paralegal courses

paralegal courses questions and answers

More information about paralegal courses at Education News.

Q: Why is it so hard to get a job as a Paralegal?
I have taken some paralegal courses from the local university and I have my bachelor's degree, but I cannot seem to get hired on doing what I want to do. Most places say they want several years experience, but how are you supposed to get any experience if no one will hire you? Any advice from paralegals out there would be appreciated.

A: Ok, I was in the same boat as you are. Try sending your resumes to every law firm out there (including the city - depending on where you live) in hopes of finding one law firm that is looking for a paralegal or secretary. This is what I did, and the law office that called me back, was a friend of the person that I sent the resume too. I worked there for 8months to gain some experience (as a secretary/ paralegal), and after 6 months of experience, I began to send my resumes out again. It took 8 months, but I was able to find a job with a law office in the city as a paralegal. I would advise you to look on Craigslist.com (they always have job openings). Good Luck

Q: What is required (degree/courses) to be a paralegal?


A: You would first want to check with any requirements in the state you live. Following is some basic information on paralegal education from databases at the library. Some websites to go to are... From the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Department of Labor go to this site http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos114.htm or http://www.meetit.com/ca.php?Q=paralegal Also, from The Career Institute Database ... "Today's paralegal graduates undergo a great deal more training than was required even a few years ago. According to a recent survey of lawyers who work with paralegals, not only should a paralegal have a four-year degree, but they should also seek professional certification. Some employers said they prefer employees to have an education from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved program. There are over 800 paralegal training programs available, two-thirds of them associated with accredited colleges and universities, but only about 200 currently have ABA approval. In addition to college and university programs, many are operated by business or vocational schools. The most rigorous programs last four years and award a bachelor's degree to graduates. ABA approval requires that the institution offer paralegal students 36 general education credits and a minimum of 18 credits in legal specialty courses. Hiring surveys indicate graduates of a four-year program have a clear advantage over those from a two-year certificate program. Here is the suggested curriculum for paralegal studies: Twenty-four semester hours at the college level: English composition/grammar, mathematics, logic/philosophy, speech/communications, earth or natural science, political science/history, sociology and humanities, including philosophy. Electives: Business (accounting, business communication or personnel management), computer science, foreign language, psychology and economics. Legal specialty requirements: Litigation/civil procedure, legal research and writing, real property transaction, business and corporate law, wills, trust and estate planning, family law, torts and contracts. Theory/practice areas: Advanced legal research and writing, advanced litigation/civil procedure, bankruptcy, debtor-creditor rights and administrative law. Also, pension/profit sharing, law office economics and management, tax law, labor relations/employment law, intellectual property, criminal law, immigration law, Social Security law, constitutional, environmental and/or elder law. In addition, an introductory course designed specifically for paralegals to examine ethics and professional responsibility. Computer applications for paralegals may be integrated into applicable courses. In considering a school for your paralegal training, be sure to compare their course offerings with this recommended list. Paralegals need to take courses in a wide range of topics since they will have so many duties to perform once on the job. Many institutions include internships as part of the paralegal's curriculum. Employers also value this real-world experience. In fact, many hire their outstanding interns for entry-level full-time positions, assured that these individuals are trained in procedures and applications tailored to their individual needs. Once in the workforce a paralegal cannot leave education behind. Not if the careerist plans to advance