There are very few fields that are as rewarding as law. Whether you are interested in working for a prosecutor, defense attorney, corporate attorney, litigator, or transactional attorney, all of these fields have something in common, they all require a paralegal to support them. Unlike an attorney who must pass the State Bar of the state in which you would like to practice law, no formal education is required to become an entry-level paralegal other than dedication, attention to detail, and skin. thick … very thick skin. But, for those who can handle work in an intense environment driven by deadlines, a career as a paralegal can be the treasure at the end of the rainbow. It is crucial that your paralegal resume shines. Why? Because unlike other fields, a resume for the Legal field has an additional purpose: it is your writing sample. Tells the hiring partner: Do you understand the basics of grammar? Are you concise? Is your writing snappy, but informative?
These few tips will help you achieve a successful career as a paralegal:
Spelling and Grammar Checker – It always pains me to include this tip, because inevitably someone will point out a grammar or spelling error in my writing. But, since I am no longer a practicing attorney, I get a pass. With that said, PLEASE check your resume and cover letter for spelling and grammar. You have to realize, the documents that you are preparing and reviewing for your lawyer will be sent to courts, tribunals, opposing lawyers, etc. And, although the document will likely have the attorney’s name on it, you will prepare / review it. Almost all the lawyers I have met have something in common … EGO. No attorney wants to appear careless in front of their peers. So, make sure your resume and cover letter are meticulous – it will make a great first impression!
Show Interest: How can you show a lawyer that you are interested in a career as a paralegal if you are inexperienced? Easy, take courses. There are several online community college courses that are inexpensive and can be taken at your own pace. I understand that life moves quite fast, and while it may be almost impossible for you to find the time, you have to find the time. You can take the online courses on weekends whenever you want. Let me put it another way: Did you know that a certified paralegal for a top-tier law firm can earn 6 figures a year? Now can you find the time?
Be honest: all the attorneys spent 3 years in law school and passed the bar exam, no small feat. Lawyers are programmed to evaluate and assess facts and use them to draw conclusions. Presumably they will check your references and your employment history. Therefore, do not lie. Nobody starts at the top. Even the most successful paralegals generally started out working for a small operation. If necessary, hire a resume service that focuses on paralegal resumes to help you through the process.
Good luck!
