Paralegal Certificate:  How Will You Use It?

Pursue Your Passions with Your Paralegal Certificate 

 

The Paralegal Certificate is the credential received after completion of a paralegal education course.  The recipient confirms competency in paralegal and law-related subject area, which is important when applying for law-related jobs.  We say, law-related, because there are many ways that paralegal skills may be used. Let’s take a look at how several American Institute for Paralegal Studies (AIPS) grads used their paralegal certificate.  

University EO/AA Investigator  

Job description:  Investigate complaints of and prepare recommendations for action regarding alleged EEOC violations at the university, university hospital and university athletic events.  Develop and conduct training of faculty, staff and student population. 

Arbitration Case Manager

Job description:  Receive the demand for arbitration, examine the contract to make sure arbitration is listed in the event of a dispute, and contact all parties and determine if there is a possible counter claim that needs to be addressed.  Locate an arbitrator, according to the internal pool of candidates and the locale listed on the demand letter by the claimant.  Explain the rules of arbitration, bill the claimant, set up a conference with all parties to discuss ADR; schedule a hearing(s); and monitor the case until settlement.  All correspondences are conducted via letter, email and fax. 

Judicial Services Specialist for the Oregon State Courts

Job description:  Accept, track and file all documents filed in domestic relations, dissolution and custody cases.  This includes monitoring case timelines and advising judges / staff as case milestones approach.  Assist the public in understanding court processes/procedures regarding domestic relations cases. 

Real Estate Deal Manager

Job Description:  These duties blend those of a real estate project manager and a paralegal. Monitor all the commercial real estate development projects that the company is involved in. Work closely with both developers and attorneys to expedite any documents required for these deals. Track contract requirements and critical dates. Prepare various legal documents at the direction of the attorneys. Coordinate and review all closing documents relating to each real estate transaction. 

As you can see, each graduate used newly acquired paralegal skills in a different manner.  Choices were made based on personal interests and passions. The Paralegal Certificate added credibility to existing law-related experience plus the possibility of qualifying for more law-related positions.    

Pursue your passions with your Paralegal Certificate!   Click here to learn more about the AIPS 100% Online Paralegal Certificate Program.  The sky’s the limit! 

http://legalcareers.about.com/od/careerprofiles/tp/8-Legal-Careers-.htm