Albany Business Daily

What does attorneys look for when hiring a newly grad paralegal?

I'm 33 years old and I decided to go back to get my paralegal degree. I live in Illinois and I don't have any experience in this field, but I will be willing to orientate to the position. Should I continue to get my bachelors degree or should I just focus on the paralegal certificate? Are degrees from online programs acceptable for the lawfirms in Illinois? What's the best thing for me to do? Please only serious attorneys or professional within a law firm reply! Thanks..

Public Comments

1. It is very, very difficult to get into a paralegal position with no experience, pretty much impossible. They all want 3+ years experience and a 2 year degree only substitutes for 1 year. I got my associates degree in paralegal studies and for a whole year tried to find a law firm to hire me without any experience...well I couldn't find one. I had to start at a law office as a legal secretary and work my way up the ladder. A certificate from an online program is not worth anything. If you are serious about this then you should get your associates or bachelors in paralegal studies. You can find a list of institutions in your area that are American Bar Association accredited on the ABA's website. Here's the link... http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/il.html Non ABA accredited places are no good and potential employers will not be impressed, just as they won't be impressed by a mere certifcate or something from an online program. They want to see that you are dedicated, committed and a hard worker. A simple certificate or something from an online program shows that you are not. My advice to you is to try and get your foot in the door at a law office NOW, start as a legal secretary, receptionist or clerk. Build up law office experience while you go to school. That way, when you graduate you have a degree and law office experience, even though it isn't paralegal experience, it is better than nothing. And while you are finishing school, talk to your employer about the possibility of promotion once you complete your degree. If you plan ahead your transition into the legal field and into a paralegal position won't be too difficult. Best of luck to you!!