Any Paralegals who Hate Their Jobs and Regret it?

I'm a 49/m in the middle of an ABA paralegal program and am getting really annoyed by obtusely written statutes and cases that seem purposely designed by arrogant, lazy writers/lawyers to punish unfortunate readers.

After reading one case with a ruling that didn't make sense my instructor admitted that judges often have a preconceived ruling in mind then work backwards to fabricate reasoning to fit - i.e. the ruling isn't logical, it's just meant to appear so. I'm starting to DREAD the thought of doing this for the rest of my life.

QUESTION: Is my irritation with lawyers and judges and "the legal system" normal for a paralegal student at this stage or does it indicate I should get out now before wasting more time? Thanks

redvelvetflames4ever

I actually worked as a paralegal in two law offices after college. I couldn't stand it although ironically I am in law school now. Depending on the office you work for (criminal, RE, employment law...) would determine how much research you have to do (I worked in a criminal practice and then RE.) Trust me what you are learning in paralegal school you will not even utilize most of that knowledge. It is the same as with law school. Its preparation and the real world of lawyers is nothing what you learned in those 3 years of hell. Paralegals make really good money and in fact I have known quite a few who knew more than the lawyer himself! What I do suggest is if possible stay away from the small offices as they do not pay very well and rarely if ever offer benefits. I know the studies are frustrating and a majority of these opinions are absolutely redundant and asinine, and make absolutely no sense. In the end you will not be working for the judge but an attorney. What you are learning will help you better understand the work you will have to do and what the lawyer is talking about (especially if he/she is a pompous windbag and most are.) Good luck!

www.GetTheExperts.com

I'm sorry you are dealing with this uncomfortable decision. But as you know most people don't enjoy their jobs in this country. I stopped workig for an employer almost 5 years ago and I never looked back.

Maybe you can add my company to your list of options. We are helping lots of people like you make a living while making a difference in the legal system. The company is Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc.....a 34 year old publicly traded company.

I hope this helps. Ive been in this industry for almost 4 years and I love it. Check the source

chefsam

I am a 50 year old female who will graduate in November, I am currently working my second internship and I would like to know the answers you get to your question.

Notorious

You are 49 so you really need to think this thing through. You need to be doing something you enjoy and thus at the end of the day you will be fulfilled. If the program is a stepping stone for other things you have in mind, then you may wish to finish it otherwise move on because it WILL NOT GET BETTER.

I am older than you and was once a practicing Tax Attorney more that two decades ago to move on to something else. I never, ever made anywhere near the kind of money I made in the 80's but I have never regretted my decision. I am just a happier and yes, nicer person since. The stress of having to do something you abhor to earn a living will get to you sooner than later and life is just too short for that. Besides you will earn at the entry level for a year or two anyway and you may find out that you have more talent, skill and experience to work in a different field and earn much more.

Good luck.

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