to a higher level. Seminars and special classes offer the opportunity to keep up with legal issues or develop another area of expertise. The Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) is a voluntary measure of excellence paralegals may choose to pursue. A combination of training and experience is required before a paralegal is ready to sit for this exam. You will learn more about PACE during your training program. Course Descriptions What follows is a detailed look at the topics covered in courses typically taught in the training of a paralegal. Family Law An in-depth study of all of the areas of family law encountered by a legal assistant. The course will include divorce, custody, child and spousal support, adoptions, termination of parental rights, and abuse of family members. The student will learn both substantive law and procedure. The course will include the creation of legal pleadings in the family law area. Legal Environment I A survey course on law and society. Its purpose is to orient students to the judicial systems of the United States and the legal remedies and mechanisms at their disposal. It compares and contrasts both civil and equitable court functions through the illustrations of common law contracts, torts, criminal law, property law, and the administration of decedents' estates. Legal Environment II This course is an application of the concepts attained in Legal Environment I, in a business context. Emphasis is placed on general substantive business law topics, including agency, partnerships, corporations, sales, negotiable instruments, and real property. Methods of Legal Research Students learn the traditional legal research materials and brief writing techniques, including use of digests and citations. The course also emphasizes legal research in the area of administrative law. Wills, Trusts, and Estates This course will provide instruction regarding the administration of the probate estate as well as necessary documentation and filing requirements. The student will come to understand the various laws governing the transfer of property at death as well as the tax consequences of such a transfer. The student will also study the creation of trusts and transfers during life. This knowledge will then be applied to the actual drafting of wills, trusts, codicils, and ancillary documents. Administrative Law An in-depth study of various administrative law topics. The student will become familiar with the statutes and regulations supporting Social Security, unemployment compensation, and workman's compensation. The course will also involve study of judicial precedent and mock hearing practice. Civil Litigation An in-depth study of various court procedures, including discovery, which the legal assistant will use in supporting an attorney during litigation. The student will become familiar with the rules of court, including both criminal and civil practice. The course will instruct the legal assistant on how to prepare various court documents. Real Estate for the Paralegal This course will include estates in land, property sales contracts, deed preparation, title abstracts, searching courthouse records, adverse possession, easements, judgments and liens, tax sales, and the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act. The student will learn to complete all necessary documents involved in all real estate transactions and to prepare all histories of title so that the attorney may certify the title and complete closing. Legal Writing This course will be a detailed study of the various writing tasks performed by a paralegal. The student will become proficient at writing legal pleadings, trial briefs, appellate briefs, legal memoranda, demand letters, and informational requests. The student will also become familiar with the various briefing techniques and rules of style. Field Experience An early exposure to types of legal practices for different types of legal programs, including community programs, institutions, and courts. The course will also contain instruction and orientation relative to professional responsibilities, ethics, and practical career considerations for a paralegal. Environmental Law A study of environmental statutes and regulations affecting business organizations. The effects of environmental regulation upon business organizations, employees, stockholders, and officers will be explored with a focus on compliance measures and legal remedies, including development of audit programs." Hope this helps Librarians--Ask Us, We Answer! Find your local Library at http://lists.webjunction.org/libweb/Public_main.html

