A Law Career

3 Types Of Legal Careers That Don't Require A Law Degree

by Ruby Mckinney

If you have always been interested in having a legal career, but know you could never handle going to law school, there are still some options for you. Here are three types of legal careers that don't require a law degree.

Court Reporter

If you enjoy transcribing spoken words onto paper and you also have excellent writing and listening skills, becoming a court reporter would be a great career option. Not only would this type of career enable you to use your gifts, it would also allow you to play an active role in court hearings, trials, and other types of legal proceedings.

A court reporter is sometimes referred to as a court stenographer and is responsible for the following duties:

  • Compile a complete record of events that take place in the courtroom
  • Use recording equipment to capture notes and proofread transcripts
  • Maintain accurate records so that they can be accessed when needed

In order to become a court reporter, you can get the necessary schooling and training at a community college or technical institute. Most states also require you to have the proper licensing.

Paralegal

If you desire to work directly with an attorney and you are also organized and like to do research, becoming a paralegal might be a good career option. As a paralegal, you would be able to work in a variety of settings such as a law firm, the legal department for a company, or a government agency.

A paralegal is sometimes referred to as a legal assistant and is responsible for the following duties:

  • Organize files and drafting documents for lawyers
  • Help lawyers prepare for hearings, trials, and business meetings
  • Find information and put together materials that are used during legal proceedings

In order to become a paralegal, you will need to earn an associate's degree or attain a certificate in paralegal studies.

Jury Consultant

If you enjoy doing presentations and feel you have a natural instinct for understanding human behavior, you might do well as a jury consultant. As a jury consultant, you would do most of your work before the trial begins. A jury consultant is sometimes called a trial consultant and is responsible for the following duties:

  • Research the backgrounds of jurors and put together juror profiles
  • Question prospective jurors and assist with jury selection
  • Assist lawyers in identifying arguments and developing legal strategies

There is no specific degree you can obtain to become a jury consultant. Oftentimes, lawyers will hire those with an advanced degree in psychology, sociology, or criminology.

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