In this episode of Paralegals on Fire, Ann Pearson answers a question submitted in a new Paralegal Q&A series from an email subscriber.
This comes from a seasoned litigation paralegal with nearly four decades of experience who’s ready for a change but not quite ready to retire. Drawing from her own background and insights from the industry, Ann offers practical advice on career paths that allow experienced paralegals to leverage their skills while achieving better work-life balance.
Whether you’re a paralegal with decades of experience or simply exploring new professional avenues, this episode provides actionable guidance on how to parlay your legal expertise into new roles that fit your evolving career goals.
The Paralegal Question:
Hi Ann. This is an anonymous question. I’m in my sixties and have been a paralegal for almost 38 years in litigation and defense in large firms. I’m well-versed with eDiscovery platforms and now AI (thanks to you). I’m fluent in Excel, PowerPoint, and Case Notebook. I’m not afraid of technology. I have complex document management, expert deposition prep, and jury trial experience.
I make a good salary and substantial overtime. While I embrace being a workaholic, there is little work-life balance and no reward other than more work.
I’m not ready to retire, but don’t want to continue putting in 50 to 60 hours a week with a commute on top of that.
I do not want to be a hot-seater during trial. Doing it during a mock trial was extremely stressful. Sales is not my strong suit.
I’m exceptionally detail-oriented and used to working under pressure.
How can I parlay my experiences beyond a big law firm? Where do I go from here?
Listen to the episode to hear what Ann recommends to this listener!
👉 Want to ask a question? Use the link below to join the podcast mailing list and get on the VIP list to ask your question.
Want to be the first to know when the next podcast episode is released?
🎧 Get added to our podcast mailing list here.
Support the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show
Did you get a tip from today’s episode to help you fast-track your paralegal career?
Click here to Give the show a review, and let me know what you enjoy most about the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show. I’ll be reading every one of them! –Ann Pearson
Free Strategy Guidebook for
New Litigation Paralegals
Are you ready to fast-track your litigation paralegal career?!
Our free guidebook reveals three powerful strategies that will set you up for success in your journey. If you’re ready to seize this opportunity and thrive as a litigation paralegal, sign up below, and get started now!
