Paralegals are essential to the success of any legal team. They provide critical support in legal research, case preparation, document management, and client communication.
But to perform at a high level and contribute meaningfully to a law firm’s operations, paralegals need a strong foundation of training and ongoing professional development.
At Best Era, we offer courses and work with law firms to build high-performing legal teams, and that includes equipping paralegals with the tools, skills, and knowledge they need to succeed.
Whether you’re hiring your first paralegal or looking to enhance the performance of your current staff, this guide will help you understand what training paralegals need and why it matters.
What Is a Paralegal?
A paralegal is a legal professional who assists attorneys by performing substantive legal work that requires knowledge of legal concepts and procedures, but not a license to practice law.
While paralegals can’t offer legal advice or represent clients in court, they are responsible for:
- Conducting legal research
- Drafting documents and correspondence
- Organizing case files and discovery
- Assisting with trial preparation
- Managing client communications
Proper training ensures that paralegals can perform these tasks accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with legal standards.
What Educational Background Do Paralegals Need?
Paralegal training often starts with formal education. There are several educational paths that prepare individuals for a career as a paralegal:
1. Paralegal Certificate Programs
These are intensive, short-term programs (often 6 months to 1 year) that provide focused training in legal procedures, terminology, and document preparation. Ideal for individuals with a prior degree.
2. Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies
A two-year degree that includes both legal and general education coursework. This is a popular route for entry-level paralegals.
3. Bachelor’s Degree With Paralegal Focus
Some universities offer four-year degrees with a concentration or minor in paralegal studies, providing broader knowledge and greater career flexibility.
4. ABA-Approved Paralegal Programs
Programs approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) are often preferred by employers due to their rigorous curriculum and adherence to industry standards.
Many law firms seek candidates with formal paralegal education, especially when hiring for mid-size to large practices or specialized legal areas. However, at Best Era, we don’t believe a formal education program is essential for the makings of a great paralegal.
Instead, hiring for skills like customer service and tech literacy is most beneficial when seeking candidates, and investing in ongoing training offers better success and long-term retention.
What On-the-Job Training Do Paralegals Need?
While education provides the foundation, on-the-job training is crucial for adapting to a specific law firm’s workflows, software, and expectations. This training may include:
- Familiarization with case management software (e.g., Filevine, Clio, Lawmatics)
- Firm–specific filing and documentation standards
- Client intake and communication protocols
- Billing and time tracking systems
- Compliance procedures for confidentiality and ethical boundaries
Para Era, powered by Best Era, helps law firms create structured onboarding programs that reduce ramp-up time and ensure paralegals contribute value quickly.
What Legal Skills Should Paralegals Be Trained In?
To be effective, paralegals must master a variety of technical and soft skills. Key legal competencies include:
- Legal research and writing: Using platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis to gather and cite information
- Document drafting: Creating legal documents such as pleadings, contracts, and discovery requests
- Litigation support: Assisting with trial prep, managing exhibits, and coordinating filings
- E-discovery procedures: Handling digital data collection and organization for litigation
- Court procedures and deadlines: Understanding local, state, and federal rules
Regular skills assessments and targeted training sessions help ensure paralegals remain sharp, accurate, and aligned with current legal standards.
Is Technology Training Important for Paralegals?
Absolutely. As law firms increasingly rely on technology to streamline operations, tech proficiency is no longer optional; it’s essential.
Paralegals should be trained in:
- Case and document management software
- Cloud–based storage and collaboration tools
- E–filing systems for court submissions
- Time tracking and billing platforms
- Data privacy and cybersecurity protocols
Do Paralegals Need Continuing Education?
Yes; just like attorneys, paralegals benefit from ongoing professional development. Continuing education helps them:
- Stay current with legal updates and procedural changes
- Deepen knowledge in specialized practice areas
- Learn about emerging legal technologies and tools
- Improve communication, organization, and leadership skills
- Advance their careers within the firm or industry
Some states and professional organizations require or encourage continuing education for certified or registered paralegals. Para Era, powered by Best Era, helps firms implement continuous training frameworks that support staff growth and retention.
What Certifications Can Paralegals Pursue?
While certification is not always required, it can significantly enhance a paralegal’s credibility and marketability. Popular certifications include:
- Certified Paralegal (CP) from NALA – The Paralegal Association
- Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) for those seeking specialization
- Professional Paralegal (PP) from NALS – the association for legal professionals
- PACE Registered Paralegal (RP) from the NFPA – for experienced professionals
Employers often value certifications when hiring, promoting, or assigning high-responsibility tasks.
How Can Law Firms Support Paralegal Training?
Law firms that invest in paralegal training benefit from:
- Greater productivity and fewer errors
- Improved client service and faster case resolution
- Higher job satisfaction and lower turnover
- Smoother integration of legal tech tools
- Scalable support structures for attorneys
To support their paralegals, law firms should:
- Create clear training paths and growth opportunities
- Offer time and funding for CLE or certification courses
- Provide access to coaching, mentoring, or internal workshops
- Partner with legal consulting experts like Para Era, powered by Best Era, to develop training strategies tailored to the firm’s size and practice areas
Final Thoughts: Training Is Essential to Paralegal Success
So, what training do paralegals need? The answer is a combination of formal education, practical skills development, technology training, and continuous learning. A well-trained paralegal is more than just administrative support; they are a strategic asset to any legal team.
At Best Era, we help law firms create, train, and optimize high-performing legal support teams. Whether you’re onboarding a new paralegal or looking to level up your entire staff, our training and consulting services are designed to drive real results.
👉 Need help training your paralegal team? Contact us today to explore custom onboarding, legal tech training, and professional development solutions.