Chart Westcott on Legal Careers that Don't Require a Law Degree

LEGAL CAREERS THAT DON’T REQUIRE A LAW DEGREE C H A R T

W E S T C O T T

INTRODUCTION

Although a law degree is required to pursue a traditional law career as a lawyer or attorney, many people can still work in various fields related to the profession without going to law school. There are many types of jobs in law that require a different level of education.

For most people, a high school diploma or equivalent is enough to get them started.

E-DISCOVERY PROFESSIONAL The field of e-discovery has been growing significantly over the past couple of years. This involves analyzing and preserving all the documents related to a case or investigation in electronic form. These professionals help companies and individuals identify and manage the various types of information stored in this environment. Due to the increasing number of cases and the technological advancements in the field, the demand for ediscovery professionals is expected to grow significantly over the next couple of years.

TITLE EXAMINER

A title examiner is a vital part of a legal team that supports a lawyer in analyzing and preserving all the documents related to real estate transactions. This individual typically works for various companies and law firms. They usually look through private and public records to find out about property title details and perform other real estate-related tasks. Besides being able to analyze and preserve all the documents, the job also requires intense research and legal knowledge. People interested in becoming title examiners should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many companies will hire individuals with a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in this field.

PARALEGAL

A legal assistant, also called a paralegal, is a professional who helps prepare lawyers for their hearings and trials by performing various tasks. These include gathering evidence for legal proceedings and writing legal documents. People interested in becoming legal assistants should have a minimum education of paralegal studies degree. Although many law firms prefer individuals with a bachelor’s degree, some states may only require certification.

LEGAL SECRETARY The primary duties of a legal secretary are usually related to law.

Although they’re commonly referred to as legal assistants, these individuals don’t usually perform substantive legal work. The primary duties of a legal secretary are usually related to law. They help facilitate the smooth operations of a law office by performing various tasks. These include scheduling and coordinating court dates, transcribing court proceedings, and maintaining billing records. Individuals interested in becoming a legal secretary should have various education requirements depending on the employer.

Some companies will only hire individuals with a legal secretary certification or an associate degree.

MEDIATOR

Due to the increasing number of lawsuits and the need for resolution outside of the courtroom, more people are turning to mediators. Due to the growing number of cases and the lack of resolution outside of the courtroom, more people are turning to mediators. In some states, mediation is required as a first attempt at resolving certain civil cases.

LEGAL WRITER

The primary duties of a legal writer are usually related to law. They may write summaries of legal arguments or report on legal cases for publications such as magazines and newspapers. Besides solid writing skills, successful legal writers also have the necessary knowledge about terms and concepts. Although there are no specific education requirements for becoming a legal writer, most companies will only hire individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent. A bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or English is additionally preferred.

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