While paralegals have the potential to earn $50,000+ outside the Midwest, in this area (Omaha/Council Bluffs, Lincoln and Sioux City, NE/IA), the average paralegal salary can be lower, primarily due to the lower cost of living in this part of the United States. In the Midwest, the average annual paralegal salary ranges between $43,000+ to $48,000+, often depending on where the paralegal is employed. However, a paralegal does have the opportunity to significantly increase his/her income by obtaining certification through one of the following organizations:  National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)Links to an external site., NALS, the Association for Legal ProfessionalsLinks to an external site., and the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)Links to an external site..

That said, based on the following web site https://www.paralegal411.org/Links to an external site., “the paralegal profession is … growing. Between 2018 and 2028, the field is expected to grow by 10%, which is slightly faster than the average rate of growth for all occupations in the US.” Paralegal professions can be found in more than just law firms. This is a profession with jobs available in various corporations, government entities, real estate and/or title companies, health care and non-profit organizations. Where Do Paralegals Work? Exploring Your Options | Rasmussen UniversityLinks to an external site.

As a paralegal, an individual in this profession may be expected to assist with a wide number of duties, typically based on what type of law firm, business, or organization the individual is working at or with. Below is a list of some of the more typical duties a paralegal would be responsible for completing.

• Communicating With Clients
• Assisting with Case Prep
• Helping an attorney during trials
• Conducting legal research on laws and regulations
• Investigating case facts
• Researching and Writing
• Collecting formal statements and affidavits
• Helping draft correspondence and documents
• Organizing information and presenting
• Assisting with reports

https://fremont.edu/the-duties-of-a-paralegal/Links to an external site.

To become a paralegal there are numerous programs, certificates, and degrees (bachelor’s and master’s) offered in this field offered throughout the country. In fact, paralegal degree programs are available at more than 750 colleges and universities throughout the United States. To complete a paralegal education, students can opt for on-campus programs at traditional colleges/universities; various paralegal schools; or take classes online. 2021 Paralegal Degree Information: Online and On-Campus Degrees (paralegal411.org)Links to an external site. Classes that are necessary to successfully complete a paralegal program would include the following:

• The Paralegal Profession
• Introduction To Law
• Microsoft Word for Law and/or other technical word processing programs designed for law
• Legal Research & Writing
• Litigation
• Business Law

Paralegal students should also take classes, which focus on the various areas of law, including the following:

• Employment Law
• Criminal Law
• Family Law
• Real Estate Law
• Wills & Trusts
• Torts
• Discovery

Additionally, on-the-job experience is beneficial for those who are working on becoming a paralegal, that of which includes an internship as well as employment in a law firm and/or entity which handles legal matters.

The law field is an ever-expanding field, thus the need for paralegals will continue to grow as well. Paralegals are in need in law firms, government organizations, corporate world, as well as estate planning. While a paralegal may have initially been considered the individual who was responsible for filing paperwork or answering the phone, things have changed over the years. Today, although paralegals do not practice law, they are an essential part of a law firm’s team; and are responsible for significant amount of the work conducted within a law office

Regarding how I intend to progress in my paralegal occupation, initially I will need to complete my paralegal certificate program at Metropolitan Community College. I only have a few classes left to accomplish this task. Therefore, I am well on my way to achieving my career goals.

Currently, I am always checking the job market to see what paralegal professions are available. I am in the process of seeking a paralegal job opportunity, or at least a job within a law field, prior to completing my degree. I know I will find a job that fits my paralegal career path as well as one that will help me successfully provide for myself and my family.

https://www.thebalancecareers.com/the-8-best-things-about-being-a-paralegal-2164597Links to an external site.

https://www.allcriminaljusticeschools.com/legal-and-paralegal/paralegal-certification/Links to an external site.

https://www.paralegal411.org/careers/nebraska/Links to an external site.