Any advice from paralegals on certification and job success? I have a BA in Communications.?

I'm interested in online programs. Recommendations?

Look at the American Bar Association's website for accredited institutions in your area that have paralegal programs.

http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/para...

Generally, mere certificates don't have much standing and potential employers will not be impressed, especially if it was obtained on-line. But because you already have a bachelor's degree, a certificate may be all that you need. I usually recommend getting at least an associates but in your case I think a certificate would be adequate. However, I highly urge you to take on campus classes if available. This is not the kind of stuff you can learn by reading, you need to hear lecture, be able to ask questions, have someone right there to guide you through the researching and shepardizing process, have a partner while practicing initial client interviews...

FYI, it is very VERY hard to find paralegal positions without work experience. And even though you have a BA you will have to work and fight hard to get into a law office with no experience. Don't get discouraged.

Best of luck to you!!

My advice - unless you have substantial law office experience, avoid programs that are 100% online.

The opportunities for a paralegal really depends on the specialty. The most in demand paralegals are those in the litigation field; followed by corporate paralegals who are responsible for maintaining corporate records, articles of incorporation, etc. While the "least" markeable [but the "highest" paid] paralegals are in the field of intellectual property [i.e., patents, trademarks] and immigration law. In conclusion, choose your paralegal courses accordingly, with emphasis on litigation preparation [discovery], docketing/calendaring of incoming pleadings [calendaring] and trial preparation [creating Exhibit tabs, Bajii jury instructions, etc.]. The "pro" side of a litigation paralegal is often "unlimited" overtime which can amount to a high salary range of $65,000 to $75,000 per year, while the "downside," being constantly pressured to meet a monthly client billable quota. And failing to meet that quota, often results in the paralegal's overnight dismissal. It's not a pretty picture. I just want to lay out what really happens in the real world of litigators and their relationship with subordinate paralegals.

Good luck!