What is the next step to become a paralegal in criminal law?

I already possess a college degree in criminal justice. I prefer the legal aspect versus law enforcement. I am very interested in becoming a paralegal more specifically, in dealing with criminal law. I currently live in the state of Virginia. I know all states vary in certification rules. I would love to eventually find myself in this career in the state of New Jersey, so even if I have to begin in Virginia at least it's a start. Does anyone have information on this? Any serious input is greatly appreciated.

Hi,

I am in NJ, and I just started a paralegal certification program (I already have a BA). I am not yet familiar with the different areas of law, but I may be able to help you a bit.

First, there is no certification requirement here. BUT, you really should consider getting a certificate. You can do what I am, which is attending a community college. The BA was required to enroll, and they also have an Associate's program. There are several people in my class who are already working in law firms and all of them want the cert. to either move up or have more job options.

You want an ABA-approved school-really important.

The thing you should be aware of is that you have to have experience to become a paralegal, even if you have had the schooling. That is why I am trying to find an entry-level law firm job now. If I do not, I will still have an internship, which will help me get started. Every ad I see wants experience. So, you will have to start out in an entry-level job, unless you can get into a very small firm that is willing to train you. I knew this going in, but I am hopeful it will work out. There are paralegal jobs here, that is for sure. Having a college degree will put us ahead of those who do not, because the employers are starting to ask for that, as well as the cert. You want to be as marketable as possible.

I have seen quite a few ads for criminal law firms and all seem to want at least 2 years of experience. If you can find a job now, even if it is filing, that will help you.

You may want to try to find a job now and maybe start school in NJ when you get here. I am not sure it will be a big difference, as long as it is an ABA-approved school.

My school will take 2 years going pt at night. It is going to cost about 5K.

I hoped I helped a bit.

GOOD LUCK!

Warning: Jobs in the field of Law are drying up FAST!!! This is not a good field to invest in right now!!! Reasons: very bad economy, we simply have WAY TOO MANY attorneys, paralegals, other legal support professionals (look in your phone book in the Yellow section under "A"), today many people (mistakenly) think they can do their own legal work thanks to the WWWeb, we have WAY TOO MANY law schools (and this includes legal support professionals such as paralegals) churning out WAY TOO MANY graduates for today's demand and economy (but the law schools won't tell you that - law students are easy money for them).

So.....even if you do make it through school, you probably WON'T be able to find a job.

In the field of Law, "Certificates" aren't worth the paper they are printed on. Employers (law firms) want employees with Bachelors Degrees that majored in Law.

Suggestion: Go into the field of Healthcare!!! LOTS of jobs there!!! and scholarships!!!

Good luck.