Should You Become a Paralegal or a Lawyer?

15 Key Considerations on Choosing a Career Path

Trying to choose between a career as a paralegal and a career as a lawyer? Both are respectable career options and each position has its own pros and cons. Below are fifteen key considerations to choose the best career path for you.

Years of Training

Paralegals can enter market with as little as 3 months training, although some firms require a paralegal certifications or certificates, which can take up to two years to complete.

These are often offered as Associate degree programs. Lawyers, on the other hand, must complete a minimum of seven years post-high school education, which includes a Bachelor’s degree and a JD.

Entrance Exam

No paralegal school entrance exam is required, although standardized test scores may be required to enter an Associate degree program. High LSAT scores are necessary for law school admission, especially if you are trying to go to a top tier law school.

Monetary Commitment

More often than not, becoming a paralegal will not involve accruing a large amount of debt. Law school debt, unfortunately, may exceed six figures for many people.

Post-Education Exam

There is no exam required to enter the paralegal field, although some states may require a certificate. Successful passage of a state bar exam is required to become a practicing attorney.

Career Advancement

For a paralegal, there is a limited career path and few advancement opportunities.

Lawyers, however, have a broad career path and many advancement opportunities.

Required Supervision

Paralegals cannot practice law—they must always be supervised by attorneys. Lawyers can practice law and operate autonomously.