Stephanie Brodin

Paralegal: Powerful Possibilities

Dec 072012
 

Powerful Possibilities

The Value of a Paralegal Certificate

  

What’s the value of a title?   You may be a legal secretary in a law firm or law-related office and just don’t see the need to be called a paralegal.  You know what you do.  We applaud you!  We just want you to know how you can benefit from a Paralegal Certificate and additional credentials.  Information is empowering! 

 

Legal Secretary and Paralegal Employment and Compensation Comparison

Check out the employment and compensation stats, below, for these two law-related career areas.  Learn as much as you can about your profession…particularly, how you can better yourself for a promotion or a raise.  The Bureau of Labor Statics (www.bls.gov), as we often mention, is a tremendous resource. 

 

Legal Secretary

Mean Hourly Wage:  $21.30

Mean Annual Wage:  $44.310

Paralegal

Mean Hourly Wage:  $24.02

Mean Annual Wage:  $49,960

All paralegals aren’t necessarily more experienced than all legal secretaries.  There are many highly qualified and experienced legal secretaries who perform paralegal tasks.  The legal secretary’s wage doesn’t always reflect experience as it should.  TheThe  Note:  The reason a paralegal receives higher compensation is mainly because of formal training and associated credentials. 

 

The Benefit of a Paralegal Certificate

  • Your certificate confirms mastery of substantive subjects and completion of training
  • Your certificate allows you to work under the supervision of an attorney
  • Your certificate will add law-related credibility to your work experience
  • Your certificate may increase your value to your employer
  • Your certificate increases the possibility of qualifying for more jobs
  • Your certificate increases the possibility of higher pay

 

The Benefit of National Certification

There are national associations, such as NALA (http://www.nala.org/survey.aspx), that offer exams for those who desire the national certification designation of Certified Paralegal. 

National certification…

  • Positively affects your marketability
  • Shows employers your desire to be the best in your profession
  • Sets you up for higher compensation than non-CP credentialed paralegals

 

The Importance of Formal Training

The paralegal career area is in high demand, which makes the job market highly competitive.  Those with formal training should have the best job prospects. 

 

AIPS Substantive Legal Training

Substantive legal training provides the foundation for a law-related job. The following classes and workshops are a part of our AIPS curriculum.

  • American Jurisprudence
  • Business Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Estates and Trusts
  • Family Law
  • Legal Research
  • Litigation
  • Tort Law
  • Workshops: Lexis, Ethics, Law Office Skills, Administrative Law, Writing, Citation, Judgment & Analysis
  • CP (Certified Paralegal) Test Prep Course for NALA CP Exam

 Apply, today!!

 

Unconventional Paralegal Career Areas

Nov 102012
 

Custom Paralegal Fit

Unconventional Paralegal Career Areas

 

Have a passion?  Connect it to a paralegal career!  Truly, there are multitudes of ways to utilize a paralegal education.  If you have the desire to receive your paralegal certificate, but think a traditional job doesn’t work for you, you need to know there are alternative options available to you.  If you enjoy your career area but would love to get into the legal side, do it!  Check out the following information, which was found at Global Legal Resources, HG.org. 

 

Passion for Space

Aerospace or Space Law is a highly specialized area of law and deals with international agreements as well as national policies regarding the use of outer space by all nations including treaties regarding the International Space Station and Liability in Outer Space.

 

Passion for Computers

Computer Crime Law – Computer Crime (cybercrime, e-crime) refers to criminal activity that involves the use of a computer and the internet. These can be traditional criminal offenses committed with the use of a computer and newer crimes that originated with the advent of computers and networks. These crimes cover a very large and diverse range of offenses.

There are more than 40 federal statutes that govern the prosecution of computer-related crimes, as well as various state statutes.

 

Passion for Natural Resources

Natural Resources Law is regulated by statutes, common law, treaties, conventions, regulations and policies. The purpose is reducing or minimizing the impacts of human activity, both on the natural environment for its own sake and on humanity itself. Natural Resources Law includes land, wildlife, air, water and other resources.

 

Passion for Leisure

Leisure Law covers not only the industry of sports, recreation and entertainment but also includes employee rights to leisure time. 

 

What you need!

A law-related knowledge base and paralegal skill set is imperative in any area of law.  A Paralegal Certificate, which every AIPS grad receives, and national certification (http://www.nala.org/) will be highly beneficial to you! 

