Becoming a paralegal can be a rewarding career choice for those interested in the legal field. While many people think that you need a college degree to become a paralegal, the truth is that you can start your journey even while you're still in high school. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps you can take to become a paralegal in high school and the resources available to help you achieve your goals.
If you're interested in pursuing formal paralegal training, there are several options available. Here are some resources where you can find paralegal classes:
Dreambound: Dreambound is a platform that helps students find vocational training programs, including paralegal classes. It provides all the information you need to find the perfect class and start your journey towards becoming a paralegal.
Community Colleges: Many community colleges offer paralegal programs that provide the necessary knowledge and skills to enter the field.
Online Learning Platforms: There are various online learning platforms that offer paralegal courses, allowing you to study at your own pace from the comfort of your own home.
While it may be challenging to secure a job as a paralegal while still in high school, there are steps you can take to increase your chances:
Networking: Attend legal events, join professional organizations, and connect with legal professionals who can provide guidance and potential job opportunities.
Internships: Seek out internships at law firms or legal departments to gain hands-on experience and build connections in the field.
Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing any relevant coursework, projects, or volunteer work you have completed. This can help demonstrate your skills and dedication to potential employers.
Continuing Education: Consider pursuing additional certifications or specialized training to enhance your knowledge and make yourself more marketable to employers.
Becoming a paralegal in high school is not only possible but can also give you a head start in your career. By taking advantage of extracurricular activities, seeking out training programs, and gaining relevant experience, you can set yourself up for success in the legal field. Remember to utilize resources like Dreambound to help you find the right training programs and opportunities to achieve your goals.
Explore Dreambound's in-depth guides, each shedding light on the unique requirements and challenges in states across the US. For more insights, be sure to check out our other guides.
If you're exploring various professional paths, Dreambound has in-depth guides to help assist you. Explore a few of these resources below.
Alyssa Jane is part of the customer success team at Dreambound. She works with students, training providers, and employers, helping them have a smooth customer journey. She is also an ESL tutor and Licensed Psychometrician. She is fond of traveling, photography, and discovering new restaurants.
Article continues after recommendations
Before diving into the specifics, it's important to understand the role of a paralegal. Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, work alongside lawyers to support them in various tasks.
To become a paralegal, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the role and responsibilities involved. While paralegals work under the supervision of attorneys, they are not licensed to practice law. Instead, they provide valuable support and assistance to lawyers by conducting research, drafting legal documents, and managing administrative tasks.
One of the great advantages of pursuing a career as a paralegal is that a college degree is not always required. While some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree or a paralegal certificate, many entry-level positions only require a high school diploma or equivalent. This makes it possible for high school students to start their journey towards becoming a paralegal right away.
There is no specific age requirement to become a paralegal. However, it's important to note that most paralegal positions are not available to individuals under the age of 18 due to legal restrictions. Once you turn 18, you can start exploring opportunities to gain experience and build your skills in the legal field.
While still in high school, there are several extracurricular activities you can engage in to boost your journey towards becoming a paralegal:
Mock Trial: Joining your school's mock trial team can provide valuable experience and insight into the legal profession. You'll have the opportunity to practice your public speaking, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
Debate Club: Engaging in debate club activities can enhance your ability to argue persuasively and think critically. These skills are essential for a successful career as a paralegal.
Volunteer Work: Look for volunteer opportunities at local law firms, legal aid organizations, or courthouses. This will give you firsthand exposure to the legal system and allow you to network with legal professionals.
To excel as a paralegal, certain skills are essential. Here are some of the key skills that can make you stand out in the field:
Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills are crucial for effectively interacting with clients, attorneys, and other legal professionals.
Research: Paralegals are responsible for conducting thorough research on legal cases and relevant laws. Strong research skills are a must-have for this role.
Organizational: Being organized and detail-oriented is essential as paralegals often handle large volumes of documents and information.
Critical Thinking: Paralegals need to be able to analyze complex legal issues and think critically to come up with effective solutions.
Get courses selected just for you
Try our powerful search engine