Paralegal

Assist lawyers by investigating facts, preparing legal documents, or researching legal precedent. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.

Educational Requirements

for Paralegals and Legal Assistants
The typical entry level education for this occupation is a associate’s degree. Those with a bachelor’s degree have a competitive advantage in the labor market.

Knowledge

Examples of the knowledge needed for success in this occupation is listed below, in order of importance.
  • English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Law and Government: Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
  • Clerical: Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.

Skills

Examples of the skills needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Reading Comprehension: Reading work-related information.
  • Active Listening: Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
  • Speaking: Talking to others.
  • Writing: Writing things for co-workers or customers.

Abilities

Examples of the abilities needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Oral Expression: Communicating by speaking.
  • Oral Comprehension: Listening and understanding what people say.
  • Written Comprehension: Reading and understanding what is written.
  • Written Expression: Communicating by writing.
  • Speech Clarity: Speaking clearly.

Detailed Work Activities

Examples of the detailed work activities involved with this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Prepare legal documents.
  • Represent the interests of clients in legal proceedings.
  • Meet with individuals involved in legal processes to provide information and clarify issues.
  • Confer with court staff to clarify information.
  • Research relevant legal materials to aid decision making.