I just finished my first semester for my AAS in Paralegal Studies (Community College of Denver). Your videos have given me a lot of motivation these past few months. Thank you for the great content! All of my professors are either retired or practicing attorneys. Their commitment to law and teaching is very apparent. I could not recommend a local college more.
Great to hear and glad to be of some motivation. Please let me know if you'd like me to film something in particular that may be helpful to you. Of course, good luck to you with your studies and paralegal career journey! Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
Started at my local community College. Thank you for your input and encouragement. Its a challenge but I am enjoying it so far. I do need to get caught up on my typing 😩 skills.
Awesome! I am looking into Community College of Aurora (Colorado too!). Do your professors give any insight on freelance paralegal work? How is that job market?
Thank you so much for all your videos but this one in particular! I am starting my Paralegal program at my local college in Irvine, CA. in January and I am so excited! I loved when you mentioned working for Petsmart because I've worked in retail management for so long and I recently left. I am so ready for this change!
I will say one thing about the ABA accreditation... many prestigious schools don’t have accreditation, but their name weight pretty much compensated for it it seems. For example, Duke University and UC-Berkeley are both renowned T-14 law programs, but neither have bothered jumping through the hoops to get ABA accredited for their paralegal certification programs.
Hello Drew. Yes, I agree that many schools have not jumped through the hoops that the ABA requires. However, with the recent changes the ABA has made to the distinction of Paralegal versus Legal Assistant, and its definitions of the two, I think will cause a shift in the coming future of more and more schools becoming ABA approved. Having said that, I think the biggest trend I see with hiring firms is that they tend to place local college graduates (ABA-approved or not) at the top of the stack. Please keep in mind that I'm not promoting the ABA programs, but rather giving my opinion based on larger markets that I work and coach in. A lot of attorneys right now have really unrealistic expectations of what entry-level means, as well as requiring extensive credentials, and it's because they are receiving hundreds of applications for job postings. Attorneys are now applying for Paralegal positions. 😕 Thanks for watching and commenting. I should do a clarification video 🙂
Double-check where the paralegal program actually comes from. Just because it's on Berkeley's website doesn't mean it's from Berkeley. B Extension is not the same as the college itself. It's a way to get brand name recognition and more money to the schools. Also, Extension is online only. ABA allows online but requires some face-to-face (like via zoom) for their program. B Extension curriculium is done once it's placed online.
@@ArrowConsultants_MistyMurray That could definitely be the case! A lot of job applications ask for an ABA-approved program, but after speaking with many employers, they tend to follow up with saying that it’s not essential, which was interesting. I could certainly see the continued distinction between Paralegal and Legal Assistant. Interesting about local college graduates too... I’ll have to keep that in mind!
@@yosemite735 Yes, a lot of online certifications are through an extension program or office of continuing education! I think this is because they’re not offered for college credit, so the programs are administered differently? Not positive on that though. Even with that being the case though, a school’s extension program is more than likely going to reflect the academic rigor of its parent institution. I know when I looked into them, there was a lot of overlap in terms of the faculty that taught the programs. Many of them were alumni of the prestigious law programs from the respective schools.
Thank you so much for this video! You’ve given me so much insight, without all the extra unnecessary fluff I’ve decided to start my journey next year to paralegal certification after high school I’m so excited ☺️
Thank you so much for this video! I've always wanted to go into the legal field, but for whatever the reason it has taken me forever to get to this point. Great tips! Will definitely start working them now.
I go to school online at bryant and stratton college for my associates in paralegal studies but it's not ABA approved 😥it's a regionally accredited college at least But now I'm worried. So I just purchased a student membership for the Massachusetts Paralegal Association and there is tons of networking opportunities. I got that suggestion from ur videos! Local paralegal association are great u have access to jobs that are not posted anywhere else! I hope this will help me cuz my school is sucky
Thank you for making these videos! I'm currently in a paralegal program at the University of Washington and these videos are great for supplemental + practical information about the industry.
Glad you like them because that is exactly why I make them. The paralegal programs give us a pretty good foundation but the practical skills taught prior to being hired is lacking, in my opinion. Good luck with your studies. Thank you for stopping by, watching, and commenting. I appreciate you!
Also, your professors at the local CC are local practicing attornies. They know other local practicing attornies who know other local practicing attornies. Your internships can come from knowing your professors. Local CC all the way for the win.
Interesting video... can you please tell me what recommendations you have for a 67 year old veteran? I'm very interested, and have the basic typing skills and four year college degree.
