How I secured a paralegal role with no previous paralegal experience | The legal diaries

Securing a paralegal role can be somewhat frustrating, especially when you have no prior experience. Join me as I reflect on how I became a paralegal and share what worked for me.
Looking for law jobs, law graduate jobs or paralegal jobs?
www.lawcareers....
Find out more:
www.lawcareers....
Want to create an account to receive the latest news in your inbox, write private notes, save the content you love and keep track of your favourite firms, chambers and deadlines? Sign up to a FREE MyLCN account today: ow.ly/IrUn30siZuV

[@glennncocoa5680]

I just very recently got hired as a paralegal with zero experience, and honestly, I was not going to go to the interview, because I thought it would be a waste of my time considering I have no experience, nor a bachelors degree (yet). But my boyfriend convinced me, and some way some how, they loved me at the office, and they want me to be apart of their team. I have no idea what i'm getting myself into, besides from all the research i've been doing. But, I feel passionate about my position already and I haven't even started. I have a feeling this will be the reason I end up going to law school as well.

[@ENH411]

How’s it going so far?

[@Denise99881]

How much are you making?

[@vesnaaaaah]

What roles/tasks are you doing when you are a paralegal?

[@glennncocoa5680]

So far, its going really well. It's been almost 2 months now. In the very beginning, learning all the information was extremely overwhelming. And I felt like I would never get the process. But, after 2 weeks in, everything started to make more and more sense. now that I'm almost 2 months in, I really feel like I know what I'm doing. I still ask a lot of questions. But, that's the only way you'll really learn. I remember I was like a ping pong ball my first week. back and forth with the questions. but I'm glad that they were willing to teach me from scratch. I feel confident with my job, and speaking with clients. I'm not sure how they do it at different law firms, but at my firm, we meet with clients, along with the attorney. We pretty much do most of the work for the attorneys (ofcourse). The only thing the attorney does is show up to their hearing, or meet with clients when they need legal advice. We deal with bankruptcy. when originally meeting with clients, they explain to us why they want to file, how much debt they owe, etc etc, all that jazz. and we help them figure out the best way to handle their debt, based on the information that is given to us,. When deciding that they want to file, we help them stay on top of things, for both the clients and attorneys, because any small thing could dismiss their case, and it can fall back on us. We stay organized with all their files through the database that we use. And make sure they're prepared for their hearings.

[@vesnaaaaah]

Glennncocoa thank u love u 😘😚

[@jnejdl95]

I’m coming from retail to paralegal, I’m going to binge watch your channel to prep for an interview!

[@amazingchelseaful]

I got my paralegal job through connections from people i knew who knew lawyers that needed paralegals! Did interviews and got hired! Being a paralegal is hard and most firms won’t pay you enough for the amount of work you do! Getting a license can help increase the pay or even a degree but without a license you won’t get paid as much!

[@worriedtabby3112]

What kind of license ?

[@amazingchelseaful]

@@worriedtabby3112 a paralegal license! you have to go to school for it! you can also do a certificate but you wont get paid as much!

[@worriedtabby3112]

Chelsea Romero thanks girl

[@worriedtabby3112]

@Cameryn Marrow thanks for the information! will be noted

[@petitparis9836]

i was informed the lawyers have a specific way to file their corporate documents which are needed every time the company structure evolves or change : do you know or can you share the specify of their filing system please .? my niece is looking into jobs as paralegal and am helping her out

[@vankai6817]

If it says “1 year experience” then DO IT. Every time I’ve applied to positions that don’t require college, even ones that would pay me 14 an hour in Texas which is pretty good without college, they would want experience but if you can really sale yourself and be honest and cool but most of all REALLY show you’re very willing and ready to learn everything no matter how tough.

[@bhinderbinder]

Thanks for your words of encouragement! I'm of the same mind. If I really want a job, know in my heart that I do, there's no stopping me. If one organization doesn't want me, I have faith that another one, will.

[@evd6798]

I got certified through Sebron University You don't make a whole lot, but it's better than minimum wage. I started off at $18/hr, now make $22/hr. I am in Michigan.

[@danieldiaz-lebrun4956]

That's not too bad. How is the cost of living in Michigan?

