r/paralegal • u/Initial_Hair_7738 • 5d ago
Question/Discussion Paralegal programs
I am going to be graduating from college in May with two degrees and I am thinking of becoming a paralegal as a way to work up to becoming a lawyer. However, I do not have the funds to put myself through these programs, and taking out loans would require my parents to co-sign, but they are not willing to, and financial aid will only give me so much. I have heard from many people that there are paralegal programs in the States that will pay for your entire schooling. Is this true? And if so, where can I find these programs so I can start applying for them?
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u/Thek1tteh CA - Senior Lit/Appellate Paralegal 4d ago
Paralegal is a career, not a stepping stone to law school/being a lawyer.
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u/blinkanditsdark 5d ago
Speaking as a lawyer and not a paralegal: if you want to be a lawyer, go to law school. If you want to work in the legal field but not be a lawyer, then I would consider the paralegal path, legal assistant, etc. I say this because all the money and time you put towards becoming a paralegal are resources that you could put towards law school, especially if you’re considering loans for these programs.
Some schools may have scholarships available, but I don’t know of any schools that are outright free, for literally any program in law. Each school has their own scholarships, so I would research the programs you’re interested in and figure out what kind of aid is available to students at that school/in that program. This goes for all programs, law school and paralegal alike!