necessary for paralegal career preparation. Colorado Technical University paralegal programs are accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Graduates will be eligible to sit for the NFPA-PACE Exam and the NALA CLA Exam, with the required work experience.

A.S. Paralegal Studies

George Washington University: This program is identical to the on-campus master's program offered at GW, but offered entirely online..

Master of Professional Studies in Paralegal Studies

Minnesota School of Business: Request information from the online paralegal program today.

Associate's in Paralegal
Bachelor's in Paralegal

Everest University Online: The Everest College Online paralegal associate and bachelor degree programs are widely recognized for graduating some of the most qualified and successful paralegals in the country. Everest College, formerly known as Florida Metropolitan University, ranked in the top 100 paralegal schools by www.paralegal100.com. Everest College Online is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, which with the required work experience, makes graduates eligible to sit for the NFPA-PACE Exam and the NALA CLA Exam.

Paralegal Associate's Degree
Paralegal Bachelor's Degree

Keiser University: E-Campus Online Programs. Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, which is recognized as a national accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

South University: South University is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The University is also a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)

Associate's in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

Southwest Florida College Online: Request information from the associate's in Paralegal Studies program today.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

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