Paralegal Career Mastermind You’re welcome and it’s true. I will take your advice and roll with it as I step into my new career. Very much appreciated.
So nice to meet you! Thanks for your nice comment about the videos. Stay tuned for the November launch of my class "Paralegal Inner Circle Class" (link above in the Description Box for the WaitList).
So glad that I found your channel. I am 3 years into my legal studies undergraduate degree. I was starting to doubt my abilities and skills as I began searching for an internship. This was very encouraging. Thank you!
Great video.Thank you so much for spending your time to feed us with all this information. I decided to be a paralegal after working in the corporate admin for 17+ and the career transition has been a bit hard. Your information has encouraged me to keep moving forward to the paralegal field.
Keep moving forward, Maribel. What I would suggest is taking my Paralegal Inner Circle Class which will launch again in January, 2019. More info on my website www.LeslieSansoneWilliams.com/paralegal-inner-circle-class-info/
I've worked at the airport as a ticket agent... Clients would be easier haha I've had physical threats from passengers because THEY were LATE for THEIR flight xD didn't yell just called the cops.
I started looking at your videos and I love them. They are super insightful. I graduate with my Certificate to become a paralegal this fall! I been trying to obtain employment. It isn’t going well.
joann hernandez Joann... it's something I hear over and over again. I developed a course called Paralegal Inner Circle Class. I teach how to not only apply for jobs the right way, how to develop a cover letter that gets noticed but also the practical side of paralegalism. Hope you can join us! Enrollment is open until 9-11-18. www.lesliesansonewilliams.com/paralegal-inner-circle-class-info
Glad you're enjoying the videos, Mona Bellas. Be sure to check out my video regarding Criminal Law Paralegal Duties right here th-cam.com/video/ZqHYlCr428o/w-d-xo.html
I was just throwing paralegal out there as a maybe towards finishing my degree in criminal justice. I know that I want to be a part of the criminal justice system that makes a differences in how justice is carried out according to the correct procedure 🧐. I don't have much left to do to finish my Bachelor's degree🤗🤗🤗
Awesome! I just heard about this career and I'm getting so excited because it seems like the perfect field for me!! I hope I can find an attourney to take me under his wing :)
Michelle - Thanks for your comment! It's honestly rare for an attorney to provide any kind of training unless he or she is a teacher at heart. I was blessed in that my first experience was with an attorney who had that teacher's heart. And...so did the paralegal I worked with. It's quite unusual. The prep for this career has to be done by learning as much as you can on your own and then jumping into your first entry level job which will be the learning position. Best wishes!
Hi Leslie, I am glad I came across your video. I am in the process of a change of career & I am searching for paralegal positions at the NYC District Attorneys Office & I came across several Paralegal jobs & they require a Bachelors degree in any field with just clerical, filiing, problem-solving, organizational, interpersonal, verbal, writing communication experience. But I don’t know anything about paralegal or their daily routine on the job or field. If I apply & get a call for a job interview; I am afraid that the interviewer may say, “I see you’ve graduated from College & earned a Bachelors degree in Criminology, “Why do you want to become a Paralegal?” & “Why do you want to work for our organization?” I get anxiety & very nervous. What opinion or advice you can share with me? Thank you for your time. Blessings🙏🏾 Stormi
Kris - The type of brainstorming you need to do is figure out the "why". Why do you want to enter the paralegal field??Jot your ideas down in the form of bullet points. Only you can answer this question. If it's for the money - you won't be making good money as an entry level paralegal, legal assistant or legal secretary. Soooo...write down your reasons. I've done several "Live" videos on my Paralegal Coffee Talk page on Facebook you should check out. In my book, Legal Break-In I go into several different types of paralegal jobs which gives you a good idea of the duties for each position. Knowing more about the different types of positions out there will provide you with the information you need which should reduce nervousness and anxiety. Also, watch my video here entitled "Why I Removed Mention of Higher Education". One last thing - my "Paralegal Inner Circle Class" launches again in June. Check out my info page here: www.lesliesansonewilliams.com/paralegal-inner-circle-class-info/
I loooove my job as a paralegal!!! Its learning new things and skills everytime that drive me!!! I've been thrown into a shark tank with my first attorney, and then my second attorney showed me the ropes of what I should learn to do first, which was learning the secretarial part of the firm. By the time I was with my third attorney (due to relocating), I was ready to take on new and bigger tasks, as well as be able to work independently. I started to really developed skills and become more talented in the job I did simply out of the love of researching to keep myself informed of the things I needed to know to help me become better in the field!! Plus, it helps to be a great note taker, and a bonus for your attorney if you love to write all the time in your personal time - which is something I've loved doing all my life!