It's never too late to turn the page and start a new chapter. I would make sure your software skills (technical skills) are clearly outlined on your resume (digital signature programs, cloud-based document management programs, Adobe Acrobat Pro, Microsoft Word, e-filing programs for local jurisdictions, etc.). You'll also want to make sure that if you're applying for a litigation job, that you have a clear understanding of the general litigation assembly line for your local jurisdictions. If you're applying for jobs handling medical records (personal injury, workers' compensation, etc.), you'll want to show on your resume that you have a firm grasp of HIPAA, Meaningful Use, the HITECH Act, the Electronic Healthcare (or Medical) Record (EHR/EMR), as well as have a wide medical terminology vocabulary. I hope this answer helps. On a side note, you've given me a great video idea. Thanks for watching and commenting. Good luck. I appreciate you!
I have no idea what I wanted to do or who I wanted to be. I’m on paralegal studies right now. I went to school for nursing and early childhood never finish still searching. I’m on paralegal studies now I hope it’s for me!!!
@@auroramothergoddess If youre still looking into apply for certificate program they rarely want to hire associates and bachelors due to not wanting to pay more, but i feel you can still negotiate
Do you cover the topic of the NALA certification in any other video? I currently have my AA in Paralegal Studies from an ABA approved local college. Now I am trying to pass the certified paralegal exam. I would love to hear your thoughts about the importance of passing this exam. Do you think it's worth the time, money, and energy it takes to pass?
@Michelle Nguyen depends on what state you're on. You have to follow all of the legal requirements specifically if your calling yourself a patalegal. CA you may need to be bonded as well as meet all of the required educational requirements. We are not allowed to gice legal advice
Here is my 2 cents on getting certified. Depending on where you are in your career it may or may not be worth it - NOW. An entry or mid-level position, probably not. However, I have heard from people who are going from mid-level to senior-level that they felt it gave them an advantage over others with equal or somewhat stronger skills. One person who moved a lot said she got a job in Hawaii when she was there because she was certified and managed to convince them that her mainland experience and national certification showed that she had the potential to do the job (she said law firms in Hawaii gave most paralegal jobs to people with experience working in Hawaii). I am also a certified project manager and have heard stories of people with decades of experience losing their jobs because their companies suddenly required them to attain certification by X date and they couldn't pass the test in time. So it is POSSIBLE that in the future it may become a requirement at more places to be a certified paralegal rather than just certificated.
Hi! Hoping for a reply. Is there a difference between an ABA-accredited paralegal program from a community college vs. a big university? Is name recognition a thing when it comes to something like this? Are there more opportunities at these big universities than community colleges? I know that the community college route is less expensive but is the overall experience better there or at a university? Sorry for bombarding an old video of yours with these questions, I'm just trying to go the best route possible.
Get your associates first, and then get your certificate. You do not need the certificate right away in most states, especially if you already have your associates degree. The certificate will just be icing on the cake. There are many levels of certification, and the further into your career you go, the deeper your certifications can get. Just stay on top of those required CLEs. Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
Umm, I can’t type super fast, at all, but Ive been a paralegal for five years. It’s not as important as she says it is, accuracy is what’s important and fast typers are usually more accurate. Most of the documents I produce came from a template from a previous case. Everything else she said is true, but I want to know if it is worth it for someone already working in the industry in the middle of a very large city who already has connections and relationships with law firms.
Hello :) Thank you for your video. I have a question I got my bachelor degree in criminal justice and I want to become a paralegal, but for a immigration firm , do you think I have to go back to school to become a paralegal? I hope you can help me out ! Thank you so much for being so helpful :)
If you eventually become a CP does it really matter if your education was aba accredited or not..if your nationality certified that should matter the most..imo
I was wondering this too because it is one of the cheaper programs out there and the certificate can be completed in just 14 weeks. I don't think it is ABA approved though
Yea they stopped paying the fee to keep the ABA accredited status. Their reasoning was that name recognition was enough for graduates of the program to get a job in the field. More notable universities are doing this like Cal and Duke. Also, depends if you have a Bachelor's degree already. Many law firms will ask for a Bachelors and paralegal certificate and make no mention of whether the cert has to be ABA accredited or not.
Hi Misty, I've been a law student for 3 years (out of 4yrs) but later dropped out and i'm wondering should i include such info in my resume or should I completely leave it out ? love your informative videos :)
I think it will depend on the job. My initial gut reaction is to leave it off, as the law firm reviewing your resume may worry that you wouldn't be a long-term employee because you might return to law school. Good luck to you! Thank you for stopping by, watching, and commenting. I appreciate you!
