If you have been (or are) a paralegal please take a moment to answer this simple question...

Moderated by: Displaced Legal Professional
Get new comments by email
You can cancel email alerts at anytime.
Comments (1 to 50 of 410)
Page:   1  2  3  4  Next »   Last »

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts

15 months ago

Do you like being a paralegal? Why or why not?

Please mention the "style" of paralegal that you are/were (corporate, government, etc.). And if you could mention how easy or difficult it is to get into that kind of position, availability

I'm trying to decide if going to school to be a paralegal is the right career move (as opposed to going to school for something else) and I've heard some differing views on this forum.

Maybe if I tell you what I want in career you might be able to tell me if being paralegal is a good job or may be able to suggest something better. I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires only an associates degree or no degree; that isn't super stressful; but that also is challenging and rewarding (meaning that my work makes a difference to my clients and they appreciate my effort). I don't know how well a paralegal job holds up to these standards but I'm interested to see what you think.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No (2) Reply - Report abuse

kmm in Wilmington, Delaware

15 months ago

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: Do you like being a paralegal? Why or why not?

I'm trying to decide if going to school to be a paralegal is the right career move (as opposed to going to school for something else) and I've heard some differing views on this forum....... I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires only an associates degree or no degree; that isn't super stressful;

Being a Paralegal is a very stressful job- I would suggest getting a degree in Business.

I am a retired Paralegal of 10 years.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (2) / No Reply - Report abuse

Boston

15 months ago

Look at the paralegal job openings. All crap--recruiters and revolving door firms. Loyalty, go-getter attitude means nothing. As for pay, they may advertise $60,000 but you'll be lucky to make $45,000 especially in this economy and lawyers have been hard hit for a few years now. You pay for your own benefits package. I was laid off from 2 firms-work was slow. I took my degree, loyalty, and go-getter attitude and put it to good use in another industry. I wouldn't recommend paralegal or law school at this time.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (6) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

I don't think paralegal will measure up to your demanding standards, Jim. For one thing, you really need a four-year degree and paralegal certificate to be competitive in a tight market. No one in any industry pays $50K to someone with a two-year degree or less. I have a four-year degree and a paralegal certificate and never made more than $40K+bonus with more than eleven years in the industry.

Further, paralegal is not the career of choice if you do not want or cannot handle stress. Lawyers are among the most difficult employers around. They have some of the most toxic personalities around. In terms of employee treatment, lawyers never hesitate to gratuitously impose on your time, but they'll shut you down if you need a few moments of their time.

Litigation attorneys exist in an adversarial environment, but so many of them cannot turn it off. They let their adversarial attitude carry over to their dealings with their legal assistants - people who are on their sides and support them.

Trust me, you will be challenged daily as a paralegal. As far as client appreciation goes, expect to take a back seat to the attorneys. In terms of your work and effort being appreciated, "thank you" is not in many attorneys' lexicons.

Finally, Jim, you apparently want an easygoing job that pays well and gives you psychological rewards without requiring much education. OMO, but your expectations are unrealistic.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (7) / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

Boston said: Look at the paralegal job openings. All crap--recruiters and revolving door firms.
It's the same around here. I second wholeheartedly your comment about loyalty meaning nothing to lawyers and law firms. I second your recommedation about not choosing paralegal or law school, ever.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (3) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

Boston said: Look at the paralegal job openings. All crap--recruiters and revolving door firms.
It's the same around here. I second wholeheartedly your comment about loyalty meaning nothing to lawyers and law firms. I second your recommendation about not choosing paralegal or law school, ever.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (3) / No Reply - Report abuse

Alicia in New Rochelle, New York

15 months ago

If you are looking for a short cut, appreciation & a nice starting salary, Nursing is a great way to go. All you need is an associate's degree & the starting salary for most nurses is 50,000 & Up.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

Nurses' hours can be rugged, though, especially if you must work overnights, and the work can be stressful. Private duty may be better, if you can swing it.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Alicia in New Rochelle, New York

15 months ago

Well I don't know about Colorado, but here in New York, you are not forced to work over night. The standard hours are 7am to 7pm three days a week unless you choose to work over night.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

kmm in Wilmington, Delaware

15 months ago

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado said: It's the same around here. I second wholeheartedly your comment about loyalty meaning nothing to lawyers and law firms. I second your recommedation about not choosing paralegal or law school, ever.

