Best Paralegal Schools in Montana

If you're looking to become a paralegal in Montana, choosing the right school is the first step. A solid education will prepare you for the legal skills you'll need, from research to document drafting. Montana has quality programs that can get you into the field with the right training.

Here's what you need to know to get started.

How to Become a Paralegal in Montana

Montana has no formal state licensing requirement for paralegals. Most employers look for one of two things:

• An associate's or bachelor's degree in paralegal studies.
• A degree in another field plus a paralegal certificate.

Many paralegals in Montana complete an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved program. These are recognized for meeting professional training standards.

The ABA recommends that paralegal programs include legal research, ethics, substantive law, and extensive writing assignments.
Source: American Bar Association

Steps to Start Your Paralegal Career

1. Research programs to find one that fits your location, budget, and career goals.
2. Check for ABA approval if you want to meet national practice standards.
3. Complete your education, focusing on research, writing, and legal software skills.
4. Consider certification from groups like NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants) to stand out to employers.
5. Apply for entry-level roles such as legal assistant or paralegal in law firms, courts, or corporate offices.

Best Paralegal Programs in Montana

Below are some of the top options in the state. Always contact the school directly for up-to-date admissions and tuition information.

1. University of Providence - Paralegal Studies

• Location: Great Falls, MT
• Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies, Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
• Format: On-campus and online
• Notes: ABA-approved program with a strong general education foundation alongside specialized law courses.

2. University of Montana - Missoula College

• Location: Missoula, MT
• Degrees Offered: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
• Format: On-campus
• Notes: Focuses on practical legal skills with access to local internships.

3. Flathead Valley Community College

• Location: Kalispell, MT
• Program: Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate and AAS Degree
• Format: On-campus
• Notes: Offers small class sizes and regional law office connections.

4. Helena College

• Location: Helena, MT
• Program: Associate of Applied Science in Legal Studies
• Format: On-campus
• Notes: Prepares students for work in legal support roles in government and private sectors.

Montana Paralegal Program Comparison Table

Why ABA Approval Matters

Choosing an ABA-approved program isn't legally required, but it can:

• Improve your job prospects.
• Create a smoother path if you move to another state.
• Help you qualify for certain certifications.

Only the University of Providence currently offers an ABA-approved paralegal program in Montana.

Paralegal Certification Options

After school, you may want to earn national certification. This is voluntary in Montana but can be a career boost.

Well-known options include:

• CP (Certified Paralegal) - Offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants.
• RP (Registered Paralegal) - Offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations.
• PP (Professional Paralegal) - Offered by NALS, the association for legal professionals.

Skills Employers Look For

Montana law offices and agencies often want candidates who are:

• Strong in legal writing and proofreading.
• Proficient in legal research databases like Westlaw or Lexis.
• Skilled at organizing evidence and preparing trial documents.
• Familiar with Montana court filing procedures.

These skills can be developed during your schooling and through internships.

Job Settings for Montana Paralegals

Paralegals in Montana work in:

• Private law firms
• Corporate legal departments
• Government agencies
• Nonprofit organizations
• Court systems

Your choice of program may influence which opportunities are easiest to access. For example, schools with strong internship pipelines into government agencies may open doors to public sector work.

Choosing the Right School

When comparing programs, consider the following:

• Location and commute if attending in person.
• Format (campus, online, or hybrid).
• ABA approval status.
• Internship opportunities and employer connections.
• Credit transfer policies if you may pursue further education.

Make a short list of programs and reach out to admissions counselors to confirm details. Ask about job placement rates, faculty experience, and typical internship partners.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Getting your start as a paralegal in Montana comes down to finding the right training and building the core skills employers need. Start by reviewing your options, focusing on schools that match your goals and budget. If possible, choose an ABA-approved program to give yourself maximum flexibility. Once enrolled, take full advantage of internship and networking opportunities. This will help you move smoothly from school to your first legal job.

Your next step is simple: contact the schools on this list, review their admissions requirements, and submit your application. With the right program, you can be job-ready in as little as two years.

Sources:
American Bar Association - Paralegal Education
O*NET Online - Paralegals and Legal Assistants

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