 

AIPS 100% Online Paralegal Certificate Program

AIPS is an experienced educator of paralegals.  Learn from the best.  Our applicable and relevant curriculum is designed for you!  Following is an idea of the classes you will take at AIPS.  The sky is the limit! 

Business Law

Legal Research

Litigation

Criminal Law

Workshops:  Lexis, Ethics, Law Office Skills, Administrative Law, Writing, Citation, Judgment & Analysis

CP (Certified Paralegal) Test Prep Course for NALA CP Exam 

Apply, today!

Alternate Paralegal Career

http://www.hg.org/ 

Online Paralegal Education

Oct 272012
 

Online Paralegal Education

What’s in it for you?

The paralegal career area is intriguing; but, do you really need a paralegal education to do the work?  The better question may be, “How will I benefit from a paralegal education?”  Let’s face it!  The economy is dictating what we choose or choose not to do.  Education, at times, seems a frivolous choice; but, is it?  Let’s take a few minutes to address that question, and to highlight the benefits of the AIPS online school.

 

Benefit #1

Affordability!   You are paying for a specific skill set…one that will prepare you for a specific job.  A liberal arts education at any number of colleges and universities is a good thing; however, do you really need that broad of a perspective to work as a paralegal?  We think not.  So, spend your time and money learning the skills you need without student loans and long-term debt.

 

Benefit #2

Convenience!  For most working adults, it is just not feasible to attend class at a traditional college or university.  You just don’t have the time.  The beauty of an online paralegal school is you do not have to leave home to earn your Certificate at the AIPS online school.  Go ahead and take that sigh of relief!   No need to leave home, after a busy day at work.  In fact, you can take school with you on weekend trips or on vacations.  Can’t get any better than that!

 

Benefit #3

 Applicable, real life curriculum! The specific focus of our school is the skill set you need to work in a law-related career.  In addition, our curriculum allows you to apply what you are learning.  You will be asked to research case law in your own state.  The tools you learn are the tools you can use.

 

Benefit #4

Interactive online format!  Blend the convenience of our online program with the AIPS interactive online format, and you have the perfect educational scenario.  Students, classmates and instructors connect daily!! 

  • The AIPS programs are designed for interaction

 

So, what’s in it for you?  The opportunity to learn a specific skill and increase your career marketability.  Take charge of your career!   Check us out!!!

 

Fall into your Paralegal Future

Oct 162012
 

Fall into your Future with a Paralegal Career

Earn Paralegal Certificate from Home

 

Fall is the perfect time to attend a paralegal program, such as the AIPS 100% Online Paralegal Certificate Program.  The days are shorter, so studying in the evening is a great option.  Or, if you’re an early riser, you can attend class before the sun makes its appearance.  The beautiful thing about our online program is that you can study at the time that works the best for you, your family and your busy schedule.  An additional perk…and possibly the most important…is you will be moving toward your future as a paralegal. 

 

What is the next step?

The next step is a choice, your choice.  You have been researching online classes and have tossed the pros and cons around so much your head is spinning.  You are reading this, right now, because something caught your eye.  AIPS doesn’t want you to react to clever words; however, we do want you to respond.  Possibly, the words in this article confirm what you are feeling.  That’s a good thing.  Now, make the choice that will help you and your career. 

 

What is the choice?

Apply!  AIPS gives you the opportunity to get acquainted with our program.  If you want to dip your toe into the program before you jump in, try our FREE Introductory Mini-Course.  Once you check out the program, then apply and get settled into your class routine.

 

Why choose AIPS Online School?

  • You will learn from a proven and experienced leader
  • You will choose the month to begin class
  • You will choose the program that works the best for you
  • You will have the flexibility to attend class at the time of day that fits your schedule
  • You will interact with classmates and instructors on a daily basis
  • You will save money and time by choosing a paralegal program
  • You will receive technical and academic support each step of the way
  • You will receive your Paralegal Certificate, free membership to an Alumni Association, Certified Paralegal Test Prep Course  and CLE opportunities upon graduation

 

It’s your choice!  Invest in yourself!

Ultimately, it’s your choice!  However, we understand you may need more information.  We welcome you to call us at 800-553-2420. Or, check out our website at www.aips.com!

 

You are worth the investment!!!

paralegal school

http://www.aips.com/paralegal-schools/

Paralegal: What it Takes

Oct 022012
 

What does it take to be a paralegal?

