Legal Secretaries

High School

Because a legal secretary must be able to communicate the attorney's ideas in written and oral form, it's important to get a firm grounding in English (especially writing), spelling, typing, and public speaking. Computers are used extensively in law offices, so be sure to gain computer experience while in high school. Government and political science courses will get you started on the road to legal knowledge as well. Classes that give you experience with research are also important.

Postsecondary Training

Many legal secretaries get their training through established one- or two-year legal secretary programs. These programs are available at most business, vocational, and junior colleges. You could also obtain a four-year degree to get a more well-rounded education. Courses taken should focus on specific skills and knowledge needed by a legal secretary, such as computers, keyboarding, English, legal writing, editing, researching, and communication. NALS…the association for legal professionals also offers basic and advanced legal secretary training courses. 

As businesses continue to expand worldwide, employers are increasingly looking for candidates with bachelor's degrees and professional certifications.

Certification

Some colleges and universities offer certificate programs in legal studies, paralegal studies, legal research, business writing and communication, and related areas. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs. 

Those who earn certification from NALS...the association for legal professionals may pursue specialty certificates in one or more of the following areas: Administrative Law; Appellate Law; Bankruptcy Law; Business Law; Civil Litigation; Contract Law; Corporate Law; Criminal Law; E-Discovery; Elder Law; Employment Law; Estate Planning/Probate; Family Law; Immigration Law; Insurance Law; Intellectual Property; Juvenile Law; Law Office Management; Personal Injury Law; Real Estate Law; and Trial Management. Visit https://www.nals.org/page/specialtycertificate for more information. 

Other Education or Training

NALS...the association for legal professionals offers a variety of continuing legal education opportunities, including webinars, educational events, seminars, and conferences. Recent opportunities included Ethical Issues for Legal Support Professionals, Bridge the Gap: Effective Communication Across Generations, and Speak with Confidence: Mastering the Art of Public Speaking. Some courses help students prepare for certification. Contact NALS for more information.