Hello DLP- a/k/a "retired"

I agree with "Boston" and you. Especially now, with the economic situation - those crazy "agency" people are all over the adds. AND all they want is to add to their list of inventory people, so that "if" an assigment come in, they have a selection. I know their game . No thank you.

There are only a few good agencies - and they are usually small organizations - again, with this economy - their is zich temp work.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (2) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

Alicia in New Rochelle, New York said: Well I don't know about Colorado, but here in New York, you are not forced to work over night. The standard hours are 7am to 7pm three days a week unless you choose to work over night.
I don't buy it. Most people don't want to work overnight. So how do hospitals, nursing homes, etc. find nurses to work overnights if they aren't forced to?

Hospital nurses I've here met work three 12s a week.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

kmm in Wilmington, Delaware said: I agree with "Boston" and you. Especially now, with the economic situation - those crazy "agency" people are all over the ads. AND all they want is to add to their list of inventory people, so that "if" an assignment come in, they have a selection. I know their game. No thank you.
Around here, the agencies are advertising one or two legit jobs.

Example: a big-time downtown firm is looking for a paralegal. The firm is advertising the job on its website. However - at least two agencies are also seeking candidates for the position, but the agencies are dumb. Although agencies always say they cannot reveal their client until you see them, in their ads they parrot the firm's ad verbiage nearly word-for-word. They parrot the verbiage even in their e-mails.

Give me a break. Smart jobseekers troll firm websites regularly for new openings and will spot them during those visits, if they don't see an actual ad, as I did. And I thought agency clients are supposed to be "confidential."

On the other hand, I have to wonder if that law firm actually engaged these agencies to find candidates or, as you said, Cindy, if they saw the same ad or website posting I did and they're doing it on spec.

I agree with you, Cindy. I also know agencies' games and no thanks for me, too.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (2) / No Reply - Report abuse

kmm in Wilmington, Delaware

15 months ago

Alicia in New Rochelle, New York said: Well I don't know about Colorado, but here in New York, you are not forced to work over night. The standard hours are 7am to 7pm three days a week unless you choose to work over night.

Hi Alicia - HUM- abaout those hours. If you are a nurse working in a hospital, someone has to work the graveyard shift. And plenty of nurses have to work 1 weeend a month.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

Alicia in New Rochelle, New York said: Well I don't know about Colorado, but here in New York, you are not forced to work over night. The standard hours are 7am to 7pm three days a week unless you choose to work over night.
I don't buy it. Most people don't want to work overnight. So how do hospitals, nursing homes, etc. find nurses to work overnights if they aren't forced to?

Hospital nurses I've met here work three 12s a week.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No Reply - Report abuse

vh in Dayton, Ohio

15 months ago

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: Do you like being a paralegal? Why or why not?

Please mention the "style" of paralegal that you are/were (corporate, government, etc.). And if you could mention how easy or difficult it is to get into that kind of position, availability

I'm trying to decide if going to school to be a paralegal is the right career move (as opposed to going to school for something else) and I've heard some differing views on this forum.

Maybe if I tell you what I want in career you might be able to tell me if being paralegal is a good job or may be able to suggest something better. I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires only an associates degree or no degree; that isn't super stressful; but that also is challenging and rewarding (meaning that my work makes a difference to my clients and they appreciate my effort). I don't know how well a paralegal job holds up to these standards but I'm interested to see what you think.

Don't do it. It can be rewarding and working with clients most of the time is great, however, you will never, never get the appreciation you deserve from the majority of the lawyers you work with. They have too many problems with lack of ethics, laziness, arrogance, egotism, lack of caring for their clients, abuse problems, greed, et cetera. I spent 35 years in the legal field and am still doing some part-time work now that I'm retired, and when I look back on it I should have become a physical therapist. The pay is horrible with plaintiff attorneys. The stress is horrendous, and the office politics can be brutal. If you do everything your attorney bosses tell you to do without question, you can be in danger of losing your license but the jerk keeps on going. It will always be your fault when something goes wrong. I'm sorry I ever wasted my life trying to be David up against Goliath. I had to leave three law firms because of their lack of ethic

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (5) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

vh in Dayton, Ohio said: [Y]ou will never, never get the appreciation you deserve from the majority of the lawyers you work with....The pay is horrible with plaintiff attorneys. The stress is horrendous, and the office politics can be brutal....
All true, especially your remarks about the stress. Don't forget about recognition, or lack thereof.