As a paralegal for many years, of course you should include it. Why would leave out 3 years of law school? Let them know you are serious about being a firm that will support you in finishing your goals.
That's okay. Just go beyond the scope of the online education. You're doing so already by watching my TH-cam, which means you're likely already absorbing everything you can out there about this profession. Awesome! Keep up the great work and never give up. Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
It depends on you state and area in which you're looking. For instance, if you're in a major market such as Chicago, you need a Certificate. If you're in a smaller market like Tulsa, Oklahoma, you do not need a Certificate. Having said that, I do recommend that you get your Certificate regardless. Thanks for watching and for your question. I appreciate you!
I have my Associates degree, but it's in science (because my original plan was to go into the medical field. But like a lot of people do...I changed my mind) I got experience working at a big law firm in their Intake Department, and also in their Masstorts department. I then got hired by another small firm and worked as a legal assistant also in the Masstorts department. It seems easier to me to continue going down the legal career path instead of trying to go back to the medical field path. I want to get my paralegal certificate, but I'm confused and not sure what's the best option for me. I'm located in Houston Texas, so I know there are a lot of opportunities out here. Can anyone please help point me in the right direction? Would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Your best bet is to get a certificate from an ABA school unless you want to do another associates in legal studies or paralegal. You also could get your BA or BS in legal studies.
@ Darlene - I agree, it is unfortunate. It's also unfortunate that many attorneys in large markets require this when most only require an associate's with a Certification, but some a bachelor's with a Certification. It really boils down to the area in which you want to work. The resumes that tend to land on the top of the stack are from local college graduates - associates or bachelors. The certification may even be a requirement, but for a lot of states, it isn't, including the one I'm in - Oklahoma. Local colleges are amazing resources, ABA-approved or not. Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you.
@Mick's Mom - nobody said you need to or even that it is (or was every) a requirement. But since you think I'm spreading BS, here's another suggestion, which is what I make on all of my TH-cam videos ... I suggest you start your own TH-cam channel and create your own platforms to spread your own BS instead of commenting on mine. Nobody needs your shitty comments in here. Be gone with you! Having said that, thanks for watching and commenting. Your comments, good or bad, help to support and promote my BS. So thanks for that 😂
Thanks for the massive enlightening this was like brand new concept for me but the way you interpreted it was really comprehensive information at all If I need to enroll in paralegal career how can I get here india
Juris Master's (MA in Legal Studies) or Associate in Applied Sciences in Paralegal Studies? I already have an MA but looking for a career change. What would you recommend?
Either is fine. Look at the job postings in your area and do a little research to find out the best avenue for you. The only recommendation I have about Paralegal studies is that you look beyond the curriculum and become extremely efficient with technology. Good luck to you! Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you.
Im looking into colleges right now and the closest college that offers ABA approved program is 8/9hrs away. I’m a mom so I can’t do that. This is what the college that’s close to me says “is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The Paralegal Program at CSN is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education, a national organization which promotes high standards for paralegal education.” What do you think? Should I just go for it? Thank you so much for your videos ❤️
I was about to enroll in National Paralegal College. They are nationally accredited, what ever that means. After watching this video Im going to go with my local Community College of Aurora here in Denver. They are ABA certified (prob for half the cost too.) I’ll begin doing my research tomorrow when the school is open. Great points made around the program needing to be specific to local laws and making connections with local teachers, employers and staff.
Hello! Since I’m a military wife, I’m going through National University. They’re ABA accredited and have an amazing discount for Active Duty dependents (if anyone watching this video is in a similar situation).
Thank you for providing our audience with valuable resources. I'm a military wife as well. Although my husband is no longer in the Air Force. Good luck to you. Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
I have a BSW and have worked in the foster care system specially the TPR unit (termination of parental rights) so I have some background in dealing with family law. I have not worked in my field for 16 yrs...I'm a flight attendant now (16 yrs) and due to the current climate I am wanting to get out. I'm also in my mid 40ies so going back to school would be a challenge.😏 Looking into the paralegal programs vs a certificate since I already have a degree. Not really needing another degree but would like to transfer into another field without too much schooling. Thoughts on what route would be best?
I just moved from Pakistan to Taxes. I have M. A English degree from Pakistan. Now i want to become a paralegal. I have no guidelines. Can you please give me some suggestions to start it. I will be very thankful to you for your kindness.
I am currently in the military and thinking about changing my MOS to a paralegal specialist. Would this actually be helpful for getting me a job outside of the military or would it just be a waist of time?
