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27-May-09 10:00 AM CST

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Paralegal Trends Defy Unemployment Rate

Written by Tami Riggs, a Training and Career Placement Specialist. Focus is on Employment Development with specialty in paralegal and law-related professions. Tami is a speaker, event organizer, and career coordinator and has assisted hundreds of the Center's graduates in beginning their careers. 5.26.2009

Students and Graduates have Reasons to be Optimistic

Students and graduates want to know one thing: Will I find a job?

Unemployment rates are soaring. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the national unemployment rate at 8.9%. Every news medium has facts and figures to support the decline of our economy. And yet, in the midst of this unwelcome recession we continue to see trends that give our students and graduates several reasons to be optimistic.

First, the paralegal profession continues to be recognized as one of the fastest growing occupations. In many ways it is a recession-proof career. Legal demands, and in turn legal jobs, tend to increase in a diminished economy. As bankruptcies, foreclosures and lawsuits rise, so does the need for qualified paralegals. While other professions look to outsource positions, the roles of paralegals are becoming more defined and more important.

Second, law firms of all sizes are seeking more efficient and economical alternatives to hiring new associates. This trend has opened doors for paralegals who, with proper training and education, can assume the same responsibilities formerly handled by lawyers.

Third, graduates of the Center For Advanced Legal Studies leave this institution with complete and specialized training and lifetime placement assistance. The Texas Workforce Commission has documented our employment rates above 80% for four consecutive years. This is possible, in part, because we have a designated Placement Director whose primary role is to network within the legal community and maintain close contact with prospective employers.

Even in a weak market, the number of available positions has continued to rise and there remains a great demand for paralegals within the profession. This means increased opportunities and job security. While it is impossible to predict the future, it is a sure bet that our graduates will continue to be successful!