Very good post. Thank you. Enjoy your retirement. It sounds like you have earned it.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Alicia in New Rochelle, New York

15 months ago

Well Like I said before, People choose to work overnight. In the hospital I work at, Most of the nurses work overnight because they want to & because of their kids. No one is forced.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No (3) Reply - Report abuse

hoosiergirl in Dallas, Texas

15 months ago

I, too, am interested in the paralegal field but my experience prior to this as a Registered Nurse. I can tell you that there are few nurses that are flat out forced to work certain shifts. There are A LOT of people who prefer night shift, it's not a big deal. Employers make night shift even more attractive by offering higher pay differentials. So, that all works out. Also, I have to disagree with the comment about people with two year degrees not being able to make 50,000 yearly. I know of PLENTY of people doing even better than that on their 2 YEAR DEGREES, such as myself and my brother who has a two year electronics degree. It's all relative to your region of the country and how much in demand your skills are.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (3) / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

Fair comment regarding pay. But the OP stated the following:

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires **only an associates degree or no degree**....(emphasis added)
I stand my comment that he is expecting quite a bit if he expects to make $50K from most industries, including law, in five years with a two-year degree or no degree. Especially no degree.

BTW many personal injury firms, Workers' Comp firms and med mal firms hire nurse-paralegals. Their medical background and ability to review and understand medical records make them obvious candidates. I cannot say every injury firm has or hires nurse-paralegals, but many do.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

15 months ago

Moderator

Fair comment regarding pay. But the OP stated the following:

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: I want a job that pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires **only an associates degree or no degree**....(emphasis added)
I stand by my comment that he is expecting quite a bit if he expects to make $50K from most industries, including law, in five years with a two-year degree or no degree. Especially no degree.

BTW many personal injury firms, Workers' Comp firms and med mal firms hire nurse-paralegals. Their medical background and ability to review and understand medical records make them obvious candidates. I cannot say every injury firm has or hires nurse-paralegals, but many do.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

kmm in Wilmington, Delaware

15 months ago

vh in Dayton, Ohio said: Don't do it. It can be rewarding and working with clients most of the time is great, however, you will never, never get the appreciation you deserve from the majority of the lawyers you work with. They have too many problems with lack of ethics, laziness, arrogance, egotism, lack of caring for their clients, abuse problems, greed, et cetera. I spent 35 years in the legal field and am still doing some part-time work now that I'm retired, and when I look back on it I should have become a physical therapist. The pay is horrible with plaintiff attorneys. The stress is horrendous, and the office politics can be brutal. If you do everything your attorney bosses tell you to do without question, you can be in danger of losing your license but the jerk keeps on going. It will always be your fault when something goes wrong. I'm sorry I ever wasted my life trying to be David up against Goliath. I had to leave three law firms because of their lack of ethic

Great post - I am a retired paralegal of 10years. The stress. And just how some of them talk to you sometimes.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (2) / No Reply - Report abuse

kmm in Wilmington, Delaware

15 months ago

Alicia in New Rochelle, New York said: Well Like I said before, People choose to work overnight. In the hospital I work at, Most of the nurses work overnight because they want to & because of their kids. No one is forced.

Whatever you say Alicia.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Overwhelmed in FL in Hudson, Florida

14 months ago

I must add my two cents. Do NOT do it!! I spent two years of my life in school and actually did get my AS in Paralegal Studies and was employed for about one year as a paralegal. I quit and am now preparing myself to invest one more year in an LPN program.

The stress of the legal field was overwhelming and unsettling. The stories of attorneys throwing chairs at their paralegals and tyrannical behavior was not a secret once I entered the field. If I had known about it prior, I may not have completed my paralegal education.

