Author Archives: Megan Carter

About Megan Carter

Megan L. Carter, ACP, has worked as a senior litigation paralegal for 14 years in mid-sized firms, handling complex commercial and employment disputes. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies from a regionally accredited community college. She holds the Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) credential in Discovery from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). Megan regularly guest-lectures at state paralegal association continuing-legal-education events. She has contributed course modules to online paralegal certificate programs used by several community colleges. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family and two rescue dogs.
Professional legal transcriptionist working in modern home office with organized shelving, wearing business attire and glasses, representing remote legal career opportunities

How to Become a Legal Transcriptionist [2025 Complete Guide]

Quick Answer Legal transcriptionists convert recorded legal proceedings into accurate written documents, typically working from home. No formal degree is required, though certificate programs (3-6 months) and CET certification strengthen employability. Entry-level professionals earn $25,000- $35,000 annually, while experienced transcriptionists …

Legal professionals collaborating on case documents in modern law office with laptop and natural lighting

How to Become a Legal Assistant in 2026

Quick Answer Legal assistants provide administrative support in law firms and legal departments, handling tasks like scheduling, document preparation, and client communication. You can become a legal assistant through certificate programs, on-the-job training, or by earning professional certification, such as …

Professional paralegal reviewing legal documents at organized office desk with laptop and file storage

Intellectual Property Paralegal Career Guide 2026

Quick Answer Intellectual property paralegals specialize in patent, trademark, and copyright law. According to 2024 BLS data, paralegals generally earn a median salary of $61,010 (the BLS does not track IP specialist salaries separately, though IP paralegals often earn above …

Professional paralegal working efficiently in modern law office demonstrating value-based billing practices

How Alternative Fee Arrangements Affect Paralegal Careers in 2026

Quick Answer Alternative fee arrangements (AFAs) are reshaping paralegal careers by shifting focus from billable hours to value-based outcomes. While these changes reduce traditional time tracking, they create opportunities for paralegals to demonstrate specialized expertise, improve efficiency, and potentially increase …