Do you have what you need? 

“All rise.  The Honorable Wright presiding,” calls out the bailiff.  The judge makes his entrance and motions for all to take a seat.  A paralegal sits to the left of the lead attorney for the defense.  The members of the jury file into the courtroom and take their seats.  The judge turns to the jury foreman and asks, “Have you reached a verdict?”   The foreman states they have.  The judge asks the defendant to stand, then looks to the jury foreman and asks, “What is your verdict?”  The culmination of months of work is wrapped up in the imminent announcement of “guilty” or “innocent”.   

What you just read may sound like a paragraph in a novel; however, to a litigation team, this jury verdict is anything but fiction.  A paralegal is a vital part of this team.   Just what type of individual chooses to do this stressful and invigorating work?  

Essential Skills

O’NET (http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/23-2011.00) is a wonderful career resource and lists the following paralegal skills.  Check out the website for a definition of each skill.  

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking and Writing
  • Critical Thinking
  • Time Management
  • Active Learning
  • Coordination
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Monitoring

 Essential Abilities

In addition to the skills listed, above, the paralegal should possess the following abilities:

  • Oral Comprehension
  • Oral Expression
  • Written Comprehension
  • Written Expression
  • Speech Clarity
  • Information Management
  • Deductive Reasoning
  • Attention to Detail 

Essential Law-Related Knowledge

Some traits and abilities you possess, naturally.  However, in order for you to be prepared for the duties of the job, formal training is a necessity.  Should you choose to apply for a promotion, you will find that a paralegal education will be a desired qualification listed on the job application.  There will always be on-the job-training; however, don’t view it as a substitute for formal training.  Formal training will add credibility to law-related experience…particularly on your resume. 

 

The AIPS 100% Online Paralegal School

American Institute for Paralegal Studies (AIPS) is a proven leader in paralegal studies.  We have been doing it for a long time.  We know what we’re doing.  Following are the classes you will take at AIPS:

  • American Jurisprudence
  • Torts and Personal Injury
  • Civil Litigation
  • Family Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Trial Practice & Evidence
  • Business Law
  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Ethics and Personal Responsibility
  • Estates and Trusts
  • Workshops:  Lexis; Law Office Skills; Citation 

Apply, today!!   

  paralegal skills

http://www.onetonline.org/

Fear, Unemployment Stats & the Paralegal Job Market

Sep 072012
 

Unemployment Stats & the Paralegal Job Market

The paralegal job outlook…and more… 

Let’s face it; the news about the current unemployment rate can be daunting, particularly if you are the one who is searching for a job.  What does that mean for those of you considering a career as a paralegal?  Should you throw your hands up in despair and quit?  We think not!  Use the unemployment stats as a catalyst to set yourself up as the best paralegal applicant!  Ask yourself this question:  Is there anything else I can do to make myself more competitive in the paralegal job market? 

We shouldn’t be answering a question with a question, but we are.  Ask yourself… 

  1. Who am I competing against for paralegal jobs? 
  2. How can I stand out among paralegal job applicants?
  3. Am I willing to receive formal paralegal training? 

Paralegal Job Outlook

Before you begin your paralegal job search, be aware that employment of paralegals is expected to grow by 18%, between now and 2020.  The fact that there is growth in the paralegal career is a good thing.  There will be law-related jobs available.  

Who are you competing against for paralegal jobs?

Know your enemy…not that another applicant is an enemy in the true sense; however, it is important for you to compare your employment history and your job skills with other potential applicants.  Some applicants may have degrees but no experience.  Others may have experience but no formal education. So, don’t shy away from evaluating your career stats, and do what you need to do to shorten the gap between you and your competition. 

How can you stand out among paralegal job applicants?

There are things you can do to be competitive in the paralegal job market. 

Craft a strong resume – highlight law-related skills

Research the employer – be ready to articulate how you can benefit the employer

Obtain the training and credentials – take the extra effort to set yourself up 

Are you willing to continue your education to gain a competitive edge?

Paralegal training is high on the list of desired qualifications!!

  • A Paralegal Certificate confirms mastery of paralegal courses
  • National certification shows you are willing to go above and beyond what is expected 

AIPS Can Help!!

