How to become a paralegal
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could study for a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in law, legal studies or paralegal practice.
There's a lot of competition for places on law degrees, so you'll need good grades in your entry qualifications.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could take a college course before you look for work. Courses include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Legal Studies
- CILEx Level 3 Certificate in Law and Practice
- NALP Level 3 Diploma in Paralegal Practice
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could take a paralegal advanced apprenticeship.
This typically takes 24 months to complete as a mix of workplace learning and study.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
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Work
You may be able to find work with a legal practice as an admin assistant and do training on the job to qualify. This could be done through the Institute of Paralegals or the National Association of Licenced Paralegals
You'll be expected to have GCSEs or A levels and a good standard of English.
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Career tips
Getting some experience in the particular area of law you want to work in is helpful, for example, family, criminal or property law.
As well as opportunities with law firms, look out for placements in legal departments of businesses, charities, central and local government.
Further information
You can find out more about paralegal careers from the Institute of Paralegals and the National Association of Licenced Paralegals.