Q: What should i wear for my paralegal work study program?
I'm about to start a work study for my paralegal course in the spring, But i wanna how should i dress. Please give me examples or outfits. Thanks.

A: Dress as close as possible to the level the other people in the office dress.

Q: Has anyone taken the Paralegal course through Penn Foster?
I am thinking about enrolling with Penn Foster, in the Paralegal department. Just wanted some advice from others who may have done this!

A: I know that it is a good institution , and their programs provide a convenient and affordable way to achieve your career goals.

Q: Do I need special training to become a paralegal?
I'm considering a career change to a paralegal. I have a master's degree in psychology, excellent writing and speaking skills, and decent computer skills. I also currently own my own business, which has been successful for the past 10 years, although I am simply bored and looking for something different to do. The current salary I pull from my business is about $70,000. I understand a paralegal would not make this kind of money, but I wouldn't be doing it for the money. I've taken two undergraduate courses, in intro to the legal system and legal writing, and found both interesting and not difficult. Can I simply put my C.V. out there to legal firms and see what happens, or would I require more paralegal courses to improve my chances of being hired?

A: There are several ways to become a paralegal. The most common is through a community college paralegal program that leads to an associate�s degree. The other common method of entry, mainly for those who already have a college degree, is through a program that leads to a certification in paralegal studies. A small number of schools also offer bachelor�s and master�s degrees in paralegal studies. Some employers train paralegals on the job, hiring college graduates with no legal experience or promoting experienced legal secretaries. Other entrants have experience in a technical field that is useful to law firms, such as a background in tax preparation for tax and estate practice or in criminal justice, nursing, or health administration for personal injury practice. An estimated 1,000 colleges and universities, law schools, and proprietary schools offer formal paralegal training programs. Approximately 260 paralegal programs are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Although many programs do not require such approval, graduation from an ABA-approved program can enhance one�s employment opportunities. The requirements for admission to these programs vary. Some require certain college courses or a bachelor�s degree, others accept high school graduates or those with legal experience, and a few schools require standardized tests and personal interviews. Paralegal programs include 2-year associate degree�s programs, 4-year bachelor�s degree programs, and certificate programs that can take only a few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive and, in some cases, specialized paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees, while associate�s and bachelor�s degree programs usually combine paralegal training with courses in other academic subjects. The quality of paralegal training programs varies; the better programs usually include job placement services. Programs generally offer courses introducing students to the legal applications of computers, including how to perform legal research on the Internet. Many paralegal training programs also offer an internship in which students gain practical experience by working for several months in a private law firm, the office of a public defender or attorney general, a bank, a corporate legal department, a legal aid organization, or a government agency. Experience gained in internships is an asset when one is seeking a job after graduation. Prospective students should examine the experiences of recent graduates before enrolling in a paralegal program. Although most employers do not require certification, earning a voluntary certificate from a professional society may offer advantages in the labor market. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), for example, has established standards for certification requiring various combinations of education and experience. Paralegals who meet these standards are eligible to take a 2-day examination, given three times each year at several regional testing centers. Those who pass this examination may use the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) designation. The NALA also offers an advanced paralegal certification for those who want to specialize in other areas of the law. In addition, the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam, administered through the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, offers professional recognition to paralegals with a bachelor�s degree and at least 2 years of experience. Those who pass this examination may use the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation. Paralegals must be able to document and present their findings and opinions to their supervising attorney. They need to understand legal terminology and have good research and investigative skills. Familiarity with the operation and applications of computers in legal research and litigation support also is important. Paralegals should stay informed of new developments in the laws that affect their area of practice. Participation in continuing legal education seminars allows paralegals to maintain and expand their knowledge of the law. Because paralegals frequently deal with the public, they should be courteous and uphold the ethical standards of the legal profession. The National Association of Legal Assistants, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, and a few States have established ethical guidelines for paralegals to follow. Paralegals usually are given more responsibilities and require less supervision as they gain work experience. Experienced paralegals who work in large law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies may supervise and delegate assignments to other paralegals and clerical staff. Advancement opportunities also include promotion to managerial and other law-related positions within the firm or corporate legal department. However, some paralegals find it easier to move to another law firm when seeking increased responsibility or advancement. Earnings of paralegals and legal assistants vary greatly. Salaries depend on education, training, experience, the type and size of employer, and the geographic location of the job. In general, paralegals who work for large law firms or in large metropolitan areas earn more than those who work for smaller firms or in less populated regions. In addition to earning a salary, many paralegals receive bonuses. In May 2004, full-time wage and salary paralegals and legal assistants had median annual earnings, including bonuses, of $39,130. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,040 and $49,950. The top 10 percent earned more than $61,390, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $25,360. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of paralegals in May 2004 were as follows: Federal Government $59,370 Local government 38,260 Legal services 37,870 State government 34,910

Q: Courses to become a paralegal?
Hello everyone, I'm a 16 year old junior in high school right now. I was planning on taking some college courses at MONTCO community college through my senior year before joining the Marine Corps. I'd like to become a paralegal after the military but wanted to knock out some of the classes now, then hopefully get my associates degree while IRR. Would anyone happen to know any of the exact courses I will need to take? Thank you in advance for any advice. God bless, Kelsey Are you F-ing serious right now? Do not give me that spam shit!

A: OK......here goes..... Warning! Jobs in the field of Law are drying up FAST!!!! This is NOT a good field to invest in!!! Many reasons. Main reason?.......We simply have WAY TOO MANY Legal Professionals - we have a GLUT! "Legal Professionals" includes, but is not limited to: Attorneys/Lawyers, Paralegals, Legal Assistants, Legal Secretaries, Court Reporters, Bailiffs, etc, etc) The economy is SATURATED with Legal Professionals. So...even IF you finish your studies in Law, you probably won't be able to find a job when your are done. The law schools know this, but they continue to churn out graduates - law students are easy money for them. Now.....you would have a HUGE headstart if you go into the military. But forget law. Do what my sister did: Go into Healthcare. <<< LOTS of jobs there!! and scholarships!! If you go into Healthcare into the military, you'll get a HUGE boost! Consider Healthcare if you want a JOB when you are out of the military - my suggestion. Good luck.

Q: I want to take up a paralegal course for a certificate, and I need some advice on the fastest way ?
to get it done. I need a school in NYC that provides a certificate for people who already have a degree ( B.A. in Political Science). I need to get it done asap. Please help!

