Who Can Be A Paralegal?

Who can be a paralegal? Being a paralegal is not as easy as some may think. It takes a lot of time, planning and dedication. From the beginning to looking for the job down to when you get the job, being a paralegal takes a lot of your mind-power. Being a paralegal demands that you perform many legal functions. As such, there is a lot about your character and person that will determine if you can become a paralegal.

Who can be a Paralegal?

You might be wondering who can become a paralegal? Any responsible individual without any criminal history can be a paralegal. That being said, the following factors plays an important role in becoming a paralegal.

Age

You can only become a paralegal after you hit the age of 18, and in some province, you have to be above the age of 18. You are bound to be dealing with a lot of legal work and as such, you need to be liable for all your deeds and misdeeds.

Training

By definition, a paralegal is someone with a legal background or training whether through experience or academic training who takes up to roles that are given to them by their superior attorneys.

As such, you must have some legal training to become a paralegal. Some province demand that you have some background or history in law before being endorsed as a paralegal. This gives you a grounding to understand what to do and what not to do.

Residency

This may not be a requirement but it boards well with you if you have been in a country for a specific period before you can become a paralegal in the same country. You need to be able to prove that you have been a resident of the country before you can be certified to become a paralegal. The law will demand you perform legal tasks that should be performed by someone who understands their law.

Character

Being a legal role, you must have a clean criminal record. No employer will hire you if you have a criminal record to perform legal duties. You, therefore, need to be legally clean before attempting to apply to being a paralegal.

Education

Some institutions require that you must have graduated from a college or university in other to be eligible for the paralegal course.

What else you should know

Besides understanding the requirements to becoming a paralegal, there are other factors you should consider:

• The pay: this is highly determined by your level of education and experience as well as the location and the employer who hires you. The average pay for a paralegal, however, is currently at $51,000 per year
  
• The duties expected: there is a wide list of duties you will need to perform as a paralegal. You must understand certain legal regulations need these roles before taking up the role. Look at Services that paralegals offer for more information on this
  
• The rules that govern paralegals: there are certain things that you cannot do while performing your role as a paralegal. These may be spelt out by your senior attorney during onboarding and orientation. Stick to these rules like the gospel! Visit ISO to learn more about the rules.

Now you have an idea who can be a paralegal? As you have seen, being a paralegal is not easy. However, once you start, you will start reaping the benefits and in time, you can rise to managerial positions and the prestige that comes with the position. 

If you are interested in working as a freelance paralegal, Process Server Toronto PST is lookin for paralegals to take on paralegal services.

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