[@tiarab6655]

And that’s with a certificate so imagine if u got a degree that’s where all the good firms will be at

[@JojoChan320]

it has been 4 years since this video posted and now I am actually trying to enter the legal career, hopefully it would turn out alright during job hunting after my completion of the paralegal diploma programme

[@LawCareersNet]

Hi Jojo! Good luck, you've got this! By the way, we have a paralegal page on our website here, packed with information:www.lawcareers.net/MoreLaw/Paralegals

[@johnparsons6231]

Obviously an intelligent and influential personality. I would support the narrative involving concise points with short testimonies. Fact based real-life analysis is difficult to come by. THANK YOU for taking he time to help others.

[@ashleycarriger6400]

Bilingual will be your cutting edge (if you are). Realistically everywhere you live needs bilingual people.

[@ArabellaCharm]

I've been looking for a job in the field for 9 months now. I finally got a call for a receptionist in a law firm that only pays $11 an hour, I can't afford to lose that much hourly. I have maintained my job while looking, but I'm starting to think, this degree was a waste of 25k!

[@allisonb.8492]

I have 16 years paralegal exp and have been looking for 14 months for a paralegal job!! Blows my mind!!!!

[@MsWatergryphon]

HR just sucks. They don't even understand the job. I'm applying to law firms directly and reaching out to the hiring manager on linkedin or facebook.

[@hourglas39]

I agree, The state of California paid my tuition but the attorneys here in California only offer $9.00 an hour, and that is Big cute from making $20 an hour at my last job so I have my paralegal certification license framed and just took a job as a document auditor at mortgage company that only pays $16 an hour and no yearly raises.

[@michaelhorner795]

The pay is low. I wouldn't recommend the field to anyone unless they understood that even though it's a important position, you won't make much. Many paralegal positions don't pay more than a security officer pay. I've learned that paralegal programs aren't completely honest when it comes to what you might be paid.

[@chelaparker8119]

Thanks for saying this. I have a Associate's in Business and was thinking of getting a paralegal certificate. But I'm also second guessing

[@KessO2424]

I live in PA. I have my AA and BA in paralegal studies. As while as a paralegal training certificate. Worked in private and corporate firms as an assistant or clerk for over 5 years. My issue is transitioning from the role of an assistant to a paralegal. Hiring agencies have been limiting me to legal assistant positions and I’m tired of it. Because of this I spent a year just self teaching. Provided freelance assistance with the IP industry in order to build my credibility. The only email offers I am receiving are for administrative positions. Honestly, this process is draining. And this pandemic is not making it any easier. I’ll attempt to be more intentional with my job selections. Hopefully, that will make a difference.

[@elyssabarajas3554]

The firm I work at in CA, most of our paralegals work remotely and out of state. That could be an option for you. With so much legal assistant experience and your certificate, places will be dying to have you

[@RodesLaw]

I am a poli sci manager but a hiring agency that works with a big law firm just contacted me to set up an interview because the recruiter was impressed with how good my resume was and my academic background. I though all recruiters were scammers or ineffective but I might have to change my mind. Cheers !

[@sequoiasimpson3532]

I was also going to do it by getting an associates in paralegal studies at an community college

[@tressyaustin5205]

I have a paralegal certification and I've been looking for work since I've graduated in 2017 and haven't got a job yet. Right now, I am a legal intern at community lawyers, inc. A legal aid office in Compton and went as my own because I've done it before at another school right before Fremont College and wasn't prepared for any paralegal positions

[@NotoriousKym]

Ever thought of going in as a Secretary?. brush up on the secretary skills here www.getlittrainingsf.com

[@QueenRissa_34]

Tee S In the time that you have been working for Legal Aid, they never hired you? That’s shocking! What school do you go to to get your certification? Are you sure it was ABA approved?

[@frenchieconn1082]

I was just talking to a mentor at Fremont college and wanted to get my paralegal certificate is it ABA certified?

[@Chrystalxlopez]

I'm trying to get a legal intern position was that difficult? I'm in undergrad currently with a hospitality work experience so I'm wondering how to make my resume standout.

[@melindasaldivar1712]

I just graduated from a 2 year associates degree + paralegal certificate program. I've been interview at various firms. The spectrum of positions and pay is WILD. If you have no experience, you will get paid peanuts. Work your way up

[@LawCareersNet]

Hey Melinda, well done and thanks for sharing!