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind Thankyou!!! I wanted to do something bigger than myself in my life- at the time I was in my early 20's. I saw the opportunity for online classes in a newspaper ad - at the time, I was also going through a toxic relationship. I decided to take the classes as a way to learn more about my situation so I could also help others, as I've witnessed some friends and family go through some rough times as well, where court was involved, and I wanted to have something substantial to be able to help. The classes were only for 4 months, but I truly love the job, and have become very passionate about it!
Liana - Thanks for your comment. Be sure to check out my free 'Paralegal Resource Hub'. The link is under 'Paralegal Resource Hub' over at www.ParalegalCoffeeTalk.com
Hi Isabella!! Yes, my car is yellow! 14 yrs. ago I fell in love at first sight and it still runs like a top! lol Glad you like the content. - Leslie :)
Just wanted to know the difference between an lawyer and an attorney, do they do clerical work? Are required to type at certain speeds, file papers, answer phones, clean and do secretarial work? How do they get paid?
Shelly - the titles "lawyer" & "attorney" mean exactly the same thing. These are folks who have gone through 4 years of college & then 3 years of law school (in the U.S.). After schooling, they must study for something called the Bar Exam, pass it & then apply to be admitted to an organization called the "Bar" in the state in which the live. Attorneys/Lawyers are the only folks who are allowed to provide legal advice. Paralegals are not allowed to provide legal advice. They are assistants to the Attorneys/Lawyers. I have a feeling you're needing information regarding the Paralegal Career, correct? If so, watch a lot of videos here and take notes. It' will help you greatly. Paralegals do clerical work and also perform true paralegal work which involves creating legal documents, research and much more. Regarding "cleaning", we straighten up conference rooms after a meeting and make coffee, if need be. It really depends on the workplace. Salaries also depend on each individual workplace, as well, so it's not something I discuss on this channel. Hopefully this helps a bit. Very good questions! - Leslie :)
What would you recommend for a student getting a Bachelor in History? I’m in my junior year but I honestly don’t feel like adding more student debt since I’m a bit insecure on how I’m gonna get a job with it. I was thinking on rather getting a AS in paralegal studies while trying to work as a clerk or secretary (paying my own tuition) in the legal field. I always view myself as a helper so I’m thinking paralegal might fit me. I’ve been working at Disney (over 3 yrs) so I already grasped kind of the idea on how to deal with customers and expectations from managers. I am a good observer and I self teach myself a lot of things. Plus I am bilingual too. I will appreciate your advice and feedback. God bless!
Lena - (1) Be sure to watch my video "Zero Debt"; (2) You have to look at what govt & some corp. jobs require (in their job ads); (3) Going to law school is a personal choice - do you want to be a lawyer? - Leslie :)
lesliewilliams126 Well i never thought i had the potential to become a lawyer. I mean i had a case with my friend and we wernt able to afford a lawyer for her and so i did a lot of research and wrote an affadavit, and just typing up reasons why she is just extremely ill. The case was a success and the crown was pleased and wanted to meet me. She told me how i would be an excellent paralegal and so as im watching ur videos (theyre amazing by the way -theyre so detailed 😄) im seeing that its just everything i feel i fit into 😃 I dont have a lot of money to afford law school but i noticed thst some colleges have diplomas for law clerk or paralegal. I wasnt quite sure if it was suitable or qualified enough if i were to apply for a paralegal position in a court or in a corporation or just a small firm and so forth. But i will watch that video you mentioned right now 😊
Could I be a Paralegal if I have a speech impediment particularly stuttering? My stutter isn’t severe. It’s more moderate. Some days it’s worse than others. When I do stutter it’s pretty obvious.
A stutter won't hurt u as a paralegal any more than it would in any other primarily office work job. Your writing and typing skills are more important! I would say your good!
Oliver - hi, thanks for the question. Learning the law vs. how to apply it practically is a huge difference. As paralegals, we're given the task oftentimes to research the law and asked to produce an analysis for the attorney to review. So, along the path of this paralegal career, we become paralegals who specialize in certain areas of law and learn how to keep up with the changes to the same. The learning never stops for either the attorney or the paralegal. When either start out in their respective careers, there's still much to learn and the journey begins. So, how much law a paralegal learns vs. a 1,2,3L law student isn't as important as what happens along journey and how much effort is put into the careers as both parties move forward. Let me know if I've provided the answer you're looking for.
What would you recommend as a college student finishing their associates/general education considering Paralegal? I'm worried that it won't be "enough money." Money isn't the deciding factor but it's in important one. What would you say as I'm 20 years old considering?