Hello how are you ? I have an Associate in criminal justice and a bachelor degree in John Jay. Now I am not sure now how I can enroll in a paralegal program. Can you please help?
You just pick and school with a paralegal program and contact them to enroll. Start with their website. It's the same steps for getting your bachelors.
I’m currently in my senior year of my undergraduate studies, and will graduate with a degree in English Literature. Paralegal studies has recently interested me, and I feel that it combines many of my favorite aspects of being an English student. Do you have advice for a student nearing graduation who wants to get started in the career field? I feel a bit overwhelmed and feel like the internet has a lot of conflicting information about how to get started.
Hey there, so I have my Associates in Liberal Arts (I had no clue what I wanted to do when I went to college) and Ive been looking into getting a Career Diploma or Certificate for being a paralegal. Would the certificate be sufficient and is it even worth it if I didnt go to college for legal studies?
A cert is sufficient for you since you have AA unless you want to get your bachelors in legal studies. I started with 2 bachelors in liberal arts but loved law enough to get an associates so you have options. Lawyers like bachelors as a minimum but your chances get better with added cert.
ABA IS NOT REQUIRED FOR ANYONE. It never was required. ABA is a membership, networking organization for attorneys and most attorneys are not even members because they are not required to be. I watched the ABA take over and manipulate the Paralegal education since before you were born. You're are spreading false information.
@Mick's Mom - And you're spreading false information through your comment if you think ABA is only for attorneys and that membership to the organization as a Paralegal comes with no value. Nobody said it was required or that it ever was. Perhaps you're too old to have evolved with the industry? I mean, if I'm too young to know any better ....... start a platform to bring your education to your fellow legal community. And as I mentioned before, thanks for commenting on my videos. Your shitty comments help to support my channel and promote my "false information" 😉
Its not required, but at the paralegal level, it will get you the interview before the non-aba will. Its the same cost. Why get a non-aba if you can get an ABA?
Misty did not say it was required. You're the one with the erroneous information and cantankerous attitude that's not helping anyone.FYI -- some lawyers do require it so it really depends. Just take a look at some of the more recent job ads for paralegals and stop badgering the smart folks with the true knowledge. I agree that you must be very old and not have evolved with the legal industry. If you're so much smarter, where is your proof and where is your evidence for your argument?
![The TRUTH About Google Career Certificates [ A Hiring Manager's Perspective ]](/img/n.gif)
I just finished my first semester for my AAS in Paralegal Studies (Community College of Denver). Your videos have given me a lot of motivation these past few months. Thank you for the great content!
All of my professors are either retired or practicing attorneys. Their commitment to law and teaching is very apparent. I could not recommend a local college more.
Great to hear and glad to be of some motivation. Please let me know if you'd like me to film something in particular that may be helpful to you. Of course, good luck to you with your studies and paralegal career journey! Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
Started at my local community College.
Thank you for your input and encouragement. Its a challenge but I am enjoying it so far. I do need to get caught up on my typing 😩 skills.
Awesome! I am looking into Community College of Aurora (Colorado too!). Do your professors give any insight on freelance paralegal work? How is that job market?
Hi! Do you know if CCD is ABA approved? It doesn’t say so online. I emailed the dept to ask but no response yet.
@@jayjackson7904 If school is not listed on the ABA website, then it's not ABA approved.
I guess you can say I'm an aspiring Paralegal. Your video is a godsend. I'll be looking into your channel religiously. Thank you!
I'm so happy you like my videos. Thank you for watching, commenting, and subscribing. I appreciate you!
An ABA program is also important for other reasons. For example, if you want to get Certified or Registered.
Thank you so much for all your videos but this one in particular! I am starting my Paralegal program at my local college in Irvine, CA. in January and I am so excited! I loved when you mentioned working for Petsmart because I've worked in retail management for so long and I recently left. I am so ready for this change!
hey! how is it going with the paralegal program? :) im looking into starting college and study that
I will say one thing about the ABA accreditation... many prestigious schools don’t have accreditation, but their name weight pretty much compensated for it it seems. For example, Duke University and UC-Berkeley are both renowned T-14 law programs, but neither have bothered jumping through the hoops to get ABA accredited for their paralegal certification programs.
EXACTLY! ABA has dominated the field. Anyone that pushes the ABA is scamming people.