Keep in mind, many firms do not offer benefits; they are small businesses. The larger firms that do dangle benefits packages are often hiring individual paralegals with 10+ years experience or are hiring impoverished recent law school grads desparate for any work, even if it is as a paralegal, grunt-worker. I personally started in the field at just above minimum wage; pay is slow and hard earned.

Many in the legal field, myself included, are type "a" perfectionists who are working on severe deadlines and pressure from clients (Most are nasty, short-tempered, and wary of lawyers; some are nice and patient. It is often difficult to differentiate between the two). The whole scene is a volatile mix. And, you better beleive the attorneys will suck up your time! I often brought work home toward the end of my employment; that was a real wake up call. You give an inch they will demand a mile (even if it is a passive demand of leaving "post-it" notes with smiley faces, LOL).

Working as a paralegal is FULL of stress, deadlines, "post-it" notes, and serious disillusionment. I was completely disappointed with the legal field and am very excited (and nervous) to be starting on a new path in nursing in just one week!

So, if it is a non-stressfull, high-paying job you are looking for, working as a paralegal is not the path to take.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (10) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

Great post, Overwhelmed. Thank you. I couldn't have written it better.

A partner in my last firm hurled his phone at his paralegal-office manager - not quite as rich as your chair-throwing comment.

Best of luck to you with nursing - not that nursing isn't stressful.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

Overwhelmed in FL in Hudson, Florida: "I often brought work home toward the end of my employment; that was a real wake up call. You give an inch they will demand a mile (even if it is a passive demand of leaving "post-it" notes with smiley faces, LOL)."

I love your "passive demand" comment. On many days I came in at 5-5:30 a.m. - you read right; a.m. - toward the end of my tour. During that period on other days I came in between 6 and 7:15 a.m. (The normal day started at 8:30 a.m.) I'd go home at 5:00 p.m. or later; in the interim I took a twenty minute lunch at my desk.

Thanks again for your post.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Jennifer in Bellevue, Nebraska

14 months ago

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: Do you like being a paralegal? Why or why not?

Please mention the "style" of paralegal that you are/were (corporate, government, etc.). And if you could mention how easy or difficult it is to get into that kind of position, availability

I'm trying to decide if going to school to be a paralegal is the right career move (as opposed to going to school for something else) and I've heard some differing views on this forum.

Maybe if I tell you what I want in career you might be able to tell me if being paralegal is a good job or may be able to suggest something better. I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires only an associates degree or no degree; that isn't super stressful; but that also is challenging and rewarding (meaning that my work makes a difference to my clients and they appreciate my effort). I don't know how well a paralegal job holds up to these standards but I'm interested to see what you think.

If you want a job that isn't stressful, paralegal work is not for you! I am a Litigation Paralegal and it can be extremely stressful!!!

I personally enjoy my job and the only time the stress makes me a little crazy is during trial time but that is to be expected when you are working 12+ hour days!

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (4) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

Jennifer in Bellevue, Nebraska said: [T]he only time the stress makes me a little crazy is during trial time but that is to be expected when you are working 12+ hour days!
I was a litigation paralegal for nearly seven years and worked 10+ hours nearly every day. Only one case actually went to trial and something like five WC cases went to hearing, but I still had lots and lots of stress.

As far as trial prep went, the attorney handled his own, including copying and Bates-stamping pages. He never asked for my help, though, of course, I would have gladly provided it. After all, that's why I was there. He was extremely anal, but, in this instance he had a point. He felt that if he did everything himself it would be done precisely his way. Fine with me. This individual was moody and I wouldn't have liked him ripping me a new one if I were to err, even in the slightest.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (4) / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri

14 months ago

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: Do you like being a paralegal? Why or why not?

Please mention the "style" of paralegal that you are/were (corporate, government, etc.). And if you could mention how easy or difficult it is to get into that kind of position, availability

I'm trying to decide if going to school to be a paralegal is the right career move (as opposed to going to school for something else) and I've heard some differing views on this forum.

Maybe if I tell you what I want in career you might be able to tell me if being paralegal is a good job or may be able to suggest something better. I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires only an associates degree or no degree; that isn't super stressful; but that also is challenging and rewarding (meaning that my work makes a difference to my clients and they appreciate my effort). I don't know how well a paralegal job holds up to these standards but I'm interested to see what you think.