Emily - Breaking into a new career requires a lot of sacrifice. How much of a sacrifice financially depends solely on your personal needs. In some of my videos, I mention traveling long distances everyday in a very old car, waiting for the day I could trade up (job and car) which I did. The question always is...is this career pulling you in because of the work involved? The everyday administrative work? That's the first step. :))
Hey Leslie! I have finally decided to enter the Paralegal field. Can being just a paralegal be a career? Or is being a paralegal just the first step to get into Law School? On average how much do paralegals make a year?
Thanks for your questions, Ashley. Take your time watching the videos here and take notes while doing so. Wonderful info here. P.S. I never quote salaries. - Leslie.
Hi! Name’s Julian. Just signed up for the Paralegal concentration under the English Major at my college (Kutztown University). I stumbled across this video and I honestly have so many questions to ask regarding what’s expected in the paralegal field. Question 1: Do you usually end up being the ONLY paralegal working with a lawyer or law firm? Or does it vary? Questioin 2: On a scale of 1-10, how easy was it for you when you had to learn to become a paralegal in college/university? I mean in terms of acquiring the knowledge necessary for the field. 10 being insanely hard and 1 being extremely easy. Question 3: Is it ever fun working as a paralegal? Or is everything just professional 24/7 like a strict office job?
Julian - it's very important to binge watch all the videos here on my channel & take good notes while doing so. Lots of questions answered plus others you might not have thought of! - Leslie :)
Great 8 - No, not usually. Because of insurance restrictions, most attorneys are not considering this option. That's also why it's rare for an attorney to offer an internship. Insurance companies prefer the attorney actually hire the person as an employee. - Leslie
I am a teacher but am tired of it and am thinking of going back to working in law firms. I worked as a secretary and temped in many law firms. I think it would be great to get a job. Do you recommend an agency or applying directly?
Hi, Mrs. Williams congratulations on your time you put to help us with the ins and outs of the field. What is the salary for a new para legal? Thank you so much.
Totally depends upon where you work and how they feel Tyler. Hard question to answer. 20 years ago, probably not, but today? I believe there's a lot more acceptance. - Leslie :)
Hi Mathew - You must have office skills, number one, for a position in any area of law. Number two, do research online as to what degree, if any, your state requires in order to be called a Paralegal. Regarding your other question, I do not consult with people on the phone - it would be overwhelming to do that, honestly. Thanks for asking though.
It's so wonderful to see you replying to people that commented this year even though you posted this video 7 years ago. I'll watch your other videos, you sound down to Earth, encouraging and realistic, thank you and if you have the time it might be great if you did a video on whether or not things in this field are still the same as 7 years ago when you made it or if you've seen some shifts and changes regarding anything really, like the workforce, how are they handling what seems to be in some places the push for diversity hiring and similar, I'm honestly curious, thanks again.
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind About to graduate and im not confident in my writing skills , i feel like im only okay .. i guess i may not be able to work with my degree
Hi.. Your video was really great. Well, I'm a lawyer here in India and planning to move to Canada and became a Paralegal. Will that be possible?.. I mean I have no one to guide me and I really hope you can really help me out with that.
Rakib, thanks for your question. My recommendation is that you perform research concerning what is required of Canadian Paralegals. It can be quite different from country to country.
Leslie, Thank you so much for your answer. We'll, actually I'm planning to study diploma in Paralegal and then I hope I'll be qualified to work as a Paralegal in Canada once I get my certificate. So, can you please help me out with which college and state should I look for? Also, should I opt for diploma or a degree? I mean to what I have researched diploma would be sufficient if I already have a law degree(of any country). Can you please guide me.
@@khanrakibrk Wish I could help, however, I sincerely do not recommend going the degree path to my students. Many do anyway, however, my focus is teaching people how to break in (US ONLY) without formal education.
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind.. Oh I see. Then I'll stick to my diploma course😄. Wish if someone could help me with the college and state confusion but still, you have really helped me and I sincerely want to thank you for that. Also, if you don't mind can I ask you if you are still practicing as a Paralegal or not?
Rakib khan I am also thinking same to move on Canada having the law degree in india. It will be fruit full or waste, have you got the answer that it will be a good option.
Glad you enjoyed it, Anna. Be sure to go to my website to get the 2 complimentary items there - the "19 Alternative Paralegal Careers List" & also a free chapter of my book "Legal Break-In". Just go here: www.LeslieSansoneWilliams.com
lesliewilliams126 I'm sorry I wasn't clear enough 😭 but yes what major I should be in while taking a paralegal course, because the school I want to get into offers the course as non-credit course I believe, and I want to know what would be best to major in as I take this course
Well, one of the general areas is litigation (any type of law re preparation for trial). Bankruptcy law, for instance, ebbs and flows depending on what the economy is doing. Same issue with real estate law. However, studying Commercial or Business Law, Patent/Trademark Law, Immigration - these are all great areas and can result in trial prep. Also, a lot of depends on where your interest lies, too. That's why I suggest exploration and discovery about yourself and what would make you passionate about your work before enrolling in anything. Let me know if this helps or if I can clarify further, ok? Great question, mel.
