just wondering how long it takes and the cost.. does it take years like it would if you were a doctor.. how long for a paralegal and what is that exactly..
2007-01-18 11:56:21 · 3 answers · asked by ? 5 in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
You need a bachelor's degree. That typically takes 4 years.
Law school takes 3 years (4 if a night program). You then need to pass the bar in order to be able to practice, so tack on another 4 or 5 months for that process.
It'll cost anywhere from $30K to $120K+.
There are no prerequisite courses to get into law school. If you have a bachelor's degree, a good enough GPA, and a good enough LSAT score, some law school will take you no matter what classes you took.
Doctors have to go to med school. Med school is 4 years. However, doctors have to do an internship and residency. Sometimes a fellowship. Most only take another 4 years, but certain areas can take a total of 8 or more years. So, to become a doctor takes a minimum of 5 years more than becoming a lawyer.
Paralegal schools normally run 2 years, altho there are some bachelor programs for it (can't really imagine why). They're basically assistants to lawyers and can do some of the things lawyers can, such as research or some daily task.
2007-01-18 12:21:45 · answer #1 · answered by Linkin 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes it does take years, first get all the prereqs out of the way then take some specialized classes then apply to law school. It costs between 80-140K depending on what law school you attend.
A paralegal is someone who can do legal paperwork but can't really give out legal advise. It takes about two years in a good paralegal program. Costs 5-10K.
2007-01-18 12:05:09 · answer #2 · answered by Loli M 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It depends on what type of lawyer you want to be and how far you want to go with it. My brother for example got his JD, but he already had an MA in Construction Management. So he has actually spent 8 years to get where he is today, but only two on his law degree. That only makes him a lawyer of Construction Management though. He would be unqualified for criminal law, which usually takes more than two years. As for cost, you're better off not thinking about it.
2007-01-18 13:05:59 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