Summarize:

There are many areas of the law in which you could work as a legal secretary. The major distinction is between civil and criminal law, but within civil law there are narrower areas of specialty, including corporate litigation, real estate, contracts, employment. In thinking about which would be the best fit for you, consider your interests and the type of environment in which you would like to work. If you like the idea of working for the government and for the public interest, you may like working for a District Attorney or Public Defender's Office. If you like meeting people from other countries, a small immigration firm might be a good fit. If you are interesting in earning a high salary and do not mind stress, consider working for a corporate law firm. Tailor your resume to the work done by the particular employer. If, for example, you took a training course in filing documents in criminal court and you are applying for a job with a criminal defense firm or Public Defender's Office, include the course prominently on your resume. Highlight relevant work experience or, if you have none, draw attention to relevant skills, such as computer and interpersonal skills, and familiarity with legal procedure. Once you know the area of the law in which you would like to work, a temp agency can help place you in available jobs in that field. Though temp jobs are not ideal in terms of salary or benefits, they are a great way for you gain work experience and network with employers. Finding an entry-level job when you do not yet have experience can be challenging. For this reason, it is important that you be strategic in choosing employers more likely to hire brand new legal secretaries. Target solo practitioners and small firms. Smaller firms, consisting of one or two attorneys, are more likely to accept you with less experience. Apply for government jobs. Though government jobs pay less than large corporate firms, the provide an excellent opportunity for new legal secretaries to break into the job market.
Choose an area of specialty. Prepare a strong resume. Contact a temp agency. Be strategic in where you look for permanent jobs.