Aspiring
to become a paralegal requires strategic planning and informed choices. Our
investigative feature outlines the essential steps: selecting an ABA-approved
educational program, completing substantive coursework in areas like
litigation, ethics, and legal research, and obtaining professional
certification through bodies such as NALA or NALS. We interview program
directors and certification holders to shed light on timeline
expectations—typically six months to two years—and highlight scholarship resources
that can offset tuition costs. Practical experience via internships or
externships is emphasized as a differentiator in competitive job markets.
Finally, we explore career pathways that extend beyond traditional law firms
into corporate legal departments, government agencies, and nonprofit
organizations. Equip yourself with this roadmap to launch a successful
paralegal career grounded in rigorous training and industry accreditation.
