Are you interested in legal work but don’t want to attend University for 6 to 8 years to become a lawyer? The good news is that you have options. Becoming a legal assistant or paralegal is a great way to study the law, help others in the community, and advance your knowledge in legal matters. It’s a win-win! So, what is the difference between the roles of legal assistant and paralegal?
What is the Difference Between Legal Assistant and Paralegal?
The legal assistant and paralegal need a strong knowledge of legal terminology and procedure. Plus, they must be able to speak with clients, witnesses, experts, judges, and opposing attorneys. However, in many legal circles, these two monikers are used interchangeably. The main differences between the two roles are education and the philosophical approach to work. The differences include:
Educational Program
There are different educational programs for each role. Gwinnett College offers a Paralegal Studies program for those who want to become paralegals in the legal field. The diploma program is more suitable for legal assistants that want to learn the terminology and procedure that they will be responsible for on the job. On the other hand, the associate degree is a stepping stone for paralegals to learn the ropes of the role and prepare for an entry-level paralegal job at a la firm.
It is also worth noting that Universities may use the term Legal Studies instead. Many legal studies programs at higher education institutions are geared toward preparing students for pre-law programs. Although a student can complete a paralegal program and then decide to start a pre-law program at a University, the legal studies graduate may have completed some prerequisites that apply to the pre-law program.
Philosophical Approach
The legal assistant role may be just that, assisting the legal team and completing what they are tasked by the legal team to do. This includes administrative tasks and other assistance to the lawyer or legal team. The paralegal has a unique role within a law firm. They are typically responsible for the legal aspects of the job. Still, in a small law firm, they may need to complete administrative tasks like answering phones and scheduling client appointments. However, paralegals are an integral part of the legal team and are responsible for many of the functions that entry-level lawyers have previously been responsible for. This allows the legal team to focus more on the client while the paralegal completes much of the trial or case preparation.
How Do You Become a Paralegal?
A great way to build a solid foundation that you can build upon as a paralegal is by attending a vocational school like Gwinnett College. We offer both a diploma and Associate Degree program. Graduates from these programs learn the technical and computer skills to assist law firms in managing cases of personal injury, criminal law, intellectual property, bankruptcy, immigration, family law, and real estate. With this knowledge, paralegals and legal assistants will join a legal team dedicated to their clients while enjoying a rewarding and challenging career in law.
Do I Need a Certification to Become a Legal Assistant or Paralegal?
While there aren’t mandatory requirements for certification to work as a paralegal, it can be helpful. Certifications like the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) are voluntary, but some employers may require certification before hiring you. They want to ensure you show a keen interest in the law and intend to stay in the field for many years. That way, they can invest in your training and feel like you will give back to the law firm during your career. Plus, certification can help you advance your career.
Paralegal Studies Program
Ready to start a new career as a paralegal? Our Lilburn, Marietta, and Raleigh campuses offer the following degree and diploma training programs in paralegal studies and legal assisting. Graduates from these Paralegal Studies Degree and Diploma Programs learn the technical and computer skills to assist law firms in managing cases in personal injury, criminal law, intellectual property, bankruptcy, immigration, family law and real estate. With this knowledge paralegals and legal assistants will join a legal team dedicated to their clients, while enjoying a rewarding and challenging career in law. These paralegal courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.
Contact Gwinnett Colleges & Institute today to learn more about becoming a paralegal.