Interactive online format

Experienced Paralegal Certificate program

Prep for NALA CP Exam 

Search for a  job with confidence!  Receive the necessary training and credentials you need!  Apply, today!

 paralegal career

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm#tab-6

The Perfect Marriage: IT and Paralegal Career

Aug 312012
 

Tech Paralegal Career

Consider a paralegal career with a technical focus!

Does the thought of a paralegal career excite you? Do you love all things technical and law-related? Are you wondering if you can combine your technical expertise and a paralegal career? Are we asking amazing questions? Absolutely!! You may have attended a technical institution, and you know computers inside and out. What an incredible skillset to have! Anyone who works in an office setting knows that IT support and innovation is incredibly important to that office or organization. Perhaps, you would like to learn more about how to get the best of both of worlds…technical and paralegal. Let’s highlight some jobs that might pique your interest.

Computer Forensics Firm Employee – These firms house computer sleuths…IT PI’s. These professionals know where to find information that most of us would never know to look. They are computer sleuths…IT PI’s. What a great marriage of technical and legal knowledge. Check out Global CompuSearch to get an idea of the services a premiere computer forensics firm provides: http://globalcompusearch.com/

Technology/Litigation Paralegal – How would you like a paralegal career where your time is divided into two functions? Peruse this job description:

“Chicago-based law firm is looking for top technology/litigation paralegal position. This is a hybrid position where the paralegal will spend part of the time supporting the firm’s information technology (IT) systems and part of the time supporting the firm’s litigation teams. A minimum of two years’ experience working in litigation and technology is required. As IT support, the paralegal will be expected to troubleshoot routine computer issues for the office and serve as a liaison with outside IT consultants to solve more complex issues and aid in regular IT maintenance. As litigation support, the paralegal will be expected to focus on electronic database management, as well as other litigation functions.”

Sound interesting? Have the technical knowhow but need the paralegal education? AIPS will help with that.

Legal Software Sales – Maybe, you are a natural salesman. You know the legal system and process. You know legal software. You could be a legal software rep who showcases products that benefit law-related offices and organizations. Your paralegal career makes you a trustworthy representative.

These are just a few of the many tech-type possibilities that might fit your paralegal career to a T! Get the technical credentials you need and your Paralegal Certificate from AIPS! Call 800-553-2420!

 technical and paralegal career

http://www.lbbslaw.com/Careers/jobposting.aspx?id=6400

Politics, Policy and a Federal Paralegal Job

Aug 262012
 

Policy, Politics and Your Paralegal Job

How to apply for a paralegal job with the federal government!

In an election year, many contemplate a paralegal job within the federal government.  Does that sound interesting to you?  Do you find yourself dreaming about working in The White House or in Congress, or in an agency of the federal government?  If you are, you need to know that it’s possible.  The key is to get your foot in the door.  You need to know where to look for a paralegal job, and you need to know how to apply.  The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a wealth of information and provides a document that outlines everything you need to know about applying for a federal job. 

“How to get a job in the Federal Government” by Olivia Crosby is the BLS document that defines the federal government application process.  Ms. Crosby talks about our nation’s largest employer…the federal government.  She discusses topics such as which agencies hire the most employees and where most of the federal government employees reside within our nation, plus much more.  Most relevant to today’s discussion is the portion that instructs you on how to apply for a paralegal job…or any job…within the federal government.  As we have mentioned, there is a specific process that you need to be aware of it before you begin the application process.  Pay close attention to what this document says to do.  Consider it your federal government application manual.  Once you have gathered your necessary personal information, you are ready to find a job.

Federal Government Paralegal Job Search Engine

There is an official federal government job search engine: USAJOBS.  This is the first place you should go to look for a job with the federal government.  It is located at usajobs.gov. Click on the Resource Center in the toolbar for help in searching for your paralegal job.  You will be able to look for a job, on the home page, by using “paralegal” as the keyword in the “what” field.  You can keep the “where” field open for access to national paralegal job postings, or you can enter a specific state. 

Do you need a Paralegal Certificate?

It is important to set yourself up as the best applicant.  If you want to compete, nationally, you need a formal paralegal education.  AIPS will provide you with that education and a Paralegal Certificate!  Call 800-553-2420 to chat with us!

http://www.usajobs.gov/

Contin-YOU-ed Paralegal Education

Aug 192012
 

Contin-YOU-ed Education

Investing in Your Paralegal Future 

There are many reasons why you are considering continuing your education….and why you are considering a paralegal career. Maybe, you lost a job and need to brush up on your skills, or you need an additional skill for a promotion. Possibly, you want to add a specialized or national certification to an already glowing career. All are valid reasons; and, the common denominator is you. Yes, YOU are right smack in the middle of continued education.