Hi Claire - Thanks for your question. Most (not all) people breaking into this field for the first time start at a lower rate of pay for the industry because they're new to the career. What that pay is, is determined by many factors - city, state, law firm or company, what type of knowledge you bring to the table, etc. Can't really give you a definitive answer on whether this salary would support a family or not because it truly depends on your standard of living, how many are in the family, etc. Very hard to answer. - Leslie
Claire Alison If you want to be a paralegal, become an IP paralegal or in corporate and securities. I know IP paralegals that make at least 80k a year. Any kind of law besides that is not worth it.
I do, Kristen. In my online class, "Paralegal Inner Circle Class", I teach how to review job ads properly, how to develop a cover letter that gets noticed, what attorneys really wish you knew and much more. Take a moment to check out the class on my website here www.LeslieSansoneWilliams.com/ Overall, there's nothing wrong with having an education and being certified but attorneys need someone who knows how to hit the ground running from Day 1. Even if a job ad says "Training provided", never count on that. It's rarely true. So, in my class, I give you a lot of what entry level legal assistants/paralegals need to know before the cover letter and resume are sent out. Hope this helps.
If you feel pulled to this Career, then go for it. You must have office skills. And...you don't have to go into debt to enter this career. Remember that. - Leslie :)
@@daisygonzalez542 Daisy - people enter this career with or without degrees. It's more about "how and what will you do to assist the attorney?" Knowing the answer to that is the most important thing. Others may tell you differently - that having degrees is of the utmost importance. Not so. - Leslie :)
FINALLY A REAL TRUE VIDEO ABOUT BEING A PARALEGAL!!!!!!
I had to kiss a lot of frogs to get to you...lbvs
THANK YOU for your awesome insight!
Thanks WriterLady2! What a nice compliment. Glad you're enjoying the videos! - Leslie :)
Paralegal Career Mastermind You’re welcome and it’s true. I will take your advice and roll with it as I step into my new career. Very much appreciated.
I love that i found your videos, they are so insightful. I am looking into joining the paralegal field.
So nice to meet you! Thanks for your nice comment about the videos. Stay tuned for the November launch of my class "Paralegal Inner Circle Class" (link above in the Description Box for the WaitList).
I switched my major to Paralegal Studies today from microbiology I feel like I finally find what I am going to do.
Fantastic! Congratulations!!
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind Thank you, i already really love your channel. Thank you for doing what you do
You are so welcome! Have a great day. - Leslie :)
Graduating with a criminal justice degree and decided to go for a post-bachelor's paralegal certificate. Needed to hear this. Thank you.
You are very welcome, Nicolette. - Leslie :)
So glad that I found your channel. I am 3 years into my legal studies undergraduate degree. I was starting to doubt my abilities and skills as I began searching for an internship. This was very encouraging. Thank you!
Great video.Thank you so much for spending your time to feed us with all this information. I decided to be a paralegal after working in the corporate admin for 17+ and the career transition has been a bit hard. Your information has encouraged me to keep moving forward to the paralegal field.
Keep moving forward, Maribel. What I would suggest is taking my Paralegal Inner Circle Class which will launch again in January, 2019. More info on my website www.LeslieSansoneWilliams.com/paralegal-inner-circle-class-info/
Absolutely!! Thank you :)
I earned an associates degree from Los Angeles City College in paralegal studies
Great!
OH MY GOODNESS, thank you so much for this video! You have no idea how conflicted I've been with wanting to get into law!
Don't do it.
Lazy.Ass.Ninjas ????
I've worked at the airport as a ticket agent... Clients would be easier haha I've had physical threats from passengers because THEY were LATE for THEIR flight xD didn't yell just called the cops.
Totally understand. A relative of mine was a ticket agent, too.
Try working for TSA 🤣😅😂😂🤣😅🤣😂
Gray Slim619 TSA Work ,it’s a very toxic work Environment Don’t try it.
I was searching for Paralegal related videos, i came across your videos, very inspiring. Interested to do so
Have fun and go for it! - Leslie :)
I started looking at your videos and I love them. They are super insightful. I graduate with my Certificate to become a paralegal this fall! I been trying to obtain employment. It isn’t going well.
joann hernandez Joann... it's something I hear over and over again. I developed a course called Paralegal Inner Circle Class. I teach how to not only apply for jobs the right way, how to develop a cover letter that gets noticed but also the practical side of paralegalism. Hope you can join us! Enrollment is open until 9-11-18. www.lesliesansonewilliams.com/paralegal-inner-circle-class-info
What state are you in?