Looks like you are getting some negative feedback. I think a Paralegal career is a good one. Yes, it is stressful, however, you do need a positive attitude. One that complains all the time, won't get far. I have been working in the legal field for 25 years and I now work at a firm in St. Louis. The Paralegals here make GOOD money. One Paralegal is 28 and has an Assoc. Degree in Paralegal Studies and earns about $60,000 after 3 years experience. If you work in a large city...I believe you will always find work as a Paralegal.
Try to get an Assoc. Degree as a Paralegal, just a Certificate can be limiting. Find a reputable Recruiter, preferably one who HAS BEEN a Paralegal. I was most happy in Corp. Law (in-house) lots of interesting work. Litigation can be a drag. I also liked Estate Planning, lots of client contact. Real Estate is good if you like to read contracts. I hope this is helpful for you.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (7) / No (4) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri said: If you work in a large city...I believe you will always find work as a Paralegal.
Denver is a large city and it has very few openings. Also, with the influx of newcomers and paralegal programs disgorging scores, seemingly, of new graduates, competition is very tough. Around here there are many, many well qualified candidates seeking the few jobs available. Maybe St. Louis is different.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (4) / No (2) Reply - Report abuse

Leigh in Fredericksburg, Virginia

14 months ago

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: Do you like being a paralegal? Why or why not?

Maybe if I tell you what I want in career you might be able to tell me if being paralegal is a good job or may be able to suggest something better. I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires only an associates degree or no degree; that isn't super stressful; but that also is challenging and rewarding (meaning that my work makes a difference to my clients and they appreciate my effort). I don't know how well a paralegal job holds up to these standards but I'm interested to see what you think.

Jim, it has been my experience that in order to earn the salary you desire in the paralegal field, most of the mid- to large-size law firms will expect you to have at least a bachelor's degree, and will PREFER that you also have a paralegal certificate. As the other bloggers have stated, the job can be very stressful, but the level of stress can vary depending on what area of law you choose to work in and, of course, the personality of the attorney(s). I was in corporate and real estate, and I enjoyed it most of the time. There was some overtime, but not like the litigation paralegals. As for satisfying you need to feel appreciated, I found working in real estate (the residential side) very gratifying because the new homeowners were so excited (and apprehensive) about there purchase and appreciated the support I offered during this stressful time in their life. I even had clients send me a bouquet of flowers after the closing occurred. That made my day.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (5) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

Leigh in Fredericksburg, Virginia said: I even had clients send me a bouquet of flowers after the closing occurred. That made my day.
In nearly seven years of litigation, I don't think I can count on one hand the number of clients who thanked me when they left the attorney's office for the last time with settlement check in hand. My desk was next to his door for the first two years I worked for him. They could not help but see me. I had worked with these people on their cases for as long as a couple of years. I was astounded at how unappreciative they were.

I will say one client gave the attorney and me small penknives as a token of his appreciation after his case settled.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (3) / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

ABC in Cincinnati, Ohio

14 months ago

I enjoy being a Paralegal. Right now work is really slow. If you want to be a Paralegal I suggest taking specialty courses in Bankruptcy and Foreclosure. I would also look into corporate courses and insurance courses. Those are usually the busiest fields. If you want to make a decent amount of money you have to work downtown in a large city. They usually pay the best and have the best benifits.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (5) / No (2) Reply - Report abuse

Tara in Chicago, Illinois

14 months ago

I see that many of you mention that it is best to have a Bachelor's or an Associates degree, rather than a Certificate, in order to succeed as a paralegal.

Does that mean that you have to have a PARALEGAL Bachelor's or Associate's degree? I have a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, and I was planning on just going for a Paralegal Certificate. Would it be better for me to get a Paralegal Associate's degree instead...even though, I already have a BA?

Thanks,
Tara

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

Tara in Chicago, Illinois said: I have a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, and I was planning on just going for a Paralegal Certificate.
Perfect! The certificate and your existing Bachelor's are ample credentials to get you through the door.

If I may say it, your Anthro background may be valuable in helping you understand the Neanderthal personality types you will encounter in the typical law office.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (6) / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Tara in Chicago, Illinois

14 months ago

Ha Ha! Thanks! Great news.

