Ok, so boom. Since we are basically like family, I’m going to let you on a little secret. You ready? (let’s go get um). “Paralegaling” is not easy but, it’s a rewarding career path. On extremely stressful days (and believe me there are stressful days), you will find yourself questioning every decision you’ve made in your career choice.  

Since I’ve been given the unofficial yet ordained task of keeping it real, I’m here to tell you the honest truth. Being a paralegal comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this post, we will explore the good and the bad of being a paralegal.

The Good:

1. Job Opportunities: As a paralegal, you will find job opportunities in various sectors such as law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, and non-profit organizations. The demand for paralegals is high, and the job market is expected to grow in the coming years.
2. Job Satisfaction: Paralegals play a crucial role in the legal system. They assist lawyers and help clients navigate the complexities of the legal system. This sense of purpose and contribution to society can be incredibly fulfilling.
3. Career Growth: Paralegals have various opportunities for career growth. With experience, paralegals can advance to positions such as senior paralegal, paralegal manager, and legal operations manager.
4. Work-Life Balance: Most paralegal positions offer a good work-life balance. Unlike lawyers who often work long hours, paralegals typically work regular hours with occasional overtime.
5. Salary: Paralegals earn a competitive salary, which is in line with other professional fields. I think we deserve more but hey, you ultimately decide your worth.

The Bad:

1. Stressful Work Environment: The legal industry is fast-paced, and the workload can be overwhelming at times. Paralegals are expected to work under tight deadlines and handle multiple tasks simultaneously, which can lead to stress and burnout.
2. Long Hours: Although paralegals generally have a good work-life balance, they may be required to work long hours during certain periods, such as when a trial is approaching.
3. Limited Career Advancement: While paralegals have opportunities for career growth, their career advancement options may be limited compared to those of lawyers. Paralegals may find themselves stuck in their roles without much room for upward mobility.
4. Emotional Labor: Paralegals often work with clients who are going through difficult times, such as divorce or bankruptcy. This can take an emotional toll on paralegals, who may need to provide support and empathy to their clients.
5. Lack of Recognition: Despite their crucial role in the legal system, paralegals may not receive the recognition they deserve. They often work behind the scenes and may not be acknowledged for their contributions.

Out of all of this, just know becoming or continuing to be a paralegal comes with its own set of pros and cons. Ultimately, the decision to pursue a career as a paralegal depends on your personal preferences and career goals. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, have strong organizational skills, and are passionate about the legal system, then a career as a paralegal may be a good fit for you.