• Paralegal Specializations
• Paralegal Programs by State

CORPORATE LAW PARALEGAL

There are a few ways to become a corporate paralegal, but most entrants in the field obtain an associates degree in paralegal studies, and those who have already obtained a bachelor’s degree often earn a certificate in paralegal studies. Applicants with a bachelor's in Paralegal will have the greatest opportunities with top firms. Although some employers will provide on the job training to an applicant straight out of high school, obtaining at least an associate's degree in paralegal studies from an accredited paralegal program would offer a competitive advantage in the labor market.

While a corporate paralegal’s duties can vary greatly depending on the employer, their list of tasks is increasing as lawyers delegate more and more duties to their legal assistants or paralegals. Some of the duties that corporate paralegals may perform include monitoring government regulations, helping prepare financial reports, assisting with employee contracts, shareholder agreements, and employee benefit plans.

Corporate paralegals also generally need to have good interpersonal skills, and be able to utilize technology for basic legal research. Additionally, successful paralegals should stay abreast of basic developments or changes in the area of corporate law.

Job Outlook for Corporate Paralegals

According to studies conducted by Legal Assistant Today, an independent resource for the paralegal profession, the national average corporate paralegal salary increased 3.9% in 2007. Corporate paralegals are one of the highest paid in the paralegal profession, with a 2007 average national salary of $61,000.

Paralegal jobs have been projected to grow 22% between the years of 2006 and 2016, which is much higher than average job growth. Many corporations will hire paralegals to do work formerly hired out to lawyers as a way to cut costs. Job openings are also projected to increase as many people leave the profession due to retirement and other factors. Additionally, corporate paralegals can potentially fare better than other professions during periods of economic downturn. While corporations and individuals might halt discretionary litigation, there may also be a surge of needed corporate paralegal services for an increase in bankruptcies, divorces, or foreclosures, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Take the first step toward a career as a corporate paralegal by researching the online paralegal programs below. Online paralegal programs offer a more flexible schedule for students that want more of a work, life balance while pursuing their education. If a campus based or ABA approved program is preferred, then visit the Paralegal Programs by State page to find a local or ABA approved paralegal program.

Online Paralegal Programs

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Kaplan University - School of Legal Studies: The Paralegal Studies Department at Kaplan University, is nationally recognized and offers the top paralegal programs in the country, including one of the leading paralegal associate degree programs. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Graduates with work experience are eligible to sit for the NFPA Pace exam.

AAS in Paralegal Studies
BS in Paralegal Studies
Advanced Start in BS Paralegal Studies
Advanced Start in BS Legal Studies
BS in Legal 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

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. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

A.S. Paralegal Studies

Everest University Online: The Everest University Online paralegal associate degree program is widely recognized for graduating some of the most qualified and successful paralegals in the country. Let Everest help you pursue your paralegal education and career goals. Request information today! Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Paralegal Associate's Degree
Paralegal Bachelor's Degree

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

Hodges University: Graduates of the Paralegal program are eligible to sit for the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) exam.

Associate's in Paralegal
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

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

Minnesota School of Business: Request information from the online paralegal program today. Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Certificate in Paralegal
Associate's in Paralegal
Bachelor's in Paralegal

Post University: Post University is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE) of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), a national accrediting agency recognized by the United States Board of Education.

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

Westwood College: You can earn an Associate's degree in Paralegal Studies in as little as 20 months. Westwood College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCS).

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

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