A: The first poster gave you the only link you need, to the ABA's list of paralegal programs. Check the ones in your area that offer certificate programs. FYI, transitioning into the paralegal profession is not something that is fast. It is not quick. You have to put in your time. Paralegal is not an entry-level position. Even with your BA and a certificate, you might have to start at the bottom (legal secretary, clerk, receptionist) until you gain enough legal experience to qualify as a paralegal. Especially in the new york job market!

Q: i would like to know if there are any community colleges in Boulder,CO which offer paralegal courses? Thanks!?


A: Local results for community colleges near Boulder, CO Naropa University - 0.1 miles E - 2130 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, 80302 - (303) 444-0202 University of Colorado - 0.8 miles S - 914 Broadway St, Boulder, 80302 - (303) 492-1411 Naropa University: Admissions - 0.1 miles E - 2130 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, 80302 - (303) 546-3572

Q: How do I become a paralegal?
How do I become a paralegal? What colleges in LA offer paralegal courses? Thanks!

A: According to this website: http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/ca.html These are the following colleges & universities which offer paralegal degrees and/or certificates in the Los Angeles area (and are ABA approved programs): California State University, Los Angeles Certificate Program in Paralegal Studies 5151 State University Drive Los Angeles, CA 90032-8619 Director: Robin L. Hall, M.S. Telephone: 323.343.4967 Fax: 323.343.4954 Email Us Type of Institution: Public, 4 yr Degrees Offered: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Minimum length of time to complete program: 9 months (entry in Fall or Spring) or 1 yr (any quarter entry) Internships: Elective For more information: www.calstatela.edu/exed/certificate/paralegal.htm Description: Five miles from downtown L.A., founded in 1972, and ABA-approved since 1978, the program operates on a quarter system, and offers three certificate tracks: Litigation, Corporate, and General. The program specializes in assisting students needing to attend classes in the evening, with lifetime placement assistance, entry available every quarter, and with free student information meetings held quarterly. The school is located in a brand-new facility on the university campus, with easy access to the bookstore, food court, registration office, legal library facilities and computer labs. Students receive personalized advisement. Cerritos Community College Paralegal Program 11110 East Alondra Boulevard Norwalk, CA 90650 Director: Gerald I. Stein Telephone: 562.860.2451 x2710 Fax: 562.467.5090 Email Us Type of Institution: Public, 2 yr Degrees Offered: Associate in Arts, Certificate Minimum length of time to complete program: AA-approx. 2 yrs; Certificate-approx. 1-2 semesters Internships: Elective Description: Cerritos Community College is a 2-year public institution located in Los Angeles County just 20 minutes from both downtown Los Angeles and downtown Orange County. We have a strong internship program with over 35 locations to accept our students including private law offices, local courthouses, State Attorney General's Office, community legal aid office, District Attorney's Offices, and the Public Defender's Office. We have a dedicated computer lab with over 30 computers with the latest software for legal applications. Our staff consists of two full-time faculty members who are lawyers and adjunct faculty members including lawyers and paralegals, all of whom have real world experience. Students who have completed an AA degree or higher when they enter our program can earn a Paralegal Certificate by taking 21 units of Paralegal courses. Coastline Community College Paralegal Studies Program 11460 Warner Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Director: Margaret Lovig Telephone: 714.546.7000 x17319 Fax: 714.751.3806 Email Us Degrees Offered: Associate Degree; Certificate El Camino College Paralegal Studies Program 16007 Crenshaw Boulevard Torrance, CA 90506 Director: Marlene Hoover Telephone: 310.660.3789 Fax: 310.660.3774 Email Us Type of Institution: Public, 2 yr Degrees Offered: Associate in Science, Certificate of Competence Minimum length of time to complete program: 2 yrs Internships: Elective Description: The Paralegal Studies Program is designed to train students to assist lawyers in private firms, legal departments of companies, or governmental agencies. Graduates will have the ability to apply theories and principles of law, prepare or interpret legal documents, draft pleadings including court forms, prepare for litigation, apply legal ethics, case management techniques, and skills for client interaction, and research the law. Fremont College Paralegal Studies Program 10900 East 183rd Street, Suite 290 Cerritos, CA 90703-5342 Program Director: Gary Lopez Telephone: 562.809.5100 Fax: 562.809.7100 Email Us Degrees Offered: Associate Degree For more information: www.fremont.edu Description: Paralegal Studies encompasses many facets of law and includes, but is not limited to, property, probate, family law, torts, civil procedures, contracts and legal research and writing. The field is very broad and far-reaching and has applications in everyday life. The program was designed for the beginning student with a passion to be the best. Fremont's Paralegal Studies Program will give you the start