Best Online Paralegal Certifications in Florida (FL)

Exploring Florida’s Paralegal Certificates

A one-year paralegal certificate program lays the foundation for students to meet Florida paralegal requirements and enter the field. During their studies, students take coursework that covers paralegal essentials, including the writing and office skills needed to get their first paralegal job. Students will also become familiar with paralegal procedures, as well as legal concepts related to contract, criminal, and business law.

All About Paralegal Associate Degrees in Florida

During two-year paralegal associate degree programs, students learn the nuts and bolts of working in the profession as they gain a broad understanding of legal concepts and meet Florida paralegal requirements.

Students graduate with important skills such as how to conduct legal research, manage a law office, and interpret and report on legal documents. Also, associate degree programs emphasize the importance of adhering to the ethical standards that guide paralegal work.

Floridian Paralegal Bachelor’s Programs

A paralegal bachelor’s degree is for those who want to sharpen their skills and increase their expertise so they can better meet the needs of the legal community. In addition to taking courses that focus on a specific practice area, students learn more advanced legal research, analysis, interviewing, and writing methods as they work toward meeting Florida paralegal requirements. Courses may also cover legal ethics and law office computing.

Answering Online Paralegal Student FAQs

What is the cost of paralegal programs in Florida?

The cost of paralegal programs in Florida largely depends on what level of education you are seeking. Most 2-year degrees we found cost between $7,000-$8,000, whereas receiving a bachelor’s degree can cost more than $24,000 for resident students. Many options for financial aid are available for paralegal students, however, which can help greatly lower the personal cost of your education.

What financial aid can be applied toward a paralegal program in Florida?

Although many paralegal schools in Florida are affordable, most students are still concerned about how they’re going to pay for their education. As with other education programs, financial aid opportunities are available as you work through Florida paralegal requirements. You can receive scholarships, loans, and grants from multiple sources, such as the school you attend, state and federal governments, and law firms. Also, professional paralegal associations provide funding to support those interested in entering this field. For example, the Paralegal Association of Florida offers scholarships of up to $500.

For more information about the financing options paralegal students have, review our financial aid and scholarship guides.

Are online paralegal programs recognized by employers?

As long as your program is regionally or nationally accredited, then you shouldn’t run into any issues with receiving your degree online versus attending school in person. To give you a leg up, make sure that the program you attend is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), which ensures quality education and career competency. Doing so can help you stand out from other candidates in your job search.

What areas of law can I specialize in as a paralegal?

As a paralegal in Florida, you can work in a wide variety of legal specialties. These include:

• Business and Corporate Law: focuses on contracts, business regulations, and corporate governance; prepares students for roles in corporate legal departments or business compliance.
• Criminal Law: covers criminal justice procedures, evidence, and constitutional rights; ideal for those interested in law enforcement, criminal defense, or prosecution.
• Family Law: includes topics like divorce, child custody, and adoption; prepares students for legal work in family courts or private law firms.
• Intellectual Property Law: deals with copyrights, patents, and trademarks; great for those interested in media, technology, or entertainment law.
• International Law: focuses on global legal systems, treaties, and trade regulations; beneficial for careers in diplomacy, immigration, or multinational businesses.
• Litigation and Trial Advocacy: covers courtroom procedures, civil litigation, and dispute resolution; useful for those pursuing law school or working as legal assistants in trial settings.
• Public Law and Government: examines constitutional law, administrative law, and public policy, ideal for careers in government agencies or legislative offices.
• Real Estate and Property Law: includes topics like contracts, land use, and real estate transactions, prepares students for work in real estate firms, title companies, or property law firms.
• Health Law: covers legal and ethical issues in healthcare, including malpractice and patient rights; useful for careers in healthcare administration or medical compliance.
• Environmental Law: focuses on laws regarding natural resources, pollution, and sustainability; beneficial for work in government agencies or environmental organizations.

How much do paralegals make in Florida?

According to Indeed, paralegals in Florida make an average of $63,000 a year, with most jobs paying anywhere between $44,000 and $89,000. Pay varies throughout the state, with paralegals typically making more in larger cities.

Salary & Career Trends for Florida Paralegals

Grow your Career: Florida Paralegal Resources

In Florida, paralegal students can benefit from a variety of resources, including accredited educational programs, professional associations like the Florida Paralegal Association and NALA, certification opportunities (e.g., FRP, CP), job boards, continuing legal education (CLE) courses, networking events, legal aid organizations for hands-on experience, and specialized training in various legal fields.

• Central Florida Paralegal Association
  To promote high standards among local paralegals, the Central Florida Paralegal Association offers several resources, including social activities and meetings for members, newsletters, and continuing legal education. Also, members have access to a job referral service and professional development services.
• Northwest Florida Paralegal Association
  The Northwest Florida Paralegal Association has the mission of promoting the field through education and awareness. To do this, the organization provides seminars and other events.
• Paralegal Association of Florida
  Since 1976, the Paralegal Association of Florida has represented the needs of paralegals around the state. Students join the organization if they’re enrolled in an accredited paralegal program and taking at least six credits of law-related coursework.
• South Florida Paralegal Association
  The South Florida Paralegal Association offers continuing education, membership meetings, and seminars designed to empower members of the field. The organization is an affiliate of the National Association of Legal Assistants and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations.
• Southwest Florida Paralegal Association
  The Southwest Florida Paralegal Association has been working to build a strong community of paralegals since its inception in 1997. Member benefits include access to a job bank and continuing education courses.

List of the Best Schools for Online Paralegal Programs in Florida

Online paralegal programs in Florida can really benefit busy students. Depending on the program, you can study partially or entirely online, which provides the convenience you need and saves you money. We take flexibility and other desirable attributes into account in our ranked list of programs below. For more information, please see our detailed breakdown in the methodology pop-up above.