Paralegal Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Becoming a Paralegal in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Are you considering a career as a paralegal in Virginia Beach, Virginia? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a paralegal, including education paths, certification options, and local employment opportunities. Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, play a crucial role in the legal field by supporting attorneys with research, documentation, and case management. There are various educational paths to becoming a paralegal, including associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and certificate programs.
About Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a coastal city in southeastern Virginia, known for its beautiful beaches, the Virginia Aquarium, and the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse. As a major city in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Virginia Beach offers a mix of suburban and urban living with a strong community feel. For more information about the city, visit the official Virginia Beach website.
Paralegal Training Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach offers several educational institutions where aspiring paralegals can pursue their studies:
- Tidewater Community College (TCC)
- Location: Virginia Beach Campus
- Program: TCC offers an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of legal concepts and practical skills. TCC’s program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
- Website: Tidewater Community College Paralegal Studies
- Regent University
- Location: Regent University Campus, Virginia Beach
- Program: Regent University offers a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. The program focuses on developing critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills, with courses in legal research, writing, and litigation.
- Website: Regent University Paralegal Studies
- ECPI University
- Location: Virginia Beach Campus
- Program: ECPI University provides an Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills necessary for a successful paralegal career.
- Website: ECPI University Paralegal Studies
Paralegal Employment Opportunities in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is home to numerous law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies that offer employment opportunities for paralegals:
- Pender & Coward, P.C.
- Location: Town Center, Virginia Beach
- Description: A full-service law firm with a history dating back to 1889, Pender & Coward provides legal services in various practice areas, including business law, family law, and real estate.
- Website: Pender & Coward Careers
- Kaufman & Canoles, P.C.
- Location: Pembroke, Virginia Beach
- Description: As one of the largest law firms in Virginia, Kaufman & Canoles offers a wide range of legal services and has a strong reputation for its corporate and litigation practices.
- Website: Kaufman & Canoles Careers
- City of Virginia Beach – Office of the City Attorney
- Location: Municipal Center, Virginia Beach
- Description: The Office of the City Attorney provides legal services to the city government, handling matters related to municipal law and public policy.
- Website: City of Virginia Beach Employment
Prerequisites for Paralegal Programs
To enroll in a paralegal program in Virginia Beach, prospective students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Education Requirements: A high school diploma or GED is required. Some programs may prefer candidates with prior college coursework.
– Minimum Age: Generally, students must be at least 18 years old.
– Entrance Exams: Some programs may require placement tests or entrance exams.
– Background Checks: Certain programs may conduct background checks, especially if internships are part of the curriculum.
Certification Options for Paralegals in Virginia
While Virginia does not mandate certification for paralegals, obtaining certification can enhance career prospects. Consider the following options:
– National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA): Offers the Certified Paralegal (CP) designation. NALA Certification
– National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA): Offers the Paralegal CORE Competency Exam (PCCE) and the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE). NFPA Certification
– Virginia Alliance of Paralegal Association (VAPA): Offers the Virginia Registered Paralegal (VARP) credential. VAPA Certification
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a paralegal in Virginia Beach is an exciting opportunity to join the legal profession. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion for law. Contact a local school today to learn more about their paralegal programs and take the first step towards a rewarding career.
For more information on the job outlook for paralegals and legal assistants, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.