you need as a paralegal working under the supervision of an attorney. Fullerton College Paralegal Studies Program 321 East Chapman Avenue Fullerton, CA 92632-2095 Director: Steven Dayton Telephone: 714.992.7000 Email Us Type of Institution: Public, 2 yr Degrees Offered: Associate in Science, Certificate Minimum length of time to complete program: 2 yrs for AS degree Internships: Elective For more information: www.fullcoll.edu Description: The Fullerton College Paralegal Studies Program is designed to prepare students for employment in a paraprofessional capacity working under the supervision of an attorney. It is not intended to prepare students for the practice of law. In addition to offering an Associate of Science degree, the progam also offers certificates to students who possess an Associate Degree or higher. Mount San Antonio College Paralegal Studies Program Business Administration Department 1100 North Grand Avenue Walnut, CA 91789 Director: Rebecca Olavarria Telephone: (909) 594-5611, ext. 3015 Fax: 909.468.3936 Email Us Type of Institution: Public, 2 yr Degrees Offered: Associate in Science Minimum length of time to complete program: 2 yrs Internships: Elective For more information: http://paralegal.mtsac.edu Description: The paralegal program at Mt. San Antonio College is intended to prepare students for employment as paralegals in both private and public sectors following graduation. The program stresses practical application and the development of job skills as well as legal theory. The program is designed to enhance the ability of students to reason, understand, and apply correct principles of law by teaching analytical and critical thinking skills as opposed to rote learning. Graduates of the program will qualify for entry-level employment and will possess skills for advancement and specialization in the paralegal profession. Pasadena City College Paralegal Program Business Education Division 1570 East Colorado Boulevard Pasadena, CA 91106-2003 Director: Dr. Carol D. Kellogg Telephone: 626.585.7817 Fax: 626.585.7947 Email Us Type of Institution: Public, 2 yr Degrees Offered: Associate in Science, Certificate Internships: Mandatory For more information: www.pasadena.edu Description: Pasadena City College's Paralegal Program prepares students to assist attorneys as paralegals in administrative agencies, corporations, insurance companies, private law firms, government and other legal environments. Emphasis is on training students in both civil and criminal matters. Some of the services that the paralegal provides under the supervision of an attorney are legal research, development of law office systems, client interviews, drafts, pleadings, briefing cases, legal calendaring, preparing discovery for litigated cases, preparing drafts of wills and trusts, maintaining corporate records and minutes. Instructors in this ABA approved program, are attorneys or paralegals with practical knowledge in the field of law. Santa Ana College Paralegal Program 1530 W 17th Street Santa Ana, CA 92706 Director: F. Richard Manzano Telephone: 714.564.6000 Fax: 714.564.6755 Email Us Degrees Offered: Associate Degree Back to Top University of California, Irvine Extension Business, Management and Legal Programs Post Office Box 6050 Irvine, CA 92716-6050 Director: Nancy Salzman, Esq. Telephone: 949.824.5524 Fax: 949.824.1547 Email Us Type of Institution: Public Degrees Offered: Certificate Program Internships: Elective For more information: http://unex.uci.edu/certificates/business_mgmt/paralegal/ Back to Top University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA Extension) Paralegal Training Program UCLA Extension 10995 LeConte Avenue, Suite 517 Los Angeles, CA 90095-1333 Director: Katherine H. Chew Telephone: 310.825.0299 Fax: 310.825.9242 Email Us Degrees Offered: Certificate Program Type of Institution: Public Degrees Offered: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Internships: Elective For more information: www.uclaextension.edu/aatp Description: Established in 1972, the Attorney Assistant Training Program provides students with first-rate instruction from practicing judges, attorneys and paralegals in substantive and procedural law, legal analysis and practical legal skills. The AATP offers two program alternatives. The Litigation Program option is designed to train persons interested in working as paralegals in law firms specializing in litigation or in corporate litigation departments. The Litigation/Corporations Program option is for students interested in working as paralegals in corporate legal departments or in law firms specializing in corporate law and business litigation. AATP students are awarded a certificate by successfully completing 32.4 quarter units of post-graduate professional coursework, which is graded on a passed/not passed basis. West Los Angeles College Paralegal Studies Program 9000 Overland Avenue Culver City, CA 90230-3500 Director: Nikki Jacobson, Attorney at Law Telephone: 310.287.4438 Fax: 310.287.4392 Email Us Type of Institution: Public, 2 yr. Degrees Offered: Associate in Arts; Certificate For more information: www.wlac.edu **I would go with the community college that offers the 2 year (Associates Degree) rather than the university which only offers the certificate. Community colleges are cheaper - price per unit - and it still is ABA approved** Also, while you are in paralegal school (either day or night program; you can check with the school you ultimately attend), you

