Well-trained paralegals are pivotal in the legal field. Working side-by-side with lawyers and performing multiple duties, paralegals have a significant impact, making them indispensable in the evolving legal landscape. 

What Paralegal Professionals Do

Aside from writing reports and drafting legal documents, paralegals generally conduct research on relevant laws and regulations, gather the facts and evidence of a case and assist lawyers in preparing for hearings and trials.

They also work across many industries and can specialize in different practice areas, including criminal law, immigration, personal injury, healthcare, litigation, real estate and banking and intellectual property. As with most careers, the duties of a paralegal will vary significantly based on their specialty. For example, corporate paralegals are involved in preparing employee contracts, shareholder agreements and financial reports, and generally focus their research on government regulations and the legal requirements of corporations.

According to Paralegal EDU, paralegals often take on hybrid roles that combine traditional paralegal duties with legal assistant tasks—such as project management or administration—creating opportunities for professionals with diverse skill sets.

Core Skills for Today’s Paralegal Professionals

Employers generally look for prospective paralegals who can stay organized and communicate well with their colleagues. The work can be fast paced, so being able to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines is also key. Candidates who have strong research, database management or computer skills usually have the best job prospects. 

The advancement of technology and automation may limit growth, but it will increase demand for paralegals who are well-versed in using e-discovery platforms, legal project management tools and AI-powered research tools. 

“There are a lot of articles out there saying that AI will replace paralegals, but they absolutely will not,” said Stefanie V. Plaumann, an attorney and an instructor in UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education’s Paralegal Program. “Having someone in the office who’s comfortable with this technology and how it’s being used is a wonderful attribute to have as a paralegal and incredibly helpful to the attorney.”     

Where Paralegals Work 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the legal services industry hires 74% of all paralegals. Others work for federal, state and local governments or in the finance industry. While the legal field remains stable overall, opportunities for paralegals continue to be strong as law firms and legal departments seek skilled professionals who can help manage rising workloads, support cost-effective legal services or replace workers who transfer to other occupations or retire from the workforce. 

“It's always helpful for students and paralegals to not box themselves in with a law firm,” said Plaumann. “Take a look at all of those other legal employers who utilize paralegals.”

Certifications That Can Boost Your Paralegal Career 

As a paralegal or legal assistant, earning certifications widens your career prospects and demonstrates your proficiency. Some states require paralegals to hold certificates approved by the American Bar Association, but this is not the case in California, and graduates from non-ABA approved certificate programs have achieved strong career outcomes regardless. You can also take the paralegal certification exam offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or attend certification programs offered by universities nationwide.

Working in the legal services industry provides a strong foundation of experience and skills that can be applied across industries. Paralegals can advance to management positions or by becoming self-employed. Many also go on to become attorneys themselves after attending law school.

Preparing for Paralegal Roles Through Continuing and Professional Education 

There are several educational paths to becoming a paralegal, but according to the BLS, the most common is obtaining an associate’s degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s degree in another field combined with a certificate in paralegal studies. 

Earning an academic certificate in paralegal studies develops practical skills and opens the door to a career in the field. UC Davis CPE offers an online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program for those interested in entering the profession, in addition to over 20 online Paralegal Specialist Programs for professional paralegals who want to enhance their knowledge by specialization. 

The Paralegal Studies Certificate Program offers an unparalleled and dynamic educational experience. Delivered in partnership with the Institute of Career Development (ICD), the curriculum and highly qualified instructors are provided by ICD and vetted by the UC Davis School of Law. 

In three to six months of self-paced study, you’ll gain core skills that any law firm looks for in a paralegal, including interviewing, evidence and investigation, litigation, advocacy and motions, document preparation, file maintenance, legal correspondence, research, writing and analysis. You will have access to resources like LexisNexis and Westlaw research databases, as well as interactive study support.

Program Details

• Complete in 3-6 months
• Completely online
• $6,995
• Related article: Do Paralegals Need Degrees?