Your Essential Guide to Becoming a Criminal Law Paralegal

A criminal law paralegal assists criminal defense attorneys and prosecutors. The responsibilities of a criminal law paralegal may include:

A criminal law paralegal is a legal professional who assists lawyers with criminal cases. The job may be called a “criminal litigation paralegal” or a “criminal defense paralegal,” but it’s the same position. 

These paralegals usually work for public defenders, private criminal defense law firms, or special interest groups to aid in criminal defense. They may also work for state or federal prosecutors. Paralegals cannot practice law, so they work under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

Prosecution Paralegal

As a criminal law paralegal for the prosecution, the paralegal may:

• Prepare exhibits, witnesses, and other critical information for the case.

• Gather and organize appropriate documents, including police reports, photographs, cell phone information, and information from alcohol and drug testing experts.

• Get information from investigators and gather the appropriate documents for the public defender. 

• Redact private information from documents and send the paperwork to the defense counsel.

Defense Paralegal

In comparison, a criminal law paralegal for the defense will usually be responsible for the following tasks:

• Review disclosure statements and break down documents coming in, such as police reports

• Assist attorneys through trial by helping to plan trial strategy and consult with parties, witnesses, and experts

• Investigate and analyze facts

• Handling legal research and preparing legal documents, including petitions, opinions, motions, and disclosures

• Handle a large volume of cases, depending on the firm the paralegal is working for 

• Prepare initial documents, such as a Notice of Appeal and post-conviction relief proceedings

If you are considering a career as a criminal law paralegal, you must have a solid understanding of the classification of crimes and the legal procedures associated with criminal cases. You should know laws related to search and seizure, bail, probation, personal injury, and arrests. Familiarity with constitutional law and specific statutes related to criminal charges is essential.

You must have strong analytical abilities, proficiency in legal research tools like Westlaw and Lexis, and effective communication skills.

Most criminal law paralegals enter the legal field by earning an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, criminal justice, or criminal justice administration, such as through Purdue Global or Oakland Community College. These programs typically take 18 months to two years to complete, including introductory courses such as English and math. These courses build on the essential competencies of a paralegal, including critical thinking and communication skills. The programs also offer specialized legal classes to establish a strong foundation of legal knowledge.

Bachelor’s Degree

Another path to becoming a criminal law paralegal is to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s programs usually span four years, and students can earn a degree in legal studies or criminal justice, which helps them better understand the legal system. Those interested in specializing in criminal law can also take specific courses to prepare for this field. Several examples of bachelor programs that offer specialization in criminal law include American Military University, Liberty University, and Arizona State University.

Post-Degree Certificate

Those with a bachelor’s degree can obtain a post-degree certificate in paralegal studies. These programs provide more intensive paralegal training and offer a pathway to a paralegal career. To learn more about becoming certified, check out nationally recognized organizations that provide certification programs, such as the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc.(NFPA) and NALA, The Paralegal Association. 

Before enrolling in one of these programs or pursuing a certification, research and choose a paralegal program that fits your interests. Look for a program with a curriculum relevant to criminal law and accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

Criminal law paralegals often have a varied and interesting workload, dealing with a wide range of legal issues in criminal law, which makes for exciting days. However, you need to understand the other side of working as a criminal law paralegal to determine if this career path is right for you.

Criminal law paralegals work long hours, especially when preparing for trial. They may also experience high-stress levels when approaching deadlines, dealing with complex legal issues, and challenging clients. Your ability to work late and remain calm in high-stress environments, such as during a criminal trial, can be tested as a criminal law paralegal.

However, those who thrive under pressure and enjoy a fast-paced environment can continue to experience diverse work and opportunities for career advancement as criminal law paralegals. This may include progressing to a senior paralegal role, specializing in juvenile justice or capital cases, or pursuing further education in law to become a criminal defense attorney.

The demand for paralegals is high, and their job outlook remains excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow by four percent from 2022 to 2032, resulting in about 38,000 job openings for paralegals yearly over the decade. 

Criminal paralegals can earn a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits. On average, criminal defense paralegals earn around $59,731 annually, with top earners making over $80,000. Legal professionals may receive retirement plans, health insurance, and paid time off. Salary can vary significantly based on a paralegal's years of experience, employer, and location. Some of the top cities for criminal defense paralegals offering salaries above the national average include:

• Berkeley, California ($73,122)

• New York City, NY ($70,744)

• Renton, Washington ($70,355) 

• Santa Monica, CA ($69,864)

• Daly City, CA ($69,200)

If you have a passion for working in the legal field and making an impact in the lives of others, then a career as a criminal law paralegal may be for you. Paralegals help attorneys prepare for trials and add value to the legal practice and clients. Before pursuing this profession, decide if a career as a criminal law paralegal is the right fit for you. Ask yourself these questions:

• Can you handle emotionally charged cases?

• Do you have an interest in upholding justice?

• Can you work long hours and weekends?

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• Do you have solid communication skills and the ability to multi-task?

• What are your personal and professional goals?

If you are an aspiring criminal law paralegal and want further resources regarding networking opportunities, continuing education, and professional development, consider the following sites, books, and websites:

• NALA, The Paralegal Association

• American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc.

• The National Federation of Paralegal Associations

• American Bar Association – Criminal Law Section

• Fundamentals of Criminal Law and Procedure for Paralegals, Third Edition

• Criminal Law and Procedure for the Paralegal, Fourth Edition

As a criminal law paralegal, whether you decide to work for a defense law firm or the prosecutor’s office, you will have the opportunity to help individuals in trouble or assist victims of crimes in getting the justice they deserve. Either way, a career as a criminal law paralegal can be rewarding.

If you are considering pursuing a position as a criminal law paralegal, start your journey today by reviewing potential paralegal programs to enroll in, networking with other legal professionals, and gaining practical experience that can help you get started in this fulfilling position.