5 Ways To Become A Paralegal In The Military

Pursuing a career as a paralegal in the military can be a rewarding and challenging profession. Paralegals, also known as legal specialists or legal assistants, play a crucial role in supporting military lawyers and helping to ensure that justice is served. If you're interested in becoming a paralegal in the military, here are five ways to get started:

As a paralegal in the military, you'll have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including military bases, courts, and legal offices. You'll be responsible for assisting military lawyers with research, preparing documents, and conducting interviews. You'll also have the chance to work on a wide range of cases, from military justice to administrative law. To become a paralegal in the military, you'll need to meet certain educational and training requirements, as well as obtain security clearance.

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

To become a paralegal in the military, you'll need to meet certain basic requirements. These typically include being a U.S. citizen, being at least 18 years old, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. You'll also need to score well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test and meet physical fitness standards.

ASVAB Test Scores

To become a paralegal in the military, you'll need to score well on the ASVAB test. The test measures your aptitude in several areas, including general science, arithmetic reasoning, and word knowledge. You'll need to score high enough to qualify for the military's legal specialist career field.

Physical Fitness Standards

In addition to meeting educational requirements, you'll also need to meet physical fitness standards. This includes passing a physical fitness test and meeting body fat percentage standards.

2. Complete Military Training

Once you've met the basic requirements, you'll need to complete military training. This includes basic training, also known as boot camp, as well as job-specific training. As a paralegal, you'll attend the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) training course, which covers topics such as military law, court reporting, and trial procedure.

Basic Training

Basic training, also known as boot camp, is the first step in becoming a paralegal in the military. During basic training, you'll learn the fundamentals of military life, including drill and ceremony, first aid, and combat skills.

MOS Training

After completing basic training, you'll attend MOS training, which is job-specific training for paralegals. During MOS training, you'll learn about military law, court reporting, and trial procedure. You'll also learn how to prepare documents, conduct interviews, and assist military lawyers with research.

3. Get a Degree or Certification

While not always required, having a degree or certification can be beneficial in becoming a paralegal in the military. A degree in a field such as paralegal studies, law, or criminal justice can be helpful in preparing you for the job.

Paralegal Studies Degree

A degree in paralegal studies can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to become a paralegal in the military. A paralegal studies program will cover topics such as law, ethics, and research and writing.

Certification

Certification can also be beneficial in becoming a paralegal in the military. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers a Certified Paralegal (CP) certification, which demonstrates your expertise and knowledge in the field.

4. Gain Experience

Gaining experience is an important step in becoming a paralegal in the military. You can gain experience by working in a law office or court, or by volunteering to assist military lawyers.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and make connections in the field. You can volunteer to assist military lawyers with research, prepare documents, and conduct interviews.

Internships

Internships are another way to gain experience. You can intern at a law office or court, where you'll have the opportunity to work with lawyers and gain hands-on experience.

5. Obtain Security Clearance

Finally, to become a paralegal in the military, you'll need to obtain security clearance. This involves a background check and a review of your personal history.

Background Check

A background check is a requirement for obtaining security clearance. The check will review your personal history, including your employment history, education, and any past arrests or convictions.

Security Clearance Levels

There are different levels of security clearance, including Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret. The level of clearance you need will depend on the specific job and the type of information you'll be working with.

Gallery of Military Paralegal Images

What is the role of a paralegal in the military?

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The role of a paralegal in the military is to assist military lawyers with research, prepare documents, and conduct interviews.

What education and training are required to become a paralegal in the military?

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To become a paralegal in the military, you'll need to meet basic requirements, complete military training, and obtain a degree or certification.

How do I obtain security clearance to become a paralegal in the military?

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To obtain security clearance, you'll need to undergo a background check and review of your personal history.

Becoming a paralegal in the military requires meeting basic requirements, completing military training, getting a degree or certification, gaining experience, and obtaining security clearance. By following these steps, you can start a rewarding career as a paralegal in the military.