Glad I found you! I will be learning from your videos. I’m interested in becoming a Criminal Paralegal.
Glad you're enjoying the videos, Mona Bellas. Be sure to check out my video regarding Criminal Law Paralegal Duties right here th-cam.com/video/ZqHYlCr428o/w-d-xo.html
This is great because I’m thinking about becoming a Paralegal!
Great clip. Thank you.
I needed to hear this. Thank you
You are so welcome! - Leslie :)
Love it !! Thank you ❤
I was just throwing paralegal out there as a maybe towards finishing my degree in criminal justice. I know that I want to be a part of the criminal justice system that makes a differences in how justice is carried out according to the correct procedure 🧐. I don't have much left to do to finish my Bachelor's degree🤗🤗🤗
Awesome!
Awesome! I just heard about this career and I'm getting so excited because it seems like the perfect field for me!! I hope I can find an attourney to take me under his wing :)
Michelle - Thanks for your comment! It's honestly rare for an attorney to provide any kind of training unless he or she is a teacher at heart. I was blessed in that my first experience was with an attorney who had that teacher's heart. And...so did the paralegal I worked with. It's quite unusual. The prep for this career has to be done by learning as much as you can on your own and then jumping into your first entry level job which will be the learning position. Best wishes!
any luck?
Hi Leslie, I am glad I came across your video. I am in the process of a change of career & I am searching for paralegal positions at the NYC District Attorneys Office & I came across several Paralegal jobs & they require a Bachelors degree in any field with just clerical, filiing, problem-solving, organizational, interpersonal, verbal, writing communication experience. But I don’t know anything about paralegal or their daily routine on the job or field.
If I apply & get a call for a job interview; I am afraid that the interviewer may say, “I see you’ve graduated from College & earned a Bachelors degree in Criminology, “Why do you want to become a Paralegal?” & “Why do you want to work for our organization?”
I get anxiety & very nervous. What opinion or advice you can share with me?
Thank you for your time. Blessings🙏🏾
Stormi
Kris - The type of brainstorming you need to do is figure out the "why". Why do you want to enter the paralegal field??Jot your ideas down in the form of bullet points. Only you can answer this question. If it's for the money - you won't be making good money as an entry level paralegal, legal assistant or legal secretary. Soooo...write down your reasons. I've done several "Live" videos on my Paralegal Coffee Talk page on Facebook you should check out. In my book, Legal Break-In I go into several different types of paralegal jobs which gives you a good idea of the duties for each position. Knowing more about the different types of positions out there will provide you with the information you need which should reduce nervousness and anxiety. Also, watch my video here entitled "Why I Removed Mention of Higher Education". One last thing - my "Paralegal Inner Circle Class" launches again in June. Check out my info page here: www.lesliesansonewilliams.com/paralegal-inner-circle-class-info/
I loooove my job as a paralegal!!! Its learning new things and skills everytime that drive me!!!
I've been thrown into a shark tank with my first attorney, and then my second attorney showed me the ropes of what I should learn to do first, which was learning the secretarial part of the firm. By the time I was with my third attorney (due to relocating), I was ready to take on new and bigger tasks, as well as be able to work independently. I started to really developed skills and become more talented in the job I did simply out of the love of researching to keep myself informed of the things I needed to know to help me become better in the field!! Plus, it helps to be a great note taker, and a bonus for your attorney if you love to write all the time in your personal time - which is something I've loved doing all my life!
So proud of what you've accomplished Jazmyne! Awesome. How did you initially break into the career? What was your process?
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind Thankyou!!! I wanted to do something bigger than myself in my life- at the time I was in my early 20's. I saw the opportunity for online classes in a newspaper ad - at the time, I was also going through a toxic relationship. I decided to take the classes as a way to learn more about my situation so I could also help others, as I've witnessed some friends and family go through some rough times as well, where court was involved, and I wanted to have something substantial to be able to help. The classes were only for 4 months, but I truly love the job, and have become very passionate about it!
@@chica2086 Awesome, hon. Proud of you! - Leslie :)
@@chica2086 Hi. Can you share what online institution you studied with please?
@@tarshaneilly518 I can't remember it off hand as I had this done 10 years ago.
Great talker.
I’m thinking about joining the paralegal Field this help a lot
Great video! Thanks for posting!
Glad you enjoyed it, Carlos! - Leslie :)
Thanks for your insight 🙂
Very informative video. Thanks !
