Paralegals: how is the job market in the real world?
Question by -: Paralegals: how is the job market in the real world?
I’ve been reading a lot of negative experiences from paralegals out there while researching on this career. Mainly, the complaints are stress, overwork, anal bosses, employment competition. To paralegals, did you get a undergrad degree, an associate degree or a certificate? How is the job market out there and how do you like your job? What is a day like of a paralegal? Any personal experience info would be appreciated. Thanks.
Best answer:
Answer by vicseo
The opportunities for a paralegal really depends on the specialty. The most in demand paralegals are those in the litigation field; followed by corporate paralegals who are responsible for maintaining corporate records, articles of incorporation, etc. While the “least” markeable [but the "highest" paid] paralegals are in the field of intellectual property [i.e., patents, trademarks] and immigration law. In conclusion, choose your paralegal courses accordingly, with emphasis on litigation preparation [discovery], docketing/calendaring of incoming pleadings [calendaring] and trial preparation [creating Exhibit tabs, Bajii jury instructions, etc.]. The “pro” side of a litigation paralegal is often “unlimited” overtime which can amount to a high salary range of $ 65,000 to $ 75,000 per year, while the “downside,” being constantly pressured to meet a monthly client billable quota. And failing to meet that quota, often results in the paralegal’s overnight dismissal. It’s not a pretty picture. I just want to lay out what really happens in the real world of litigators and their relationship with subordinate paralegals.
Good luck!
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