I am starting this new career at 35 years old. I need something that I can get into FAST...with a decent salary. Do you think that I can make $40k in Chicago to start? Does your salary increase with experience and years? I believe I saw on Monster.com that the average salary for a Paralegal MANAGER in Chicago was $90k...that sounds pretty great. At least, there is room to grow years later.
What do you think?

Are there paralegal programs that are considered to be the top or the best in the country? I am looking locally in Chicago at Roosevelt University, Northwestern Business College (not THE Northwestern), Robert Morris College, and Loyola University (all ABA-approved). I would assume that Loyola would be the best because of its "name"??? Are there more prestigious paralegal schools elsewhere that could offer me better job prospects?

Thanks again!

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

It took me a little more than three months to find a job after I graduated. I had worked in two other industries before law. I was surprised at how tough it was to find a job.

You can determine authentic salaries for your area by looking at ads, online job postings, and wage information on your state's Department of Labor website and the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics website. FWIW, around here starting paralegal pay is $28K-$34K. I was earning $40K+bonus after more than eleven years. I was severely underpaid for my experience level. I knew it and my former boss knew it.

Look at online paralegal bios. If a particular school shows up more than others, perhaps you should consider it. As long as you attend an ABA-approved program you should be fine. Of course, every paralegal school you investigate will claim its grads work at "the best law firms, companies, banks and companies." Of course, cost would factor into your decision.

Finally, before committing I would strongly suggest you read all comments about working in the legal field on Indeed. To say the least, the legal profession is not the easiest one in which to work.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (2) / No Reply - Report abuse

HAPPYRN in Alhambra, California

14 months ago

Jim in Braintree, Massachusetts said: Do you like being a paralegal? Why or why not?

Please mention the "style" of paralegal that you are/were (corporate, government, etc.). And if you could mention how easy or difficult it is to get into that kind of position, availability

I'm trying to decide if going to school to be a paralegal is the right career move (as opposed to going to school for something else) and I've heard some differing views on this forum.

Maybe if I tell you what I want in career you might be able to tell me if being paralegal is a good job or may be able to suggest something better. I want a job that
pays at least 50k (not at the start but after 5 years); that requires only an associates degree or no degree; that isn't super stressful; but that also is challenging and rewarding (meaning that my work makes a difference to my clients and they appreciate my effort). I don't know how well a paralegal job holds up to these standards but I'm interested to see what you think.

RUN LIKE HELL AWAY FROM THE PARALEGAL PROFESSION. YOU ARE TREATED LIKE DIRT BY LAWYERS AND YOU WILL NEVER GET $50,000.00. IF YOU START GETTING OLDER AND LOSE YOUR LOOKS, BYE, BYE. I OBSERVED A DUMB, PRETTY GIRL GOT A POSITION AT A WELL KNOWN LEGAL FIRM DUE TO LOOKS ONLY (SHE WAS DUMB AT SCHOOL AND CHEATED ON ALL TESTS) AND SHE GOT THE JOB!!!!!SO, I WENT INTO NURSING AND NOT ONLY DO I LOVE IT, BUT IT OFFERS JOB SECURITY.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (4) / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

I am male, so I don't know if losing my looks affected my experiences. But I agree with you fully that lawyers treat paralegals poorly, to say the least.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (3) / No Reply - Report abuse

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri

14 months ago

No, I've been in the filed for 25 years and as long as you have a Bachelors Degree in any field I believe a Paralegal "Certificate" is fine.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Lianne in Omaha, Nebraska

14 months ago

Can you tell me what industry you moved to? I'm looking to take my 9 years of experience and BA in paralegal studies to a different field. But I have no idea what my degree and skills can transfer to. Thanks.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

You can take your quals and experience out of law firms. Corporations, companies, government, utilities and what have you hire paralegals.

FWIW my paralegal school preached to us that real property title companies like paralegals' legal knowledge, and research and organization skills. I always liked real property. I must have sent at least twenty resumes to title companies and heard nary a peep. So much for that idea. Maybe you will have better luck.

