What is it like to be a Paralegal?

I used to be a paralegal. It's hard work, but I loved it. It depends on what kind of law you're doing, but I did estate planning law. Basically the attorneys gave me a worksheet that had the clients' desires on it, and I imputed information into a program and drafted and edited the documents. I looked at it as a huge puzzle that I had to solve. Sometimes, you do take work home with you. you work long hours, have deadlines, etc... it's an exciting job, but if you don't like homework and research, try something else.

The opportunities for a paralegal really depends on the specialty. The most in demand paralegals are those in the litigation field; followed by corporate paralegals who are responsible for maintaining corporate records, articles of incorporation, etc. While the "least" marketable [but the "highest" paid] paralegals are in the field of intellectual property [i.e., patents, trademarks] and immigration law. In conclusion, choose your paralegal courses accordingly, with emphasis on litigation preparation [discovery], docketing/calendaring of incoming pleadings [calendaring] and trial preparation [creating Exhibit tabs, Bajii jury instructions, etc.]. The "pro" side of a litigation paralegal is often "unlimited" overtime which can amount to a high salary range of $65,000 to $75,000 per year, while the "downside," being constantly pressured to meet a monthly client billable quota. And failing to meet that quota, often results in the paralegal's overnight dismissal. It's not a pretty picture. I just want to lay out what really happens in the real world of litigators and their relationship with subordinate paralegals. Good luck!