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How to become a paralegal without a degree

By Zippia Team - Nov. 15, 2022

You become a paralegal without a degree by starting as a clerk or assistant in a law office and getting promoted. Most states do not have a legal requirement governing who can work as a paralegal. However, most law offices prefer a paralegal with some post-secondary education.

California is one of the few exceptions to this rule. In the state of California, paralegals are required to have college credit hours in paralegal studies and a bachelor's degree or paralegal certification for licensure.

While not required, it is ultimately better for an aspiring paralegal to complete some college education. The most common approaches are to get an associate's degree in paralegal studies or to earn a paralegal certificate with a bachelor's degree in another subject (e.g, criminal justice).

Obtaining a degree from a paralegal-approved program is ideal as these programs are viewed with more prestige by employers and professional organizations. Having a formal education will also make paralegals more likely to succeed in their jobs as they have been trained in key legal topics and procedures.

How to become a paralegal without a degree

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