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Paralegals are in high demand all across the country.
This gratifying career is ideal for individuals with excellent organizational skills and a desire to work with legal professionals to help get results.
Anyone interested in becoming a paralegal should learn more about the job prospects and the educational opportunities in Arkansas.
Article Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements to Become a Paralegal in Arkansas
There are currently no legal certification requirements for individuals who want to become paralegals in Arkansas.
However, it is highly recommended that those serious about becoming proficient in their profession take an accredited course and become nationally certified by telling the LCP national exam.
Individuals with adequate credentials will have a better chance of finding the best jobs in the industry.
5 Paralegal Schools in Arkansas
There are many educational opportunities for individuals who want to become paralegals.
The following are the top five options for students who want a comprehensive education.
Northwest Arkansas Community College
This paralegal studies program gives students the skills, training, and insight they need to become practical and ethical parallel professionals.
The college tuition cost for one year is approximately $5,000.
The location of the college campus is one College Drive, Bentonville, AR 72712.
The phone number for the admissions office is 479-636-9222.
South Arkansas Community College -West Campus
The criminal justice program at South Arkansas Community College is ideal for individuals seeking criminal justice degrees for various purposes, including a paralegal.
This is a two-year associate’s degree that provides comprehensive hands-on training.
The cost of tuition is $3,012 per year.
The location of the campus is 300 South West Avenue, Eldorado, AR 71730.
The phone number for the admissions office is 870-862-8131.
Arkansas Northeast College
The criminal justice two-year associate degree is ideal for entry-level jobs in the legal field, including paralegals.
In-state tuition for the year is $2,654 for in-state students.
The location of the college is 2501 South Division Street, Blytheville, AR-72315.
The phone number for the admissions office is 870-762-1020.
University of Arkansas School of Law
This comprehensive course offers both online and in-person instruction to provide the best education possible for future paralegals in Arkansas.
The cost of tuition for a full 15 credit hours per semester is approximately $7,500.
The location of the school’s campus is 1045 West Maple Street, Fayetteville, AR 72701.
The phone number for the admissions office is 479-575-5601.
UALR William H Bowen School of Law
The school offers an online course that is designed to provide flexibility and education for individuals who cannot make in-person classes.
This course is designed to completely train and educate people to pass the certified paralegal exam.
The cost of tuition is $216 per credit hour.
The location of the school campus is 1201 McMath Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72202.
The phone number for the admissions office is 501-324-9434.
It is important to check with each institution to learn more about their prerequisites and requirements for completing courses successfully.
It is also important to understand that each program can charge a significantly different some for their formal training programs.
Paralegal Schools in Arkansas – Summary Table
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Northwest Arkansas Community College | 1 College Dr, Bentonville, AR 72712 |
| South Arkansas Community College -West Campus | 300 S West Ave, El Dorado, AR 71730 |
| Arkansas Northeast College | 2501 S Division St, Blytheville, AR 72315 |
| University of Arkansas School of Law | 1045 W Maple St, Fayetteville, AR 72701 |
| UALR William H Bowen School of Law | 1201 McMath Ave, Little Rock, AR 72202 |
Salary for a Paralegal in Arkansas
The average salary for a paralegal in Arkansas is $60,128 per year.
However, that figure can vary greatly depending on a few factors such as length of experience, personal skills, and the location of the job.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Little Rock | $55,662 |
| Fort Smith | $52,539 |
| North Little Rock | $55,662 |
| Fayetteville | $54,736 |
| Jonesboro | $55,318 |
| Pine Bluff | $53,832 |
| Springdale | $54,736 |
| Conway | $55,121 |
| Rogers | $54,411 |
| Texarkana | $54,819 |
Regional Salary in Arkansas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO | 310 | $76,160 | $36.61 | $89,050 | $33,460 |
| Fort Smith, AR-OK | 100 | $58,370 | $28.06 | $68,000 | $35,730 |
| Jonesboro, AR | 50 | $57,870 | $27.82 | $62,260 | $34,080 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | 710 | - NA - | - NA - | - NA - | - NA - |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a certified paralegal in Arkansas?
The length of time it takes to learn all the skills and information necessary to become a proficient and ethical paralegal can vary depending on the person.
Since there are no legal requirements, an individual will want to learn more about the requirements or prerequisites for entering a training program and the length of time it takes to complete that program with a passing grade.
When the program is completed, the individual may take the LCP exam to become nationally certified to work as a paralegal in any state, including Arkansas.
Do you need a national background check to enter a training program to become a paralegal in Arkansas?
Not all training programs or schools will require a national background check.
It is not a legal requirement in Arkansas to have a felony-free background.
However, some institutions require a clean background check to enroll in their training programs.
Be sure to inquire before enrollment to ensure your prerequisites are in order.
Individuals who forego formal training programs may be able to work as paralegals under the direct supervision of a licensed attorney for a period of years and apply for the chance to take the LCP exam to become nationally certified as a paralegal.
What are the prerequisites for entering a training program to become a paralegal in Arkansas?
The prerequisites for entering a paralegal training program or School course depend on the institution.
The admissions office or a campus counselor will clearly outline the prerequisites.
Be sure to have all requirements in order and submit any and all information, including a potential background check, before enrolling in the course.
Once the course is completed, the student should be well-informed and able to pass the LCP National certification exam for paralegals.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Paralegal
Paralegal Schools by State