The role of a paralegal has been changing to include more complex responsibilities, prompting many jobseekers to enroll in further training. That was the message delivered by former legal assistant Gerard Gravellese, who explained: "It used to be that paralegals advanced inside law firms from legal secretary or other support roles - while that still happens, it's now more the exception than the rule." Indeed, the Department of Labor backs up Mr Gravellese's statement, predicting that the role will be among the fastest-growing professions in the next six years, as more tasks traditionally performed by lawyers move to paralegals. Mr Gravellese added that "employers are demanding" that paralegals be prepared to handle these responsibilities, which could require advanced training. Most people in the career have either an associate degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor's degree as well as a certificate in paralegal studies. The majority of jobs are available in law firms, though there are also opportunities in corporate legal departments and government agencies. Median salaries for the career range from $38,000 to $56,000 per year, with those working for private companies and the federal government earning the most.  |