Hello Drew. Yes, I agree that many schools have not jumped through the hoops that the ABA requires. However, with the recent changes the ABA has made to the distinction of Paralegal versus Legal Assistant, and its definitions of the two, I think will cause a shift in the coming future of more and more schools becoming ABA approved. Having said that, I think the biggest trend I see with hiring firms is that they tend to place local college graduates (ABA-approved or not) at the top of the stack. Please keep in mind that I'm not promoting the ABA programs, but rather giving my opinion based on larger markets that I work and coach in. A lot of attorneys right now have really unrealistic expectations of what entry-level means, as well as requiring extensive credentials, and it's because they are receiving hundreds of applications for job postings. Attorneys are now applying for Paralegal positions. 😕 Thanks for watching and commenting. I should do a clarification video 🙂
Double-check where the paralegal program actually comes from. Just because it's on Berkeley's website doesn't mean it's from Berkeley. B Extension is not the same as the college itself. It's a way to get brand name recognition and more money to the schools.
Also, Extension is online only. ABA allows online but requires some face-to-face (like via zoom) for their program. B Extension curriculium is done once it's placed online.
@@ArrowConsultants_MistyMurray That could definitely be the case! A lot of job applications ask for an ABA-approved program, but after speaking with many employers, they tend to follow up with saying that it’s not essential, which was interesting. I could certainly see the continued distinction between Paralegal and Legal Assistant. Interesting about local college graduates too... I’ll have to keep that in mind!
@@yosemite735 Yes, a lot of online certifications are through an extension program or office of continuing education! I think this is because they’re not offered for college credit, so the programs are administered differently? Not positive on that though. Even with that being the case though, a school’s extension program is more than likely going to reflect the academic rigor of its parent institution. I know when I looked into them, there was a lot of overlap in terms of the faculty that taught the programs. Many of them were alumni of the prestigious law programs from the respective schools.
Thank you so much for this video! You’ve given me so much insight, without all the extra unnecessary fluff I’ve decided to start my journey next year to paralegal certification after high school I’m so excited ☺️
You are so welcome! I'm excited to hear about your next journey. Good luck to you! Thank you for commenting and watching. I appreciate you 🙂🙏
Thank you so much for this video! I've always wanted to go into the legal field, but for whatever the reason it has taken me forever to get to this point. Great tips! Will definitely start working them now.
Good luck 🍀🙌
I go to school online at bryant and stratton college for my associates in paralegal studies but it's not ABA approved 😥it's a regionally accredited college at least But now I'm worried.
So I just purchased a student membership for the Massachusetts Paralegal Association and there is tons of networking opportunities. I got that suggestion from ur videos! Local paralegal association are great u have access to jobs that are not posted anywhere else! I hope this will help me cuz my school is sucky
Thank you for making these videos! I'm currently in a paralegal program at the University of Washington and these videos are great for supplemental + practical information about the industry.
Glad you like them because that is exactly why I make them. The paralegal programs give us a pretty good foundation but the practical skills taught prior to being hired is lacking, in my opinion. Good luck with your studies. Thank you for stopping by, watching, and commenting. I appreciate you!
Also, your professors at the local CC are local practicing attornies. They know other local practicing attornies who know other local practicing attornies. Your internships can come from knowing your professors. Local CC all the way for the win.
Interesting video... can you please tell me what recommendations you have for a 67 year old veteran? I'm very interested, and have the basic typing skills and four year college degree.
It's never too late to turn the page and start a new chapter. I would make sure your software skills (technical skills) are clearly outlined on your resume (digital signature programs, cloud-based document management programs, Adobe Acrobat Pro, Microsoft Word, e-filing programs for local jurisdictions, etc.). You'll also want to make sure that if you're applying for a litigation job, that you have a clear understanding of the general litigation assembly line for your local jurisdictions. If you're applying for jobs handling medical records (personal injury, workers' compensation, etc.), you'll want to show on your resume that you have a firm grasp of HIPAA, Meaningful Use, the HITECH Act, the Electronic Healthcare (or Medical) Record (EHR/EMR), as well as have a wide medical terminology vocabulary. I hope this answer helps. On a side note, you've given me a great video idea. Thanks for watching and commenting. Good luck. I appreciate you!
Thanks so much for all ur videos, I even take notes from them ! You are the best!
I have no idea what I wanted to do or who I wanted to be. I’m on paralegal studies right now. I went to school for nursing and early childhood never finish still searching. I’m on paralegal studies now I hope it’s for me!!!
Good luck 🍀😊 and Thank you for watching 🙌
Girl you’re telling me. I don’t know wth to do in life I’m bout tired already I’m looking into paralegal but I don’t want that to be a waste either
@@auroramothergoddess If youre still looking into apply for certificate program they rarely want to hire associates and bachelors due to not wanting to pay more, but i feel you can still negotiate
Would you mind making more videos on some training paralegals can do in specific fields they wanna go into..
