Given the degree to which training in philosophy is recognized by the American Bar Association as excellent preparation for a career in law (see our career page on “Philosophy as a Pre-Law Major”), it stands to reason that such could also be an aspect of building a competitive paralegal resume.   

What is a Paralegal / Legal Assistant?

The paralegal, or legal assistant, works hand in hand with lawyers. In many ways their duties include the same tasks lawyers who assume responsibility for the legal work do, but paralegals do not practice law and are prohibited from dispensing legal advice, trying a case in court, or accepting legal fees.

Careers include a range of specializations that focus on a specific area of the law, such as: Bankruptcy Paralegal; Corporate Paralegal; Criminal Law Paralegal; Immigration Paralegal; Labor Paralegal; Litigation Paralegal; Personal Injury Paralegal, and Probate and Estate Planning Paralegal.  

How to Become a Paralegal

With no legal requirements for certification or license in the paralegal profession, law offices, and other employers (corporations, government) effectively set the standards for the paralegals they hire. Some firms even hire liberal arts majors as paralegals directly after college and then train them on the job.

For more information, see, “Become a Paralegal.org”, at: https://www.becomeaparalegal.org/how-to-become-a-paralegal/