From College Grad to Paralegal

Congratulations! You've graduated college (or are about to) and now you haven't a clue where to start a career or how to get your feet under you financially. You'd consider working as a paralegal, if you knew what that might entail. Before you take on the legal field, grab some insight in our College Grad's Paralegal Guide. If you're curious about what it really means to be a paralegal, read on below.

Introduction for College Grads

At the small liberal arts college I attended, there was no pre-law program or even a law school. I was not involved with the law journal and only dabbled on the mock trial team for a bit. Needless to say, my experience in the legal field was quite limited when I applied to become a paralegal at a small law firm outside New York City. From what I can tell, most people applying right out of college have had little to no prior experience as a paralegal and the opportunity to become a paralegal is open to all majors. So if you have never so much as read the Constitution, do not despair (although you really should go take a gander at that).

Why become a paralegal? In the U.S. there is 1 lawyer for every 265 Americans (wiki). As a college graduate, there is a strong possibility that you will attend law school. Taking a job as a paralegal can offer you a taste of what being a lawyer entails, the different kinds of law practice, and whether you might enjoy a legal career.

From College Grad to Paralegal

Generally, paralegal jobs filled by recent college graduates are assumed for a term of 1-2 years. By which point, you should have figured out your law school intentions and taken the LSAT. Or if you're like me, you've figured out you don't want to attend law school (at least not at this point) and you've planned for your next career jump. Either way, paralegaling is a great way to develop your work experience and office skills, build up that resume, and get yourself on your feet in the adjustment to life after college.

The College Grad's Paralegal Guide

To learn more about life as a paralegal, we've compiled a short guide into our daily life. It's not all photocopying, we promise (that would make for a terribly dull blog). Check back soon for updates to the College Grad's Paralegal Guide. Some topics we hope to cover in the coming weeks:

-Daily Life of a Paralegal
-Big Firm v. Small Firm
-All Types of Law Practice
-First Day on the Job: Be Prepared for...
-Blunders

Until then, feel free to contact us with specific questions.