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How to Become a Labor Law Paralegal

The path toward becoming a paralegal with any specialty is first to earn a paralegal certification or an associate’s degree in paralegal studies. While a degree is not necessary to enter the profession and some companies may train on the job, the training and education from a certification or associate’s degree would give one a competitive edge in a job market that attracts many young job seekers. Additional courses in labor law, as well as the more general subjects of contracts and litigation, would also better prepare a certified paralegal to move into this specialty with success.

Job Description and Duties of a Labor Law Paralegal

Paralegals are completing more and more advanced work that was traditionally only done by licensed attorneys. They complete their work under the supervision of a lawyer, but the scope of their work is growing, as it is more cost effective for attorneys to delegate more tasks to paralegals. Additionally, as the law becomes more specialized, paralegal jobs do as well. As more experience is gained, a paralegal can become even more focused on certain aspects of labor law.

Labor law paralegals are more often employed in a legal department of a corporation, but may also work in a law firm, working on cases representing people or companies in labor disputes. Assisting attorneys in handling union negotiations or employee contracts are some things that a labor law paralegal is likely to deal with. They may also specialize in representing plaintiffs and assist attorneys in handling harassment or discrimination litigation. Some specific job duties might include writing or summarizing pleadings, minor motions, or other documents for a case, assisting in writing contracts, or keeping track of case progress or deadlines.

Salary and Job Outlook of a Labor Law Paralegal

The paralegal’s salary will vary and depend on experience, region, and employer, and is generally higher in corporate settings. According to Legal Assistant Today, the average salary for paralegals overall in 2007 was $53,979. The average salary in 2007 for a labor law paralegal was $47,279 in a law firm, and $67,100 in a corporate setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, because the use of paralegals is very cost-effective, it will continue to be a job in high demand.

Accredited 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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