Paralegal studies is a field that takes concentration and determination. Paralegal studies at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC), within the context of liberal arts education, focuses on the study of law in its relation to politics, society and history. There is a wide variety of paths you can take. SMWC wants to ensure that current and future students know the career path they can pursue. Here are eight careers you can have with an online degree in paralegal studies.
1. Paralegal
When it comes to the field of paralegals, there are many options you have. Whether it be working in a law firm, going to law school or assisting in official documentation, this can be a versatile path. Offering professional advice will be a constant part of your routine. Being an employee in the paralegal field takes confidence and a strong work ethic. Communication is key in this career and it’s a benefit to be personable.
Job tasks can include:
- Filing documents and records
- Communicating with clients on case details
- Preparing documents for legal meetings
2. Law Enforcement Officer
Having patience is a required trait as a law enforcement officer. There may be many stressful situations in your daily routine, but it’s important to stay calm when handling them. Having a focused mindset is important, and you must pay attention to small details.
Job tasks can include:
- Giving traffic citations
- Maintaining rules and following protocol at a crime scene
- Interviewing witnesses
3. Social Worker
Being a social worker entails the need for organization and time management. You must be able to balance emotions with professionalism when dealing with tough cases. Being a positive person is a good quality to have in this profession. Focus is imperative – you must pay attention to small details for the case. Having good communication skills is key, and it’s important to also be a good listener.
Job tasks can include:
- Perform scheduled and pop-up visits to client households
- Keep a record of clients’ progress
- Offer advice to members of the household and programs to better clients’ lifestyle
4. Real Estate Agent
Being a real estate agent requires the need to have persuasive qualities and confidence. Consider asking yourself, “Why should clients trust me?” Building experience and credibility are crucial to this career. Understanding the ins and outs of real estate will only benefit you right from the start. With a strong foundation of connections and trust, you’re sure to enjoy the daily routine of meeting new people.
Job tasks can include:
- Show and discuss homes with clients
- Offer advice to small fixes in well-liked homes by clients
- Offer honest advice to clients when questions are asked
5. Probation Officer
As a probation officer, you must be driven to help clients succeed. This career requires organization and clear communication. Meeting annually with clients will be a constant part of your routine. Having patience is vital in this field as it can be a different process for each case, but the result is rewarding.
Job tasks can include:
- Record the progress of client cases
- Research clients to make sure their whole case is understood
- Arrange service for post-release of client
6. Legal Assistant
Legal assistants are responsible for helping lawyers and other legal professionals prepare for cases and trials. Communicating with clients and court employees is an everyday part of the job, so it’s important to be personable and have strong communication skills. Other skills in being detail-oriented and organized will only help in this career as you’ll file cases, fact-check and more.
Job tasks can include:
- Calling clients to gather case information
- Confirming schedules for court dates
- Completing research for case studies and files
7. Associate Attorney
As an associate attorney, you’ll assist senior partners in providing expertise and legal counsel to clients/cases when needed. Researching, drafting and filing are just a few tasks you will often do. Skills in communication and writing are vital in this career, as you must be precise in your terminology when drafting claims or other documents.
Job tasks can include:
- Reformatting case documents
- Conducting research for cases and clients
- Interviewing clients and negotiating contracts for cases
8. Commercial Solicitor
As a commercial solicitor, providing expertise on analytical reasoning to clients on different matters will be a constant part of your routine. You’ll often help direct legal relationships in the business field. In this career, it’s imperative to have project management skills, strong communication abilities and negotiating skills.
Job tasks can include:
- Representing clients during court
- Crafting and amending contracts
- Writing commercial reports
1 Comment