Paralegals: The Future of the Profession
Most Paralegals and Legal Assistants have an associate’s degree or a certificate in paralegal studies
Current State of Paralegals and Legal Assistants
279,500 – The amount of working Paralegals in 2014
2014 Paralegal Median Pay by Industry:
Federal government
$63,420
Finance and insurance
$57,250
Local government, excluding education and hospitals
$49,320
Legal services
$46,280
State government, excluding education and hospitals
$44,340
Job Growth: 8% (Average)
Comparison to Similar Jobs
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians
328,200 – The amount of working Medical Technicians in 2014
2014 Median Pay: $49,310 per year
Job Growth: 16% (Much faster than average)
Dental and Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians and Medical Appliance Technicians
83,500: The amount of working Dental Technicians in 2014
2014 Median Pay: $33,430 per year
Job Growth: 10% (Faster than average)
Lawyers
778,700: Number of Jobs 2014
2014 Median Pay: $114,970 per year
Job Growth: 6% (Average)
Future of the Paralegal Profession
300,800 – Predicted working Paralegals in 2024
That’s 21,300 new jobs!
Is it worth it? You decide
Current College Costs
Pros and Cons of Becoming a Paralegal
Pros:
Different types of paralegal specialties
Work opportunities are endless since the areas of expertise are so specific.
Ease of Entry (There is a way to get started without investing a lot of money in starting the career).
The certificate takes about 6 to 9 months and is relatively inexpensive.
Job Stability (Attorneys will always need help)
Expanding Field (respect is growing)
Cons:
Demanding: much work, little recognition
Stressful: Especially true if you work in a busy law firm
Long Work Hours
Tedious Work
Job Advancement: little chance
On the other hand
Job growth is important when considering a future career. and 8% is nothing to scoff at.
As there are lawyers, Paralegals, and Legal Assistants will have jobs.
Related Rankings:
Top 25 Best Value Online Paralegal Certificates
Top 25 Most Affordable Online Paralegal Associate’s Degree Programs
Top Online Bachelor’s in Paralegal Degree Programs