Thank you, Flyer Aerospace!
Thank you. Great video.
You are very welcome, Kendra! Thanks for being here. - Leslie :)
Amazing video thanks for the links
Thanks! You are very welcome. - Leslie :)
Well because jobs are so little of I have to get a degree in order to just get my foot into the door in order to intern and eventually
Liana - Thanks for your comment. Be sure to check out my free 'Paralegal Resource Hub'. The link is under 'Paralegal Resource Hub' over at www.ParalegalCoffeeTalk.com
is your car yellow? I'm in love. incredible content too!! lol
Hi Isabella!! Yes, my car is yellow! 14 yrs. ago I fell in love at first sight and it still runs like a top! lol Glad you like the content. - Leslie :)
Thank you Leslie.
LaughingLOLZ...you are very welcome. Have a great day!
Just wanted to know the difference between an lawyer and an attorney, do they do clerical work? Are required to type at certain speeds, file papers, answer phones, clean and do secretarial work? How do they get paid?
Shelly - the titles "lawyer" & "attorney" mean exactly the same thing. These are folks who have gone through 4 years of college & then 3 years of law school (in the U.S.). After schooling, they must study for something called the Bar Exam, pass it & then apply to be admitted to an organization called the "Bar" in the state in which the live. Attorneys/Lawyers are the only folks who are allowed to provide legal advice. Paralegals are not allowed to provide legal advice. They are assistants to the Attorneys/Lawyers. I have a feeling you're needing information regarding the Paralegal Career, correct? If so, watch a lot of videos here and take notes. It' will help you greatly. Paralegals do clerical work and also perform true paralegal work which involves creating legal documents, research and much more. Regarding "cleaning", we straighten up conference rooms after a meeting and make coffee, if need be. It really depends on the workplace. Salaries also depend on each individual workplace, as well, so it's not something I discuss on this channel. Hopefully this helps a bit. Very good questions! - Leslie :)
What would you recommend for a student getting a Bachelor in History?
I’m in my junior year but I honestly don’t feel like adding more student debt since I’m a bit insecure on how I’m gonna get a job with it. I was thinking on rather getting a AS in paralegal studies while trying to work as a clerk or secretary (paying my own tuition) in the legal field. I always view myself as a helper so I’m thinking paralegal might fit me. I’ve been working at Disney (over 3 yrs) so I already grasped kind of the idea on how to deal with customers and expectations from managers. I am a good observer and I self teach myself a lot of things. Plus I am bilingual too. I will appreciate your advice and feedback. God bless!
Jelisa Sanchez Ramirez
Disney has an in-house counsel, so you might be able to ask about getting a position there since you work there.
great video very well explained A+
Q MAn...thanks so much - appreciate your kind words. Thanks for visiting my channel!
If i do a diploma in college for paralegal, would corporations, governments hire me? or should i go to law school?
Lena - (1) Be sure to watch my video "Zero Debt"; (2) You have to look at what govt & some corp. jobs require (in their job ads); (3) Going to law school is a personal choice - do you want to be a lawyer? - Leslie :)
lesliewilliams126 Well i never thought i had the potential to become a lawyer. I mean i had a case with my friend and we wernt able to afford a lawyer for her and so i did a lot of research and wrote an affadavit, and just typing up reasons why she is just extremely ill. The case was a success and the crown was pleased and wanted to meet me. She told me how i would be an excellent paralegal and so as im watching ur videos (theyre amazing by the way -theyre so detailed 😄) im seeing that its just everything i feel i fit into 😃
I dont have a lot of money to afford law school but i noticed thst some colleges have diplomas for law clerk or paralegal. I wasnt quite sure if it was suitable or qualified enough if i were to apply for a paralegal position in a court or in a corporation or just a small firm and so forth. But i will watch that video you mentioned right now 😊
Could I be a Paralegal if I have a speech impediment particularly stuttering? My stutter isn’t severe. It’s more moderate. Some days it’s worse than others. When I do stutter it’s pretty obvious.
A stutter won't hurt u as a paralegal any more than it would in any other primarily office work job. Your writing and typing skills are more important! I would say your good!
Isaiah Barr do whatever you want !!
Thank you for this
You're so welcome, Noah! Glad you enjoyed the video. - Leslie
How much law have you learned compared to a law student? 1, 2, 3L? Sorry for being simple.
Oliver - hi, thanks for the question. Learning the law vs. how to apply it practically is a huge difference. As paralegals, we're given the task oftentimes to research the law and asked to produce an analysis for the attorney to review. So, along the path of this paralegal career, we become paralegals who specialize in certain areas of law and learn how to keep up with the changes to the same. The learning never stops for either the attorney or the paralegal. When either start out in their respective careers, there's still much to learn and the journey begins. So, how much law a paralegal learns vs. a 1,2,3L law student isn't as important as what happens along journey and how much effort is put into the careers as both parties move forward. Let me know if I've provided the answer you're looking for.