 

It is wise to research and consider all of the pros and cons, the upsides and downsides. The great thing about continued education is there really isn’t a downside. Sometimes, it’s just easier to justify and rationalize not continuing your education, when you are the one those sacrifices are for. Right? 

Well, here’s the thing: 

  • YOU are enough of a reason to continue your education
  • YOU are worth the investment of money and time 

AIPS Grad Quote: “My classes at AIPS have been thorough, informative, and extremely interesting. I have AIPS to thank for instilling the confidence in me that I need to change careers in midlife.” Charlotte Jaeger, Independent Consultant, 2011 AIPS Graduate 

Do you need to reinvent your career wheel to begin a paralegal career?

No!  If you like your current career area but are feeling stagnant or unchallenged, you may be able to find a law-related job within your current profession.  Use your innate skills and use the skills you have learned in your current position.   Add paralegal skills to the mix and you have a recipe for greater marketability and career success. 

 

Take charge of your own career and earn your Paralegal Certificate!

A Paralegal Certificate…

  • Confirms competency and completion of paralegal training
  • Allows you to work as a paralegal
  • Adds law-related credibility to your work experience
  • Increases the possibility of qualifying for more jobs and earning higher salary

 

American Institute for Paralegal Studies (AIPS) understands that you need a Paralegal Studies program that is affordable and accessible at any time of the day. We get it.
AIPS will provide…

  • A proven Paralegal Certificate program you can complete in 4 – 12 months.
  • Affordable payment options
  • A distance learning format that is 100% online

There is more wonderful information on the AIPS website, at www.aips.com!!

Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-553-2420.

E-mail us: info@aips.com

Continuing Education! The most important part is YOU!!!

 paralegal career

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm#tab-5

A Day in the Life of a Paralegal

Aug 052012
 

A Practicing Paralegal

What you need to perform paralegal tasks! 

What does a typical day look like to a practicing paralegal?  Each area of law dictates the particulars of a paralegal’s day; however, there are some daily tasks that carry over from office to office.  Let’s begin by defining a paralegal, for those of you who are researching the profession.  

The Definition of a Paralegal

The following definition is provided by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) www.nala.org: 

Legal assistants (also known as paralegals) are a distinguishable group of persons who assist attorneys in the delivery of legal services. Through formal education, training, and experience, legal assistants have knowledge and expertise regarding the legal system and substantive and procedural law which qualify them to do work of a legal nature under the supervision of an attorney.

A paralegal assists attorneys and cannot practice law.  However, there are many things a paralegal can do under attorney supervision. 

Attorney Support

Scheduling:

  • Call clients, opposing counsel, court personnel, mediator, witnesses, etc., to arrange meetings, interviews, depositions and hearings

Research and Investigation:

  • Investigate case facts
  • Gather supportive evidence  
  • Interview witnesses
  • Conduct legal research on laws, regulations and legal articles  

Document Preparation and Case Management:

  • Draft correspondence and pleadings
  • Organize and maintain case files 

For more information about this profession, in general, go to the Bureau of Labor Stat

How Paralegal Training Benefits Your Marketability

NALA’s definition states a paralegal is qualified through formal education, training and experience to perform law-related work under an attorney’s supervision.   Consider asking yourself the following questions: 

What training is necessary?

  • Relevant law-related training applicable to the paralegal profession

What do you need to be highly competitive in the job market?

  • You need a Paralegal Certificate
  • You need national certification, such as NALA’s Certified Paralegal credential 

               “This program will allow me to take my certification exam through NALA. That is what will make the biggest impact on my career. Since I have focused my career on working in a large law firm, credentials are important...”  B. Curran June 2012 grad 

What should you look for in a paralegal school?

  • Experience
  • An engaging, challenging and applicable curriculum
  • Support for graduates pursuing national certification and specialization 

The AIPS Approach

  • Paralegal Certificate upon graduation
  • 100% online interactive format
  • Challenging and relevant curriculum
  • Prep course for NALA CP Exam 

 Next class begins August 20!

paralegal skills

http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/23-2011.00

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