Is being a paralegal a good career?

• Minimal education requirements. You only need a two-year associate's degree in paralegal studies or a related field to start your career.

  In many cases, you do not even need to become certified to start your career as a paralegal. However, some employers do prefer paralegals with certification.

  Even if you choose to get certified, education and certification take less than three years and cost significantly less than most four-year degree programs.

• Many job opportunities. You can work at many legal organizations when you are a paralegal.

  Private law firms and corporations are two of the most common places for a paralegal to work. And just with these two options alone, you are looking at many job opportunities.

  Other places paralegals work include non-profits, real estate companies, advocacy groups, banks, courts, and federal and local government agencies.

• Compensation. Considering the minimum education requirements, paralegals are compensated well.

More than half of currently working paralegals earn an annual salary of over $51,740. And if you stick with this career, you could earn up to $82,500 or more after a long tenure.

You can also advance your career by eventually returning to school and obtaining a Master of Legal Studies degree, which will open you up to even higher paying salaries.

• Networking opportunities. As a paralegal, you come into contact with all types of professionals, not just those in the legal field.

While networking with law-related professionals can help advance your career as a paralegal, professionals outside of this field allow you to pivot in your career choice.