Becoming a Paralegal With a Bachelor’s Degree: An Overview

For those considering the legal field and looking for a way to make an impact, a career as a paralegal may be the path for you. Paralegals play a crucial role in the legal system and the requirements to become one can vary depending on the type of job you are looking for.

Here, we will provide an overview of how to become a paralegal with a bachelor’s degree and discuss how the paralegal field is changing due to advances in technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI).

What Is a Paralegal?

A paralegal is an individual with specialized legal knowledge who assists attorneys in their work. Depending on the law firm, a paralegal might take on varying levels of responsibility, including conducting legal research, helping to prepare documents and pleadings for court, or working on cases under the guidance and supervision of attorneys. The legal field is an immensely challenging and specialized field, and it can take quite a lot of time and study to understand the laws and legal concepts. Paralegals are essential to the legal system by taking on certain tasks normally reserved for attorneys and helping to make them more efficient.

Requirements to Become a Paralegal

To become a paralegal, there are a few requirements that must be met. Typically, you will need to have a four-year college degree, although some employers may choose to hire potential paralegals based solely on experience. It is important to note that an undergraduate degree does not automatically grant you the required knowledge and skills to be a paralegal. Completion of an ABA-approved paralegal education program, such as an associate or a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, is the best way to gain the requisite knowledge and skills.

Getting Licensed as a Paralegal

While licensing is not required to become a paralegal, some states have begun to require licensing as part of their paralegal requirements. For example, California requires those who wish to become paralegals to obtain certification from the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Other states may require paralegals to take an exam such as the National Federation of Paralegal Associations’ Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE). Licensing may be beneficial in terms of career advancement and mobility.

How AI Is Changing the Paralegal Field

The legal landscape is rapidly changing due to advances in technology and AI tools are starting to be used more frequently in the paralegal field. AI tools have been developed to help perform menial tasks such as researching cases and finding similar cases that have been decided in the past. This type of technology can greatly reduce the amount of time and effort a paralegal needs to expend on conducting legal research. Additionally, AI tools have also been developed to help diagnose legal problems and suggest solutions, allowing paralegals to spend more time on the creative side of their profession.

Final Thoughts

There are many paths to becoming a paralegal, and it is important to do your research on the various requirements and career options available to you. Becoming a paralegal with a bachelor’s degree is possible and can provide you with a unique and rewarding career. Additionally, the development of AI tools has the potential to drastically alter the legal industry and being aware of these changes can help you stay ahead of the curve. If you are considering a career as a paralegal, make sure to do your research and understand the requirements and what the job entails. Good luck!