Paralegals @ Criminal Justice Careers | Schools


Paralegals CJC Staff

Paralegals play a huge part in the criminal justice system. Paralegals are also called Legal Assistants and do just that. They assume the job of assisting the Lawyer. Through the years Paralegals have assumed many of the tasks once completed by Lawyers. Regardless because they aren’t Lawyers the legal system prevents them from issuing legal advice or presenting court cases. Paralegals help Lawyers prepare for trials, and hearings. They work hand and hand with the Lawyer to verify facts and materials to be presented at assigned cases. Paralegals also present written reports to Lawyers providing them information on how they should proceed with the case. Essentially Paralegals are the right hand of Attorneys.

Most Paralegals are employed by law firms and private company legal departments. A Paralegal can work in many different areas of the law.

Paralegals usually work a standard 40 hour work week, however if given a case deadline they may work substantially more hours as they prepare for trial.

How To Become A Paralegal


There are two year programs at many community colleges to become a Paralegal. In addition for those who already possess a college degree there are Paralegal Certificate Programs to help a person get into the field of Paralegal. Some straight Paralegal certificate programs only take a few months to complete getting the student into the work world quickly. Usually the certificate programs offer accelerated programs for those who already hold college degrees.

Job Outlook For Paralegals


The U.S. Government states the Paralegals is a field that will see rapid employment growth. With that said many people are entering the Paralegal field. Growth in the field of Paralegal is expected to grow 22 percent between the years 2006 and 2016. Legal firms are trying to reduce costs by having Paralegals complete tasks once completed by Lawyers.

Consider entering the school of your choice to become a part of the rapidly growing career choice of Paralegal.

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