The Future of Paralegals: AI, Growth, and Excellence The Professionals Podcast

We're thrilled to be joined by today's special guest, Toni Marsh, the Paralegal Studies program at George Washington University's College of Professional Studies.

In this episode, Toni shares his remarkable journey into the paralegal profession, spanning over three decades. From starting as an adjunct faculty member while working as a public defender to eventually designing and launching paralegal education programs worldwide, Toni's story is truly inspiring.

But what exactly is a paralegal, and how has the profession evolved? Toni explains how paralegals have transitioned from performing administrative tasks to taking on a more significant role in the legal system. With formal education and specialized training, paralegals are now tackling challenging and substantive work, making them indispensable in the field.

One of the highlights of this episode is Toni's fascinating tale of how she became involved in building an entire paralegal education system in Tanzania. Her journey from a phone call from the State Department to designing a curriculum that is now used nationwide in Tanzania showcases the social impact and global opportunities that a career in paralegal studies can offer.

Toni also delves into the unique master's program at George Washington University, the only one of its kind in the country. With an emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical skills, this program equips students with the tools they need to excel in the paralegal profession.

As the discussion continues, the Amanda, Luke, and Toni explore the role of AI in the paralegal world. Toni dispels the notion that AI will replace paralegals, emphasizing that those who can effectively utilize AI will thrive in the profession. AI is viewed as a powerful tool that enhances productivity, and students are encouraged to embrace it as part of their education.

Toni also offers valuable insights into the qualities that make an excellent paralegal, such as being detail-oriented, organized, and a strong communicator. She highlights the benefits of choosing a paralegal career over becoming a lawyer, including a shorter education timeline, lower costs, and an excellent work-life balance.

In the world of paralegal studies, the future looks promising. The field is experiencing robust growth, and Toni predicts that it will only continue to expand. Paralegals are in high demand, and their versatile skill set is valuable in various legal settings. With AI becoming more integrated into the profession, paralegals who adapt and embrace technology will be well-positioned for success.

Finally, Toni discusses the strong network of GW paralegal alumni, who remain closely connected and often return to recruit GW graduates for prestigious positions. The Honor Society, Lambda Epsilon Chi (Lex), recognizes the top-performing students and provides them with an excellent addition to their resumes.

In closing, this episode of the Professionals Podcast sheds light on the dynamic and evolving world of paralegal studies. Toni Marsh's passion for the field and his dedication to educating the next generation of paralegals are evident throughout the conversation, making it a must-listen for anyone considering a career in this exciting profession. Join us for this enlightening episode as we uncover the endless possibilities that await paralegal professionals.