Paralegal Specialist (ARMY)

Overview

As a Paralegal Specialist, you’ll be an integral part of the U.S. Army’s legal system. You’ll be expected to provide legal and administrative support in all areas of criminal law, family law, international law, civil and administrative law, contract law, and fiscal law. You’ll assist judges, Army lawyers, and unit commanders with legal matters and judicial work.

Job Duties

• Provide paralegal support to unit commanders and the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate.
• Provide legal documents in courts‑martial, nonjudicial punishments and other military justice matters.
• Prepare line of duty determinations, separation board proceedings and other administrative law matters.
• Provide assistance in the family law arena with matters such as powers of attorney, wills and separation decrees.

Requirements

• Be between the ages of 17–40.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Submit to background and medical screening.
• Receive a passing score on the ASVAB.

Training

Job training for a Paralegal Specialist requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 10 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on‑the‑job instruction.

• Legal terminology and research techniques
• Preparation of legal documents
• Army National Guard judicial process
• Interviewing witnesses

Helpful Skills

• Ability to supervise those in a command.
• Providing technical guidance to subordinates.
• Maintaining law/administrative library.
• Monitoring and reviewing actions for accuracy.

Future Civilian Careers

• Legal assistant
• Court clerk

Key Healthcare Benefits

• TRICARE Health Plan: medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
• No‑Cost Healthcare: active‑duty members receive medical and dental care at no cost; families can receive services at little or no cost.
• Comprehensive Dental Care: annual check‑ups, cleanings, and necessary treatments.
• Vision Coverage: routine eye examinations and discounts on eyewear or corrective surgery.
• Health & Wellness Programs: preventive health programs, counseling services, fitness resources, and more.
• Maternity and Paternity Benefits: prenatal, labor, and postnatal care; maternity and paternity leave.
• Long‑term Care: resources and programs for long‑term health needs or disabilities.
• Mental Health Services: counseling, therapy, and other mental health resources.
• Specialized Medical Training: role‑specific medical training to handle a variety of health situations.

Why the U.S. Army

• Professional Growth: continued learning, training, and career advancement opportunities.
• Diverse Opportunities: a range of roles from combat medic specialists to medical officers.
• Community: a tight‑knit community that prioritizes camaraderie, service, and mutual support.