Paralegal Studies

Offerings for Paralegal Studies:

AAS Degree	Certificate
Degrees and certificates in paralegal studies are available for students wishing to pursue a professional career as a paralegal/legal assistant. The goal of the program is to prepare students to perform effectively in a variety of legal settings and to adapt readily to changes in the legal environment. More	This certificate will help prepare students to perform effectively in a variety of legal settings and to adapt readily to changes in the legal environment. A paralegal studies certificate is intended only for students with pre-existing AA, AAS or bachelor’s degrees. More

Full Offerings Available At:	Some Courses Available At:
North Harris	LSC-Online

Salary:
Earnings of paralegals and legal assistants vary greatly. Salaries depend on education, training, experience, the type and size of employer, and the geographic location of the job. In general, paralegals who work for large law firms or in large metropolitan areas earn more than those who work for smaller firms or in less populated regions. In May 2006, full-time wage-and-salary paralegals and legal assistants had median annual earnings, including bonuses, of $43,040. The middle 50 percent earned between $33,920 and $54,690. The top 10 percent earned more than $67,540, and the bottom 10 percent earned less than $27,450. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of paralegals were:

Federal Government $56,080
Management of companies and enterprises $52,220
Local government $42,170
Legal services $41,460
State government $38,020

In addition to earning a salary, many paralegals receive bonuses, in part, to compensate them for sometimes having to work long hours. Paralegals also receive vacation, paid sick leave, a 401 savings plan, life insurance, personal paid time off, dental insurance, and reimbursement for continuing legal education.

Job Growth:
Despite projected rapid employment growth, competition for jobs is expected to continue as many people seek to go into this profession; experienced, formally trained paralegals should have the best employment opportunities.

For more information please visit our Paralegal Studies Department.

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