Q: Questions about paralegal training and work opportunities.?
My college is offering a paralegal training course in 6 weeks. I am thinking of taking it, but unsure of what it is that a paralegal does, earns, and work hours. I am a single parent who has work as a CNA in hospitals (currently the ER) and a senior sociology major. I am mainly concerned with the earnings, is this a good investment? Whaat can anyone tell about being a paralegal?

A: Its very interesting, keeps you on your toes. You learn alot about the law. You are the backbone for an attorney, you do their research. They pay differs from state to state, but it pays good!!! Match up the salary with that of what you currently make. It's always good to have something to fall back on.

Q: where can I take a course on legal or paralegal secretary in Dublin?
I am looking for a course, certificate or diploma in legal or paralegal secretarial studies in Dublin. So far I have checked Trinity and DCU but they don't do that. I have also checked the Irish Law Society and to my great disappointment they don't have it either! Does anyone have any information?

A: It was quite a relief to find out which "Dublin" you wanted. One of the smallest is Dublin, Texas, USA, pop. 3672! I have many distant relatives in the Dublin area. One branch had to flee because of Robert Emmett's Rebellion. There a many excellent universities in Eire, but I do not really know that much about them. In the US, paralegal programs are offered at community colleges and such. They offer the first two years of university work and you are able to transfer to a four-year university and complete your degree. I am not sure what the proper British or Irish term is. I know the vocabulary is different from ours.

Q: Which of these courses would be helpful for a Lawyer and or a Paralegal ?
* American Studies * Communications * Architecture * Critical Languages * Art * Economics * Asian Studies * Political Science * Business * Psychology Keep in mind it is for a study abroad program for a International University in Japan, and these are the only courses they offer. Arigatou! ^-^

A: Konnichiwa: (Thought I'd whip out the Romanji. I noticed you were off to Japan soon) Any undergraduate major will put you in good stead. The law requires good listening, writing, and oral skills. Some helpful courses would be Comp. & Lit., Latin (yeah, that's right, Latin), psychology, sociology, anthropology, Philosophy (logic, ethics), history, and speech. Don't anticipate the courses you will take in law school...they will teach you the law there. You might also want to take a library research course, because you will do a lot of research during clerkship. Get involved with campus life and maybe try to do some overseas travel during summers. Above all, work hard. Peace. Gambatte. Sayonara.

Q: Where is the best place to study to become a Paralegal ?
I am interested in becoming a paralegal. I see online courses, classes at "colleges" that offer career studies( everything from massage to personal trainers) and some community college options. For those in the legal profession, where would you suggest?

A: I would suggest a community college of some repute, therefore your diploma will be recognized in a larger area than a local business college. Ask the college of thier placement statisics and the availability of employment in the field you are choosing. Remember the scope of where you can work extends far beyond just "paralegal" you can work in any area from the charitable sector where clients may well need some legal information a paralegal can legally provide to some government jobs and other related fields such as title searching and real estate, dont limit yourself here to just working on your own or in a law firm... Now different areas have different rules governing paralegals and you may want to contact the appropriate body to see what services you can provide. Here in Ontario Canada the profession is now regulated by the Upper Canada Law Society and others may have similiar requirements. Some colleges offer a co operative component to studies this is often a good idea, as you get some real work experience in the field, contacts and something to put on your resume. If you dont plan on opening your own business, this is a great help. Also you may want to contact some paralegal firms, many can be found in your local yellow pages and ask for an information inteview of what they do, the prospects of employment and career potential. As I had taken a two year law course in this very field and a co operative placement it proved very beneficial in my first attemtps to secure work. This has lead me to a challenging career in the not for profit field helping clients in areas such as workers compensation and social assistance amongst others. Think on what you want to do and where it will take you. By the way, dont look for the fastest shortest route to your career, study learn, and get a diploma that will be recognized, you will value this your whole life. Hope this helps :-)