Paralegals are vital members of the legal team, but there are still many misunderstandings about this challenging and rewarding career. So, let’s clear up some of the biggest myths.

Myth #1: Paralegals are simply legal assistants or secretaries.

Reality: There is a major difference between paralegal duties and those of legal secretaries or assistants. Paralegals receive extensive training and education to take on substantive legal work like conducting research, drafting documents, managing cases and evidence, attending meetings and hearings, and much more. While administrative tasks are part of the job, paralegals have a deep legal knowledge base, and their work is highly specialized.

Myth #2: All paralegals have the same responsibilities and job duties.

Reality: a paralegal's specific role and workload can vary tremendously based on the type of legal practice, size of the firm or organization, area of specialization, level of experience, and other factors. A paralegal working in corporate law may spend most of their time on contract drafting and regulatory compliance, while one in a personal injury practice deals primarily with litigation tasks.

Myth #3: Being a paralegal is easy and doesn't require specialized skills. 

Reality: Working as a paralegal is demanding work that requires strong research, writing, computer, analytical, and organizational skills. The ability to pay extremely close attention to detail and work well under pressure is crucial. Paralegals must understand and apply complex regulations, legal terminology, procedures, and software applications. On top of the mental challenges, paralegals also need excellent interpersonal abilities to effectively communicate with clients, lawyers, and others involved in cases.

Myth #4: Technology will replace paralegals.

Reality: While technological advancements have transformed the legal industry, they have not rendered paralegals obsolete. Instead, technology has augmented the capabilities of paralegals, enabling them to work more efficiently and effectively. Paralegals leverage tools such as legal research databases, case management software, and document automation platforms to streamline their workflow and enhance productivity.

Myth #5: Paralegals don't have opportunities for career growth or advancement.

Reality: There are many potential paths for paralegals to grow their careers through gaining experience, pursuing certifications, or advanced education. Some move into supervisory roles managing other paralegals, while others transition into specialties like litigation, real estate, bankruptcy, intellectual property, and more. Motivated paralegals can also go on to law school and become practicing attorneys themselves.

Myth #6: Paralegals make very low wages with little job security.

Reality: Skilled paralegals are in high demand, earn competitive salaries, and have promising career prospects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median paralegal salary is around $60,000 per year, with the top percent earning $85-$100,000. Job openings for paralegals are projected to grow much faster than the average occupation.

The paralegal profession is challenging but also highly stimulating and rewarding. 

The YU Global Paralegal Training Certificate Program can lead right into a paralegal career because it offers both targeted education and training in the essential skills and knowledge required for paralegal work, and networking that can lead to employment opportunities, job interviews, and professional connections within the legal community.