Many people confuse the positions of lawyer and paralegal. While similar, they are very different roles and each have differing levels of expertise. For those who would like to work within the legal profession but lack the experience or qualifications, a paralegal position may be the perfect way in. It is possible to begin your career with minimal training and a low level of responsibility. But for anyone who continues with their legal education while they work it is possible to advance in both status and responsibility - and therefore in salary expectation. For those legal assistants with the commitment to pursue their career the monetary rewards are attainable.