Finally, and I'm being somewhat facetious ;), you can post your resume on Monster and Careerbuilder. Trust me, you will get back more insurance, securities and similar sales offers than you can stand.

Good luck with your efforts.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No Reply - Report abuse

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri

14 months ago

Don't bother sending a cold resume...get a good headhunter and word of mouth is the best way to let people know you are looking for a new career. Do some volunteering in the field you are interested in...I hope this has been helpful. You may be interested in Nurse Consulting...a Paralegal Cert and/or Degree is wonderful for this field.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

The problem with headhunters is few of them, if any at all, are good. But that issue has been discussed elsewhere on this board.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri

14 months ago

I've had wonderful experiences with headhunters in L.A, however, that was many years ago. I believe that many of the current "style" of headhunters don't know what they're doing. A good and reputable headhunter is hard to find.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

The headhunters I've dealt with are rude, lie and don't keep promises. A headhunter got mad at my wife because she could not move out of state for a job. I don't want anything to do with them.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri

14 months ago

The headhunters that I worked with were in Los Angeles and extremely professional...they "owned" their own small firm. They fully tested each applicant and if you were weak in an area (including math), you didn't have to worry they trained and groomed you in your weak areas so that you "aced" every interview. I got 3 job offers in one day! Unfortunately, the owner has since retired and sold the firm. I think there is a strong need for this type of agency...again.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

I should have mentioned before that one headhunter tried to bind me for her fee should I terminate from her client. This was for a **fee-paid** position. I refused to sign the adhesion contract she pushed at me.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (1) / No Reply - Report abuse

Dean Suraci in Cornwall, New York

14 months ago

With Headhunters, you can use them, but!!!, don't expect a whole lot going in. And, always verify at the interview what the Headhunter has told you about the position. For ex., on the phone a young Headhunter told me a sales job covered one county. At the interview, the manager told me it consisted of four counties.

As one seeks more advanced work, the Headhunters do become more professional and better. USUALLY, the ones that find you temp work and perm work from approx. $1 to $70,000 lie and misrepresent. It's more about the money with these kinds than about morals. Ever notice the job postings about some firm looking for a Headhunter, alot of times it says, "Must be money motivated".

Lindsay, it's very hard to believe that the agency that you used actually helped job applicants in their few weak areas. I have never heard of such a thing. I guess if they felt that the applicant was intelligent enough, dynamic, had a great personality, and impressive enough resume, they wouldn't mind given ALITTLE time & training to the applicant.

Heads on Indeed always like to make the point, "Sorry but we represent the company, they are our client and they pay our fee". True, but it still never justifies treating potential applicants poorly.

Headhunter, Scumbag, Headhunter, Scumbag, Headhunter, Scumbag-Usually no difference at all folks.

In ending, remember, just be cautious when using Heads.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes (2) / No Reply - Report abuse

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri

14 months ago

I am telling you the truth about the agency...it was in 1986 in Sherman Oaks, CA. They DID everything I said. They had a marvelous client list and had been in business at least since 1955. It was BEFORE the big Internet craze...before the "Monster" board. I know the new breed of headhunters are ill mannered and out for as much money as they can get...they want it all NOW. Well, that's just the way it is sometimes.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No (1) Reply - Report abuse

Displaced Legal Professional in Denver, Colorado

14 months ago

Moderator

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri said: I am telling you the truth about the agency...it was in 1986 in Sherman Oaks, CA....
I'm not doubting you in the least. There's one in every crowd.

That said,

Lindsay in Saint Louis, Missouri said: I know the new breed of headhunters are ill mannered and out for as much money as they can get...they want it all NOW. Well, that's just the way it is sometimes.
Yep. That's the crowd and that's exactly the way it is.

- Was this comment helpful? Yes / No Reply - Report abuse

Page:   1  2  3  4  Next »   Last »

Your Reply

change location - create a profile
User Name
Your Comment
Your Email Address
Enter the numbers you see in the box
CAPTCHA Image

Be Reasonable! Be Polite! Please read our Terms of Service and Forum Rules, where it notes that you are responsible for your own comments. You may post anonymously - but we reserve the right to remove inappropriate comments at any time.

RSS Feed Icon Subscribe to this discussion as an RSS feed.

Moderate this forum