I'll see what I can do. Thank you for the content idea, and of course for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
I love your mirrors ❤ thank you so much for sharing ✨
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
Alright. Just got my Degree AAS legal Studies for the Paralegal. I NEED THIS CERT right now! 😂
Would a Alison certificate allow you to take the NALA exam with an associates degree in Criminal Justice?
What about ashworth college? Paralegal studies?
Do you cover the topic of the NALA certification in any other video? I currently have my AA in Paralegal Studies from an ABA approved local college. Now I am trying to pass the certified paralegal exam. I would love to hear your thoughts about the importance of passing this exam. Do you think it's worth the time, money, and energy it takes to pass?
Same. Are you certified yet?
What would you use it for ? What is your goal? Are you going to work for an attorney or for yourself?
@@joannajensen2221 Hi! I am curious, what does it mean to work for yourself as a paralegal?
@Michelle Nguyen depends on what state you're on. You have to follow all of the legal requirements specifically if your calling yourself a patalegal. CA you may need to be bonded as well as meet all of the required educational requirements. We are not allowed to gice legal advice
Here is my 2 cents on getting certified. Depending on where you are in your career it may or may not be worth it - NOW. An entry or mid-level position, probably not. However, I have heard from people who are going from mid-level to senior-level that they felt it gave them an advantage over others with equal or somewhat stronger skills. One person who moved a lot said she got a job in Hawaii when she was there because she was certified and managed to convince them that her mainland experience and national certification showed that she had the potential to do the job (she said law firms in Hawaii gave most paralegal jobs to people with experience working in Hawaii). I am also a certified project manager and have heard stories of people with decades of experience losing their jobs because their companies suddenly required them to attain certification by X date and they couldn't pass the test in time. So it is POSSIBLE that in the future it may become a requirement at more places to be a certified paralegal rather than just certificated.
I definitely would look to a local college but there is nothing offered in this area.
I was confused and on the fence as far as schools. You just helped me make a choice! Thank you sooo much
Glad I could help! Good luck to you and all that you do. Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
Thank you so much for your videos!
You are so welcome! Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you.
Hi! Hoping for a reply. Is there a difference between an ABA-accredited paralegal program from a community college vs. a big university? Is name recognition a thing when it comes to something like this? Are there more opportunities at these big universities than community colleges? I know that the community college route is less expensive but is the overall experience better there or at a university? Sorry for bombarding an old video of yours with these questions, I'm just trying to go the best route possible.
Depends on the program. The one I went to many of the profs teach at both. Check the profs see where they teach and how in depth the program is
Hi ! Just found your channel and love it ! Question, is it worth it getting my associates in paralegal or should I go towards the certificate ?
Get your associates first, and then get your certificate. You do not need the certificate right away in most states, especially if you already have your associates degree. The certificate will just be icing on the cake. There are many levels of certification, and the further into your career you go, the deeper your certifications can get. Just stay on top of those required CLEs. Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
Great video!
Thank you!
Thank you very much.
You are welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
I’m on permanent disability but I have always had such a passion for law. I wondered if there’s work to do as consulting from home as a paralegal?
I'm interested to know as well
Berkeley Paralegal Progral does not offer the ABA certification, but is appreciated in the working enviroment?
No certification ? Tss..dam democrats
Umm, I can’t type super fast, at all, but Ive been a paralegal for five years. It’s not as important as she says it is, accuracy is what’s important and fast typers are usually more accurate. Most of the documents I produce came from a template from a previous case. Everything else she said is true, but I want to know if it is worth it for someone already working in the industry in the middle of a very large city who already has connections and relationships with law firms.
If you're already working, then getting AA or cert is not needed unless you want to move into big law or into management.
Hello :)
Thank you for your video. I have a question I got my bachelor degree in criminal justice and I want to become a paralegal, but for a immigration firm , do you think I have to go back to school to become a paralegal? I hope you can help me out ! Thank you so much for being so helpful :)
hello. may I ask what have you done?
If you eventually become a CP does it really matter if your education was aba accredited or not..if your nationality certified that should matter the most..imo
Hi, can you tell if the certificate online from BU is worthy?
I was wondering this too because it is one of the cheaper programs out there and the certificate can be completed in just 14 weeks. I don't think it is ABA approved though
Yea they stopped paying the fee to keep the ABA accredited status. Their reasoning was that name recognition was enough for graduates of the program to get a job in the field. More notable universities are doing this like Cal and Duke. Also, depends if you have a Bachelor's degree already. Many law firms will ask for a Bachelors and paralegal certificate and make no mention of whether the cert has to be ABA accredited or not.
