Legal Office Admin / Technology

A legal office admin/technology specialist, or paralegal, is responsible for assisting attorneys with preparing their cases and other legal matters. Although legal office admin/technology specialists are not allowed to present cases in court, to give legal advice, or to set legal fees, they are able to conduct research and organize the information in a way that helps the attorney prepare his or her case. In addition, a legal office admin/technology specialist may create drafts of legal paperwork and assist with certain services such as establishing trust funds, preparing tax returns, and planning estates.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, legal office admin/technology specialists made an annual median income of $43,040 in 2006. Those who worked for the Federal Government earned the most, with an annual median income of $56,080. Those who worked for the State government earned the least per year, with a median annual income of $38,020.

In order to become a legal office admin/technology specialist, you must earn a minimum of an associate's degree. Many employers, however, prefer to hire those with a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies with an emphasis on computers and technology.

A good candidate for a career as a legal office admin/technology specialist is someone who has excellent research skills and an interest in law. Those who are good with computers, highly organized, and willing to remain informed regarding new legal developments are particularly well suited to this career.