Paralegals are a vital part of the legal system, and those in Missouri can find rewarding careers in the field. Becoming a paralegal involves taking several steps to meet the qualifications, and this guide will walk you through the process.
What Is a Paralegal in Missouri?
Paralegals are professionals who assist lawyers with research and administrative tasks. They can be found helping lawyers prepare for trials, conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, and helping manage client files. In Missouri, paralegals are not licensed or regulated, but they need to meet certain qualifications to work in the field.
What Are the Requirements to Become a Paralegal in Missouri?
The qualifications to become a paralegal in Missouri vary from employer to employer. Some employers may require a paralegal to have a college degree and/or to have completed a paralegal program. Other employers may not require a degree but may require that a paralegal have a certain amount of experience in the field.
Education Requirements
The most common educational requirement for paralegals in Missouri is to have a college degree. Many employers prefer that paralegals have a degree in a field related to paralegal studies such as law, criminal justice, or business. Other employers may accept a degree in any field as long as the paralegal has completed a paralegal program.
Paralegal Programs in Missouri
There are several paralegal programs in Missouri that can help aspiring paralegals meet the educational qualifications. These programs typically include courses in legal research and writing, legal ethics, and other topics related to the legal field. Most programs will also include an internship or practicum to give students real-world experience.
Paralegal Certification in Missouri
Paralegals in Missouri are not required to be certified, but many employers prefer to hire paralegals who are certified. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers a voluntary certification for paralegals. To be certified, paralegals must pass an exam and meet certain educational and experience requirements.
Experience Requirements
Most employers require paralegals to have some experience in the legal field. Experience can be gained through internships, volunteer work, or through working as a legal assistant. Many employers also prefer that paralegals have a background in law or a related field.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Become a Paralegal in Missouri
How much does it cost to become a paralegal in Missouri?
The cost of becoming a paralegal in Missouri will vary depending on the educational and experience requirements of the employer. The cost of tuition for a paralegal program or degree program will also vary.
Is certification required to be a paralegal in Missouri?
No, certification is not required to be a paralegal in Missouri. However, many employers prefer to hire paralegals who are certified.
What type of degree do I need to become a paralegal in Missouri?
The type of degree required to become a paralegal in Missouri will vary from employer to employer. Many employers prefer that paralegals have a degree in a field related to paralegal studies such as law, criminal justice, or business.
Do I need experience to become a paralegal in Missouri?
Yes, most employers require paralegals to have some experience in the legal field. Experience can be gained through internships, volunteer work, or through working as a legal assistant.
What is the job outlook for paralegals in Missouri?
The job outlook for paralegals in Missouri is very good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the job market for paralegals in Missouri will grow by 13% between 2018 and 2028.
Conclusion
Becoming a paralegal in Missouri requires taking several steps to meet the qualifications. Most employers require that paralegals have a college degree and/or have completed a paralegal program. Paralegals in Missouri are not required to be certified, but many employers prefer to hire paralegals who are certified. Experience in the legal field is also a requirement to become a paralegal in Missouri. The job outlook for paralegals in Missouri is very good, and those who meet the qualifications can look forward to a rewarding career in the field.