[@sunleo6161]

I did the same but I had reception/admin assistant and manager experience and 3 years of pre law & CJ classes.

[@faisalmemon4491]

So in other words, she was lucky!

[@kingznqueenztv]

No such thing as LUCK... SHE IS FAVORED❤️❤️❤️

[@marievoltaire580]

@@kingznqueenztv exactly, God says she can handle it

[@ruppelspoopels]

And crazy hot. I'd hire to sit around my business.

[@photoshootimagetvstudio8044]

Right

[@mclaclan]

Thats what im gathering with most of these videos. 1.Be fairly attractive Lady 2.Apply 3.Get Lucky and get hired 4.Profit??

[@lulusplannerlifegmz1202]

Im tired of low paying jobs. considering trying paralegal or legal secretary job. But do you recommend i get certified. And go school or take chance. I have certification for Medical Office Specialist. Thank you for sharing.

[@baby16gurl9]

LulusPlannerlife Gmz As a legal assistant and a college graduate, I would advise that you go to school and work as a secretary or someone that collects medical records, at the same time. I graduated four years go with a Political Science degree. I went out into the working paralegal/legal assistant thinking jobs and money would fall into my lap. Be aware that you should not have high expectations like I did. With that said, find a job who is willing to train you. And you will start at the bottom with no experience. But at least you have a job. A pay check may be satisfying but that’s temporary. A promotion and a degree is one thAt you earned by yourself. So it’s more of a permanent satisfaction. Good luck

[@faisalmemon4491]

LulusPlannerlife Gmz: I agree with you. Unfortunately, law firms have become the lowest common denominator for salaries. I finished law school four years ago and the paralegal jobs were offering £14,000. I left law and got a job in a call centre in finance and got a pay rise. Unfortunately, law firms still pay a pittance.

[@TopChef190]

Absolutely. What you need is a paralegal degree, whether it's an AA or BA in paralegal studies. That can make a difference in thousands of dollars per year. Furthermore, if you concentrate on a specialty, like real estate, you can make a lot of money. I have been a paralegal for over 10 years, started out with on the job experience. I moved up quickly, but I was severely under paid until I received my ABA approved AA in paralegal studies. Good luck and never , ever take any short cuts.

[@newingvaeona8907]

TopChef190 firms no longer seek paralegal certificates

[@TopChef190]

Angloshevism Ingvaeona, I was actually referring to a degree. However, you are absolutely correct, not all firms require a degree or certificate, but the good firms do. Ultimately, that's where you should want to be. Also, the paralegal county jobs which require less, if any, experience do require a paralegal certificates or degrees. Furthermore, on the job learning will lead to serious mistakes that can end up costing the firms a lot of money, if not the case itself. Education is essential in all fields, and when dealing with the law you must be accurate remember you are dealing with serious issues. Good luck.

[@MiLlamoName]

My cousin is an attorney and I have no experience in the field. She posted my resume and I have two interviews today! Thank you for the advice.

[@bianca3310bee]

Where did she post it?

[@MiLlamoName]

Bianca Delarosa I believe she posted it at the court house and also sent it to some people who needed to hire. I now work in real estate law and I have a side job in family law. It’s awesome I’d definitely recommend reaching out to people you know in the field!

[@marievoltaire580]

@@MiLlamoName your bless. Your cousin is so cool. many people don't have that

[@marievoltaire580]

@@bianca3310bee sometimes its who you know

[@MiLlamoName]

Marie Voltaire definitely who you know. I did not make much $ being a paralegal but it was great experience. I work as an IT asset management specialist now. Basically read over contracts and make 6 figures, I knew someone who worked at this new job. And I’m only 23. Always make good connections !! Never leave a job on a bad note

[@jkim6448]

Thank you for sharing. I’m a univ student and I want to be a paralegal. And I want to ask something. I’m studying legal subjects in school but I don’t know what should I take for. To be a paralegal, which subject is most required or just should I pick ones that I like ? I really have no idea. Thank you for helping. I subscribed 😁

[@vankai6817]

If you think it can help you become a paralegal then DO IT.

[@jim_dog]

Maybe at a smaller firm yes. But at any reputable firm it is certainly going to be an uphill battle to get hired without previous legal experience.