What would you recommend as a college student finishing their associates/general education considering Paralegal? I'm worried that it won't be "enough money." Money isn't the deciding factor but it's in important one. What would you say as I'm 20 years old considering?
Emily - Breaking into a new career requires a lot of sacrifice. How much of a sacrifice financially depends solely on your personal needs. In some of my videos, I mention traveling long distances everyday in a very old car, waiting for the day I could trade up (job and car) which I did. The question always is...is this career pulling you in because of the work involved? The everyday administrative work? That's the first step. :))
Hey Leslie! I have finally decided to enter the Paralegal field. Can being just a paralegal be a career? Or is being a paralegal just the first step to get into Law School? On average how much do paralegals make a year?
Thanks for your questions, Ashley. Take your time watching the videos here and take notes while doing so. Wonderful info here. P.S. I never quote salaries. - Leslie.
Hi! Name’s Julian. Just signed up for the Paralegal concentration under the English Major at my college (Kutztown University). I stumbled across this video and I honestly have so many questions to ask regarding what’s expected in the paralegal field.
Question 1: Do you usually end up being the ONLY paralegal working with a lawyer or law firm? Or does it vary?
Questioin 2: On a scale of 1-10, how easy was it for you when you had to learn to become a paralegal in college/university? I mean in terms of acquiring the knowledge necessary for the field. 10 being insanely hard and 1 being extremely easy.
Question 3: Is it ever fun working as a paralegal? Or is everything just professional 24/7 like a strict office job?
Julian - it's very important to binge watch all the videos here on my channel & take good notes while doing so. Lots of questions answered plus others you might not have thought of! - Leslie :)
Would you perhaps know anything about the Canadian paralegal scene?
Unfortunately, I do not Mariam. - Leslie
i like your video. i am starting to go to school for paralegal. just dont know what law to get in
Can you work from home as an entry level paralegal with an associates degree?
Great 8 - No, not usually. Because of insurance restrictions, most attorneys are not considering this option. That's also why it's rare for an attorney to offer an internship. Insurance companies prefer the attorney actually hire the person as an employee. - Leslie
I am a teacher but am tired of it and am thinking of going back to working in law firms. I worked as a secretary and temped in many law firms. I think it would be great to get a job. Do you recommend an agency or applying directly?
I am a new subbie to you.
Hi there. I don't usually recommend agencies. Great to have you here. Lots of great info in the videos here. Enjoy! - Leslie :)
Hi, Mrs. Williams congratulations on your time you put to help us with the ins and outs of the field. What is the salary for a new para legal? Thank you so much.
Can paralegals have hand tattoos
Totally depends upon where you work and how they feel Tyler. Hard question to answer. 20 years ago, probably not, but today? I believe there's a lot more acceptance. - Leslie :)
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind thank you !
Have you had any racist/discriminatory coworkers? That's the most important part is seeing everyone as a person. It's someone's life right?
Alexander - No, haven't personally.
how to get a entry level job in immigration paralegal
Hi Mathew - You must have office skills, number one, for a position in any area of law. Number two, do research online as to what degree, if any, your state requires in order to be called a Paralegal. Regarding your other question, I do not consult with people on the phone - it would be overwhelming to do that, honestly. Thanks for asking though.
It's so wonderful to see you replying to people that commented this year even though you posted this video 7 years ago. I'll watch your other videos, you sound down to Earth, encouraging and realistic, thank you and if you have the time it might be great if you did a video on whether or not things in this field are still the same as 7 years ago when you made it or if you've seen some shifts and changes regarding anything really, like the workforce, how are they handling what seems to be in some places the push for diversity hiring and similar, I'm honestly curious, thanks again.
Plz share which University in Canada would be good for paralegal course ?
Hi Adv Prikshit - So sorry - I don't recommend specific colleges. Best wishes! - Leslie
Can i be a paralegal if my writing skills isn't excellent? And if my writing isn't excellent which field of law should i go into ?
keff op - your english, grammar & spelling skills have to be top notch. It's just what this career path requires. :) - Leslie.
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind About to graduate and im not confident in my writing skills , i feel like im only okay .. i guess i may not be able to work with my degree
Of course you will. Just improve in that area. You can do it. - Leslie :)
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind any tips on how i can get my English to become top notch ?