Hey 👋what is the best book?? Thanks!
Hi Misty, I've been a law student for 3 years (out of 4yrs) but later dropped out and i'm wondering should i include such info in my resume or should I completely leave it out ? love your informative videos :)
I think it will depend on the job. My initial gut reaction is to leave it off, as the law firm reviewing your resume may worry that you wouldn't be a long-term employee because you might return to law school. Good luck to you! Thank you for stopping by, watching, and commenting. I appreciate you!
As a paralegal for many years, of course you should include it. Why would leave out 3 years of law school? Let them know you are serious about being a firm that will support you in finishing your goals.
Why did you drop out? Just curious
Thank you for the information
What is the best book to study for the test in your opinion?thanks
i’m a single mother and our local community college doesn’t provide anything so the online programs are really my only options 😔
That's okay. Just go beyond the scope of the online education. You're doing so already by watching my TH-cam, which means you're likely already absorbing everything you can out there about this profession. Awesome! Keep up the great work and never give up. Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
Can you give me some info on the online courses I also am a mother with children, and cannot leave my home as easily
You Rock!
Thank you. You Rock! 😀🙌
So do you need a certificate to become a paralegal?
It depends on you state and area in which you're looking. For instance, if you're in a major market such as Chicago, you need a Certificate. If you're in a smaller market like Tulsa, Oklahoma, you do not need a Certificate. Having said that, I do recommend that you get your Certificate regardless. Thanks for watching and for your question. I appreciate you!
I have my Associates degree, but it's in science (because my original plan was to go into the medical field. But like a lot of people do...I changed my mind) I got experience working at a big law firm in their Intake Department, and also in their Masstorts department. I then got hired by another small firm and worked as a legal assistant also in the Masstorts department. It seems easier to me to continue going down the legal career path instead of trying to go back to the medical field path. I want to get my paralegal certificate, but I'm confused and not sure what's the best option for me. I'm located in Houston Texas, so I know there are a lot of opportunities out here. Can anyone please help point me in the right direction? Would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Your best bet is to get a certificate from an ABA school unless you want to do another associates in legal studies or paralegal. You also could get your BA or BS in legal studies.
It's unfortunate that ABA approved colleges and universities charge $12,000 for an 8-month program vs $2,000 for a 4 month certificate program.
No one needs to be ABA approved. ABA has manipulated the legal profession. This vid is spreading BS.
@ Darlene - I agree, it is unfortunate. It's also unfortunate that many attorneys in large markets require this when most only require an associate's with a Certification, but some a bachelor's with a Certification. It really boils down to the area in which you want to work. The resumes that tend to land on the top of the stack are from local college graduates - associates or bachelors. The certification may even be a requirement, but for a lot of states, it isn't, including the one I'm in - Oklahoma. Local colleges are amazing resources, ABA-approved or not. Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you.
@Mick's Mom - nobody said you need to or even that it is (or was every) a requirement. But since you think I'm spreading BS, here's another suggestion, which is what I make on all of my TH-cam videos ... I suggest you start your own TH-cam channel and create your own platforms to spread your own BS instead of commenting on mine. Nobody needs your shitty comments in here. Be gone with you! Having said that, thanks for watching and commenting. Your comments, good or bad, help to support and promote my BS. So thanks for that 😂
Wow! My CC charges $46/unit. You need 30 units for an ABA certificate. It a great deal.
@@yosemite735 what school?
Thanks for the massive enlightening this was like brand new concept for me but the way you interpreted it was really comprehensive information at all
If I need to enroll in paralegal career how can I get here india
Juris Master's (MA in Legal Studies) or Associate in Applied Sciences in Paralegal Studies? I already have an MA but looking for a career change. What would you recommend?
Either is fine. Look at the job postings in your area and do a little research to find out the best avenue for you. The only recommendation I have about Paralegal studies is that you look beyond the curriculum and become extremely efficient with technology. Good luck to you! Thanks for watching and commenting. I appreciate you.
Im looking into colleges right now and the closest college that offers ABA approved program is 8/9hrs away. I’m a mom so
I can’t do that. This is what the college that’s close to me says “is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The Paralegal Program at CSN is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education, a national organization which promotes high standards for paralegal education.” What do you think? Should I just go for it? Thank you so much for your videos ❤️
I was about to enroll in National Paralegal College. They are nationally accredited, what ever that means. After watching this video Im going to go with my local Community College of Aurora here in Denver. They are ABA certified (prob for half the cost too.) I’ll begin doing my research tomorrow when the school is open. Great points made around the program needing to be specific to local laws and making connections with local teachers, employers and staff.
