Paralegal nurses bring nursing knowledge to the practice of law, working as consultants in law firms, hospitals, and insurance companies. To become one, you’ll need a nursing degree, paralegal degree, and certification from the National Association of Legal Assistants.
A paralegal nurse is a person who brings their nursing knowledge to the practice of law. Although not a lawyer, paralegal nurses work as consultants in law firms, hospitals and insurance companies. They perform a wide variety of tasks, including writing petitions and documents, preparing clients for court hearings, and gathering information for general advice. To become a paralegal nurse, you’ll typically need a nursing degree, hands-on training, and certification.
The first step to becoming a paralegal nurse is usually to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing. This is achieved by attending an accredited college and completing a four-year degree in nursing. Once obtained, it can be useful to gain practical experience so that clinical information can be brought to court.
Next, you will likely need a paralegal degree to become a paralegal nurse, which can be obtained by attending an on-campus residential program or completing an online degree or certification program. Typically, it is important that the program be approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) to ensure that students receive the educational foundation necessary to meet the various goals of the bar. These courses are generally designed to give students a strong understanding of the American judicial system, civil actions, and ethics.
Paralegal courses vary in length and cost. Courses generally last 15 months and cost approximately $7,000 (US). While it’s possible to find work with just a two-year degree or certificate, many paralegals are entering the field with four years of schooling. When choosing a school, you can visit the actual campus to get an idea of what the faculty and students are like.
In order to become a paralegal nurse after completing your degrees and practical training, you will need to be certified by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). This credential tells a potential employer or client that you are capable of providing professional legal services in a paralegal capacity. This certificate is recognized by the ABA as a valid credential. The exam is computer-based and is offered three times a year. An examinee must be a graduate of an ABA-approved paralegal program or possess a degree in legal studies.
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