--For dummies.

Includes index

Part 1. A snapshot of the exciting and lucrative paralegal profession. Discovering the paralegal profession -- Membership has its privileges : paralegal associations and their certification exams -- The hunt is on: securing a paralegal position -- Part 2. Important legal concepts every paralegal should know. "All rise" : the American judicial system -- The big three : categories of law -- Taking a case to trial : the litigation process -- How it's done : important rules of civil procedure and evidence -- Because I said so : the categories of legal authority -- The substantive law areas most commonly practiced by paralegals -- Part 3. Putting it into practice: the paralegal in the civil litigation process. The paper chase : preparing documents -- Elementary my dear Eatson : legal investigation -- Chewing the fat : legal interviewing -- Burning the midnight oil : legal research -- Where the rubber hits the road : trial performance -- The official word : ethical codes for legal professionals -- Identifying the skills paralegals need to soar. Presenting a clear, concise legal writing style -- Using technology in law -- Law office management 101 -- The part of tens. The ten most important rules of ethics -- Ten things every paralegal should know -- Ten survival tips to thrive in the legal environment -- Appendix A: Glossary of important legal terms : a mini legal dictionary -- Appendix B: What you'll find online

"The demand for paralegal professionals is exploding, and this book explains in plain English the skills and requirements you need to pursue this rewarding career. Inside, you'll discover the ins and outs of what it's like to be a paralegal, from preparing documents and performing legal research to obtaining certification, hunting for work, and understanding legal concepts."--Page 4 of cover