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How to Become a Family Law Paralegal
Becoming a family law paralegal is best achieved by earning either a certification in paralegal studies or an associate degree in paralegal studies. Neither is required to enter the field, but a certification or degree would greatly help achieve a competitive edge in an increasingly competitive job market for family law paralegals. Further training in the area of family law can sometimes be obtained in various courses focusing on this speciliaty or once on the job.
Job Description and Duties of a Family Law Paralegal
A family law paralegal's job can vary greatly even within this specialty, depending on their experience level and employer. Many of their tasks however go well beyond filing and paperwork. While they are prohibited from work that amounts to practicing law, such as giving legal advice or setting fees, they are taking on more and more duties that were formerly only done by attorneys. The more experienced and capable a paralegal becomes, the more advanced their responsibilities will become as well. It is more cost-effective for lawyers to delegate tasks to paralegals working under their supervision, and this is a trend that will continue.
Salary and Job Outlook for a Family Law Paralegal
According to Legal Assistant Today, the annual salary for all paralegals in 2007 was $52,979, which was a 3.7% increase. A paralegal's salary can vary greatly however, and depends on the specialty as well as on their employer, experience, and even region. The average salary in 2007 for a family law paralegal was $39,078. Paralegals often receive bonuses as well, and most enjoy the perks of a 401 savings plan, paid sick leave, vacation time, and medical and dental insurance. Further legal education is sometimes funded as well.
The paralegal profession is expected to grow, and will continue to become more specialized as the law profession does. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projected a 16% growth rate from 2006 to 2016, which is a higher rate of growth than for most occupations.
(Sources: BLS, Legal Assistant Today, Paralegal Careers by Angela Schneeman)
Find paralegal programs below that can help you prepare for and be competitive in the family law paralegal field. Request information from the schools that meet your needs and goals.
Accredited Paralegal Degree 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
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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Program outcomes vary according to each institution's specific curriculum and employment opportunities are not guaranteed.