Nationally accredited means it a for profit college it's degrees are useless.
Hi Jamar, I recently relocated to Denver from LA. Have you enrolled in CC of Aurora? How do you like thus far?
Hello! Since I’m a military wife, I’m going through National University. They’re ABA accredited and have an amazing discount for Active Duty dependents (if anyone watching this video is in a similar situation).
Thank you for providing our audience with valuable resources. I'm a military wife as well. Although my husband is no longer in the Air Force. Good luck to you. Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate you!
No way! Do you know if they have any discounts for reservists?
@@drewrobbins65 I’m not sure! Their representatives are really helpful though
I’m going to be a military husband in less than a year, so this is good to know
Do you need to travel a lot and does this affect your career?
I have a BSW and have worked in the foster care system specially the TPR unit (termination of parental rights) so I have some background in dealing with family law. I have not worked in my field for 16 yrs...I'm a flight attendant now (16 yrs) and due to the current climate I am wanting to get out. I'm also in my mid 40ies so going back to school would be a challenge.😏 Looking into the paralegal programs vs a certificate since I already have a degree. Not really needing another degree but would like to transfer into another field without too much schooling. Thoughts on what route would be best?
I just moved from Pakistan to Taxes. I have M. A English degree from Pakistan. Now i want to become a paralegal. I have no guidelines. Can you please give me some suggestions to start it. I will be very thankful to you for your kindness.
I am currently in the military and thinking about changing my MOS to a paralegal specialist. Would this actually be helpful for getting me a job outside of the military or would it just be a waist of time?
Absolutely brother. It’s experience gained in the legal field.
Hi, I'm from Philippines, wanting to work remotely as Paralegal in your country, what should I do to be qualified? Thanks a lot.
Remote paralegals in US are required to have several years of on site work in U.S. law firms as a paralegal.
Hello how are you ? I have an Associate in criminal justice and a bachelor degree in John Jay. Now I am not sure now how I can enroll in a paralegal program. Can you please help?
You just pick and school with a paralegal program and contact them to enroll. Start with their website. It's the same steps for getting your bachelors.
I’m currently in my senior year of my undergraduate studies, and will graduate with a degree in English Literature. Paralegal studies has recently interested me, and I feel that it combines many of my favorite aspects of being an English student. Do you have advice for a student nearing graduation who wants to get started in the career field? I feel a bit overwhelmed and feel like the internet has a lot of conflicting information about how to get started.
Is there any updates I will soon be in your spot as well
Hey there, so I have my Associates in Liberal Arts (I had no clue what I wanted to do when I went to college) and Ive been looking into getting a Career Diploma or Certificate for being a paralegal. Would the certificate be sufficient and is it even worth it if I didnt go to college for legal studies?
Same question I have as well, any updates?
A cert is sufficient for you since you have AA unless you want to get your bachelors in legal studies. I started with 2 bachelors in liberal arts but loved law enough to get an associates so you have options. Lawyers like bachelors as a minimum but your chances get better with added cert.
I’m sorry did you say it took you two decades to transition from Petsmart to paralegal? 😮 I thought you were gonna say two years.
ABA IS NOT REQUIRED FOR ANYONE. It never was required. ABA is a membership, networking organization for attorneys and most attorneys are not even members because they are not required to be. I watched the ABA take over and manipulate the Paralegal education since before you were born. You're are spreading false information.
@Mick's Mom - And you're spreading false information through your comment if you think ABA is only for attorneys and that membership to the organization as a Paralegal comes with no value. Nobody said it was required or that it ever was. Perhaps you're too old to have evolved with the industry? I mean, if I'm too young to know any better ....... start a platform to bring your education to your fellow legal community. And as I mentioned before, thanks for commenting on my videos. Your shitty comments help to support my channel and promote my "false information" 😉
Its not required, but at the paralegal level, it will get you the interview before the non-aba will. Its the same cost. Why get a non-aba if you can get an ABA?
Misty did not say it was required. You're the one with the erroneous information and cantankerous attitude that's not helping anyone.FYI -- some lawyers do require it so it really depends. Just take a look at some of the more recent job ads for paralegals and stop badgering the smart folks with the true knowledge. I agree that you must be very old and not have evolved with the legal industry. If you're so much smarter, where is your proof and where is your evidence for your argument?