Top Five Skills Employers Desired in Criminal Justice Paralegals Research done by : Nelly Rubio

- This skill would be used in interviewing a client,contacting an expert, taking witness statements, or discussing a case with the supervising attorney. -As the lawyers right- hand, paralegals must have the ability to speak clearly and effectively with, but not limited to, opposing council, potential clients, experts witnesses, and other parties in litigation. #1 Communication

#2 Professionalism Appearance Appearance - Appropriate attire - No jeans, t- shirts, flip flops or any casual wear. Good Ethics Good Ethics - Be courteous and professional mannerism

#3 Criminal Law Knowledge Texas Workforce Texas Workforce College Central College Central Monster Monster - In the websites listed above, I reviewed what criminal attorneys were looking for when hiring a paralegal. They all wanted basic criminal law knowledge.

#4 Certified Training Certificate Certificate Degree Degree - Lawyers require a certificate or degree that are also equivalent to experience

#5 Analytical and Technology Skills All of the adds I reviewed in my research ask for an individual to be computer literate, some were willing to train in using the software. All of the adds I reviewed in my research ask for an individual to be computer literate, some were willing to train in using the software. Analytical skills also means being resourceful, problem solving abilities and multi-tasking. Analytical skills also means being resourceful, problem solving abilities and multi-tasking.

20 TIPS TO ADVANCE YOUR LEGAL CAREER 1. Proactively seek new assignments and challenges. 2. Contribute to the companys bottom line. 3. Avoid placing limits on the scope of your position. 4. Cultivate relationships with people in power. 5. Develop and implement more efficient work processes. 6. Become technologically proficient. 7. Raise your company profile through networking, committees and outside assignments. 8. Become the go-to person in a niche area of expertise. 9. Advance your education and/or obtain specialty certification. 10. Become a top producer, no matter what the yardstick (quotas, billable hours).

continued 11. Polish your interpersonal skills. 12. Find a mentor. 13. Be a team player yet demonstrate independent thought. 14. Maintain an upbeat, positive attitude. 15. Dont just meet, but beat deadlines. 16. Perfect your writing skills. 17. Deliver a consistently high- level work product. 18. Establish and exceed career goals and performance objectives. 19. Learn the art of self-promotion; publicize your accomplishments. 20. Be an innovator.