Posts Tagged ‘education’
Is a paralegal and a legal assistant the same thing as far as education and ability to charge?
Question by compu illiterate: Is a paralegal and a legal assistant the same thing as far as education and ability to charge?
My legal papers say that the law office secretary is a paralegal. I paid $ 115.00/ hour for a paralegal. Then I found out she does not have a certificate as a paralegal, but is a legal assistant. Is that the same thing?
Best answer:
Answer by grannynightgown
It is possible for someone to get a paralegal certificate, but it is not necessary to be considered a paralegal.
“Paralegal” is simply a job title, not a qualification.
Likewise, “legal assistant” is also only a job title. And a legal assistant may hold a paralegal certificate.
The terms generally refer to the same type of job. (Someone who assists lawyers with work that requires some legal knowledge.)
This legal knowledge may be gained through education, experience, or on-the-job training.
What do you think? Answer below!
How does the education paralegals receive differ that of law students?
Question by Saria A: How does the education paralegals receive differ that of law students?
I’m in law school and asked a friend in a paralegal program this question. She said that the two were essentially the same.
I’m especially interested in hearing from lawyers who also had some training as paralegals, but anyone with knowledge in this area is welcome to chime in.
Best answer:
Answer by peekaboo
Although there is a lot of overlap, paralegal courses are a lot shorter and less intense than a law degree.
They will ultimately not be allowed to do some of the things regular lawyers do, eg. argue in court or sign legal documents.
They also usually get paid less. 
Add your own answer in the comments!