Question:
I am currently enrolled in a paralegal certificate program at an ABA
approved school. The program is supposed to take 1 year to complete
full time, and I am currently searching for and researching potential
employers. I know that internships are often the best way to enter
the field, but will I find myself jobless if I do not get that type of
experience? I am looking for any suggestions regarding my search,
whether they come from the internet or career center resources. I am
certain that there are many paralegals who have struggled in finding
the right job, and I hope that I can gain some wisdom from your advice
and past experiences.
Answer:
Sign up with a temp agency that specializes in law firms. Take whatever jobs
they assign to you, whether it is clerical, secretarial, etc. This will give
you a range of experience in different types of law firms which will not
only help you focus on what style of work environment you are most
comfortable with, but will also get you started on making contacts within
the industry. Not every law firm operates the same way. A working knowledge
of efficient law firms as well as those that do not operate efficiently is
an important skill when devising litigation strategies. Know your adversary.
