If I become a paralegal, what government agencies will allow me to represent clients without my also getting a law degree?
If I become a paralegal, what government agencies will allow me to represent clients without my also getting a law degree?
Some government agencies permit non-lawyer representation. The SSA may permit an accredited individual to represent clients, and the IRS has a program for enrolled agents.
What you will need to do is investigate state and federal agencies in which you might want to represent clients, find out if they permit non-lawyers in their administrative proceedings and, if so, determine what credentials and accreditation that they require before allowing you to appear.
I know anyone can represent social security clients, you don't have to be a paralegal, but you do have to pass a test if you want to get paid. My impression is the test is pretty hard, but I don't know.
(if you don't want to get paid, anyone can do it).
For the most part it is not your status as a paralegal that would allow you to represent a person before a government agency. Bear in mind that in most states paralegals are not certified by the state so there is no set standard for what constitutes a paralegal in those states. Rather, each agency will have its own criteria regarding what is acceptable. If they accept someone other than an attorney for paid representation, it is usually either some professional licensed by the state or federal government or a person who has passed a test given by the agency. In short, if you are hoping that becoming a paralegal will open doors for you to represent people you may be disappointed.
good post. this makes a lot of sense.
I think a degree as a paralegal may help you get a job as a paralegal in a law office. In other words, it will look good on your resume, but it won't give you any special status with government agencies.
I do not know a lot about paralegal work, but my sense is that it can vary a lot. Some paralegal jobs are just being a secretary or receptionist, and others you may help handle cases or write briefs and be involved in legal work.