[@kelvinjackson3819]

I agree

[@robinniedhardt1859]

Beforr watching this I cold called at least 10 firms nonstop with nothing.

[@VoxYohannah]

What were the skills they are looking for for this paralegal secretary position?

[@aaa45028]

Assistance position s are well paid 30-59$ an hour in Australia. Alot of jobs for assistant type position s. But stress tax and long hours long commute. 3 hour daily commute is normal. Two hours over time is normal. Very high stress and tax is very normal. I hope I like it!

[@lunnaramos8325]

I go to law school in Brazil but considering going to america and take paralegal course to become a paralegal. since a paralegal makes more money than a avarage Brazilian lawyer. do someone think its worthy? what courses I can take to be a paralegal and can I do it being a foreign?

[@khanyisaholford5414]

Can we connect. I’d like to ask you a couple of questions about your legal persuit abroad since you made this comment. [e-mail]

[@lunnaramos8325]

@@khanyisaholford5414 i’ll contact you later

[@khanyisaholford5414]

@@lunnaramos8325 thank you

[@syedinayathulla4951]

Is it possible to be a paralegal with a bachelors degree in engineering and an associates degree in paralegal

[@nadirrabah6756]

1:16 "my lovely (dang) Paralegal Studies degree" tell them. "Obtaining it was a huge experience for me" (you gotta start somewhere)

[@rufusmooreiii2567]

Would you advise the previous work experience route before going to law school? Do you feel that these roles have helped you in your daily work where you are now?

[@MiaMixx]

Where the heck have you been ?!!!

[@shadowknows5750]

It's a difficult position to get as there's so many applicants, luck comes into play as well. I've hired many assistants over the years. Schooling is great as the higher education always helps. It wont get you a legal assistant position as experience helps. Hang out in court - get a feel for it - rarely does any applicant do that. I was so naive and clueless. It's a position most come into believing television shows. Sadly now I'm stuck with millennials, laziest people ever. I've changed my interviewing strategy. Question #4 is always "Can you make toast?" The confusion in there face is priceless. Then I move onto the next applicant.

[@mxdtv3634]

Interesting. I find paralegal work in general fascinating. I'm 22 and didn't know what I wanted to do but now I'm gathering as many free resources that I can in my city to learn more. So would you say a paralegal certificate from an ABA accredited school plus some actual experience (volunteer or paid) would make you a good enough candidate?

[@shadowknows5750]

Hi Mxd - what type of law were you interested in?

[@crazykaitlyn]

TV omg I'm 22 and am in the exact same headspace as you! 😊

[@bhinderbinder]

I'm real torn about paralegalism. The detail orientation of the job really attracts me. I'm a big picture person, I think it would be gratifying to assist an attorney in making stuff happen. On the other hand, I'm actually not a real business-type person. Ya know the Meyers-Briggs Personality Type stuff? I'm an INFP. By all indications, I should NOT go into this field, as it seems to be rule-laden and conservative. However, I may be wrong. I'm not interested in corporate law, that much I can tell you. But I feel that as an older person, already have a BA in History, and real-world experience in customer service, etc., would make me an ideal candidate for an attorney needing a competent assistant.

[@alejandralemus5497]

I have an interview for legal secretary this Monday . I have zero experience . Any tips 🤦🏼‍♀️?

[@vosharap]

Great video!

[@ellexx3231]

I have just got an interview for a legal secretary role and I only done 1 year of studies I didn’t finish 😬 any tips pleaseee 💗

[@LawCareersNet]

Hey there! Well done on the interview, how did it go?

[@MsHope-dx3qh]

I wanted to know after going to school for paralegal studies associates....did you further your education with a business bachelors or what?

[@QueenRissa_34]

Christina Golden It depends! I’m getting my Paralegal certification right now & my school requires that you have at least an AA degree or BA degree of some kind?! So, I don’t know if you would need more education, unless your considering law school?!

[@ericamcleod1112]

I have the experience but it's been a while since I have done it and it's the lack of recent experience that hurts me.

[@itsmeAshley84]

1000th subbie😀great information

[@atosabused.atoskillers2654]

amazing video many thanks for sharing your experience. Thank You……

[@aaa45028]

I just enrollment in two yr. Paralegal study at a good school. Am nervous about getting a job as they all required experience.

