• Paralegal Careers by Specialty
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How to Become a Litigation Paralegal

While there are no official licenses are requirements for becoming a paralegal, to be competitive in the field one usually earns an associate degree in paralegal studies or a paralegal certification. The latter is a more intensive program, and can be earned after earning a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in a related field, although a prior degree is not necessary. Additional training or education in the area of litigation would help in gaining entry into this specialized area of paralegal work. Online paralegal certification programs are increasing and can help you gain the necessary training for this growing field

Litigation Paralegal Duties and Job Description

While paralegals are forbidden from performing tasks that are considered practicing law, such as administering advice or setting fees, they can complete a variety of tasks under the supervision of lawyers, and the scope of their work is growing. The tasks are varied according to the organization and field of specialty, but increasingly paralegals are being delegated more work that was previously completed by an attorney.

Under supervision of a lawyer, a litigation paralegal may gather facts and investigate for a case, summarize depositions, do legal research, search files for legal research on similar cases, locate and interview witnesses, manage documents, or help with many other aspects of trial preparation. Good research skills are imperative, as is a thorough understanding of the litigation process. Additionally, because they may be preparing so many documents and writing various summaries, good writing and analytical skills are very important for the litigation paralegal.

Salary and Job Outlook for Litigation Paralegals

While a paralegal’s salary can vary greatly according to region and experience, litigation paralegals are among the higher paid specializations. According to the publication Legal Assistant Today, the average litigation paralegal salary in 2007 was $62,223 in a corporate legal setting, and $53,615 in a law firm.

The legal industry has grown tremendously, and paralegal jobs have mirrored this, as their employment is more cost-effective for companies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for all paralegals have been projected to grow 22% between the years of 2006 and 2016.

Below you will find a number of reputable online paralegal programs which can help adequately prepare you for a career as a litigation paralegal. Request information from the schools that interest you to learn more about their online programs. If you are looking for campus based programs, you may search here for paralegal programs by state to find a school that best fits your needs.

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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