@@keffop803 Search for classes online. Do your homework. - Leslie :)
Hi.. Your video was really great. Well, I'm a lawyer here in India and planning to move to Canada and became a Paralegal. Will that be possible?.. I mean I have no one to guide me and I really hope you can really help me out with that.
Rakib, thanks for your question. My recommendation is that you perform research concerning what is required of Canadian Paralegals. It can be quite different from country to country.
Leslie, Thank you so much for your answer. We'll, actually I'm planning to study diploma in Paralegal and then I hope I'll be qualified to work as a Paralegal in Canada once I get my certificate. So, can you please help me out with which college and state should I look for? Also, should I opt for diploma or a degree? I mean to what I have researched diploma would be sufficient if I already have a law degree(of any country). Can you please guide me.
@@khanrakibrk Wish I could help, however, I sincerely do not recommend going the degree path to my students. Many do anyway, however, my focus is teaching people how to break in (US ONLY) without formal education.
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind.. Oh I see. Then I'll stick to my diploma course😄. Wish if someone could help me with the college and state confusion but still, you have really helped me and I sincerely want to thank you for that. Also, if you don't mind can I ask you if you are still practicing as a Paralegal or not?
Rakib khan I am also thinking same to move on Canada having the law degree in india. It will be fruit full or waste, have you got the answer that it will be a good option.
So cool
Glad you enjoyed it, Anna. Be sure to go to my website to get the 2 complimentary items there - the "19 Alternative Paralegal Careers List" & also a free chapter of my book "Legal Break-In". Just go here: www.LeslieSansoneWilliams.com
Kolbe charges for you to take the test
Akay chi Yes, they do. It's very detailed and comprehensive.
Do you know ways I can improve my writing skills
What do you think one should major in in order to become a paralegal? I'm seeing different majors but I'd like to know your opinion:)
Hi mel - do you mean what major before you enter into a paralegal course? Or...what type of law to focus on within the paralegal course?
lesliewilliams126 I'm sorry I wasn't clear enough 😭 but yes what major I should be in while taking a paralegal course, because the school I want to get into offers the course as non-credit course I believe, and I want to know what would be best to major in as I take this course
Well, one of the general areas is litigation (any type of law re preparation for trial). Bankruptcy law, for instance, ebbs and flows depending on what the economy is doing. Same issue with real estate law. However, studying Commercial or Business Law, Patent/Trademark Law, Immigration - these are all great areas and can result in trial prep. Also, a lot of depends on where your interest lies, too. That's why I suggest exploration and discovery about yourself and what would make you passionate about your work before enrolling in anything. Let me know if this helps or if I can clarify further, ok? Great question, mel.
They have 2 year paralegal programs at most community colleges
Leslie
Do you have any financial troubles with this job? Can you support a family? Thanks!
Hi Claire - Thanks for your question. Most (not all) people breaking into this field for the first time start at a lower rate of pay for the industry because they're new to the career. What that pay is, is determined by many factors - city, state, law firm or company, what type of knowledge you bring to the table, etc. Can't really give you a definitive answer on whether this salary would support a family or not because it truly depends on your standard of living, how many are in the family, etc. Very hard to answer. - Leslie
Thank you for your reply! Very Appreciated :)
Claire Alison If you want to be a paralegal, become an IP paralegal or in corporate and securities. I know IP paralegals that make at least 80k a year. Any kind of law besides that is not worth it.
Any ideas for someone who is certified with no experience? It is very difficult to find a job. :(
I do, Kristen. In my online class, "Paralegal Inner Circle Class", I teach how to review job ads properly, how to develop a cover letter that gets noticed, what attorneys really wish you knew and much more. Take a moment to check out the class on my website here www.LeslieSansoneWilliams.com/ Overall, there's nothing wrong with having an education and being certified but attorneys need someone who knows how to hit the ground running from Day 1. Even if a job ad says "Training provided", never count on that. It's rarely true. So, in my class, I give you a lot of what entry level legal assistants/paralegals need to know before the cover letter and resume are sent out. Hope this helps.
lesliewilliams126 thank you!! I will check it out :)
Kristen McCulloch
Have you found any luck, Kristen?
Should i become a paralegal? 🙈 current junior in high school and im leaning towards it
If you feel pulled to this Career, then go for it. You must have office skills. And...you don't have to go into debt to enter this career. Remember that. - Leslie :)
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind thank you sm! I also wanted to major in political science and minor in paralegal studies. Would that work for this job?
@@daisygonzalez542 Daisy - people enter this career with or without degrees. It's more about "how and what will you do to assist the attorney?" Knowing the answer to that is the most important thing. Others may tell you differently - that having degrees is of the utmost importance. Not so. - Leslie :)
@@ParalegalCareerMastermind thank you! Love your videos btw super informative