[@adventuresofhootandwootthe287]

I was too when I went. I am finishing my 4yr degree and just now getting my internship. It was hard as all get up! But apply to every opportunity even those who want 5yr expierence. Just dont five up.

[@fisforfun6785]

I have interview coming up for legal assistant I have no experience but I would love to learn about this is very Interesting .I lam glad I found this video.

[@caroqp]

Really sorry, but the title of the video does not reflect the content, or provides advice

[@NotoriousKym]

Ever thought of going in as a Secretary?. brush up on the secretary skills here www.getlittrainingsf.com

[@mannonmberio3011]

Is it necessary to study OISC LEVEL 1 if none experience in this field? Does it help to find a job?

[@LawCareersNet]

Hey Mannon! I don't believe it's necessary to have the OISC LEVEL1 to venture into the legal profession. I think this might only have an impact if you're interested in immigration law.

[@SuperiourFN]

Paralegals get paid to much

[@GeorgieSoldado]

Can I apply with a pre-law certificate?

[@JWB19]

Not worth going into debt for as I painfully realized.

[@NotoriousKym]

Ever thought of going in as a Secretary?. brush up on the secretary skills here www.getlittrainingsf.com

[@moonshine3657]

paralegals are like secretaries for the attorney

[@mokhot]

What is salary for a paralegal

[@QueenRissa_34]

Mo naz It depends on where you live! California pays way more than other states! Just do your research

[@aoletsgo_]

What is your typing speed?

[@TheEllakes]

I’ve been so depressed because i have not found a job and nobody calls me back on my applications

[@LawCareersNet]

Hey there! Applying for a legal job is very stressful, please don't be too harsh on yourself; not hearing back from applications can be for a host of reasons and sometimes depends on the state of the economy. If you're at university, please reach out to your careers adviser for emotional and practical support.

[@aman174]

Do you have to go to university?

[@Jessicabognarbeauty]

Aman kx nope

[@7thqueenofmars299]

so you didn't take the exam?

[@hockeyslade]

Looking hot af helps. Dont kid ppl.

[@sandeephansdak1749]

... What?!...is that?!.....

[@georginadeen203]

This has come at the perfect time as I am searching for a paralegal job but am finding it v hard, would you say its easier to go for roles that are in areas of law I studied at university? thank you for sharing what helped you it makes me hopeful

[@XxLilLAyLAyxX]

Did you find a job do you recommend this field

[@ransomron8602]

I can listen to you talk all day. What's the origin of your accent?

[@juliannaokike31]

Although that is not her government name.

[@rebeccaquedou350]

well then you can't be in United States. I'm hitting paralegal sites on KZbin and on online myself, because I can't find a lawyer, and it is so complicated and so important to follow particular rules of procedure. I just can't imagine somebody like you, I mean that would be a total disservice having you touch anything paralegal you think a judge is going to let somebody fix an error that was made once it presented in court?, YOU leave out something and those people are screwed. and I believe you owe a special burden of responsibility so I do think that you could be taken to court and the owner of the business. I'm just saying that really is not a good thing!.. if you're recommending other people to do what you're doing..

[@msactress5320]

This was the worst job of my life...

[@fostemail8772]

Ms Actress What did you not like?

[@juliannaokike31]

Rip. To Cassandra

[@JC-vd3qt]

Julianna Okike Are you talking about the presenter? Are you serious? Did she have more videos?

[@juliannaokike31]

Remember that there was a young lady that I went to college with whose boyfriend physically killed her and she happened to be a paralegal. We call her pink.

[@Helljumper7200]

Talk with a British accent. That's how you got it lol

[@commonsense9474]

Gerard what is that supposed to mean? She is practicing law in England with English qualifications so what is wrong with having a British accent? Plus there are many other accents in the profession.

[@mb5857]

.....I think they meant it as a compliment..

[@user-pl5nu6vn7c]

She is not American she is in the UK. Speaking with a British accent in the UK is no different then an American speaking with an American accent in America. Her qualifications and skills is what got her the job

[@juliannaokike31]

He shot her allegedly....

[@JC-vd3qt]

Julianna Okike Who shot who?