Job: Legal Secretary / Legal Aid (United States)

I believe that job security is an important thing to have because it is what supports my family. As long as I do the best I can do within my job, to the best of my ability and show up every day, I believe that I will continue to stay within my job. Unfortunately, job security is not a sure thing as anything could happen at any time, so be prepared as well that way the "shock" of having to possibly look for a new job is not so overwhelming, have your ducks lined and always be prepared to look out for "you" because no one else will be doing that for you.

I set a precedent the first time I had to ask for a raise. Previous raises had come pretty much automatically until the about the 6 year mark. I needed life insurance so I drew up a proposal showing a 7% raise compared to 3% raise plus quarterly life insurance premium payments. They jumped at the 3%, of course, but I got an added benefit. It was not an elaborate proposal just three columns: a current column (with date of last raise as a header to show them a raise was due), and two more columns with the percentage used as a header. I left this on their desks in the evening and the next morning asked if they had seen it and what did they think? Now I use this approach each time.

I worked for a mid-size law firm for two very busy female litigators. I would usually arrive 1/2 hour early in the morning and begin work. My work load was so heavy, I felt guilty about taking a lunch hour, so I usually sat at my desk and devoured a sandwich while continuing to work. I would always complete any job assignments each day if possible, even if it meant staying over to do so. I volunteered for overtime to help other secretaries along with working overtime for my own attorneys.

The day before my six month probationary period was over, I was fired. I was told it was because of poor attendance. I did miss time from work due to illness and emergencies, but I did not exceed the time allowed for that. Thus, I did not receive any vacation time that I had accrued and was not able to collect any unemployment benefits. I have since used my two prior attorneys as references since they both felt I was let go wrongfully.

Been fired or let go from several jobs due to personal issues

I was recently hired by a wonderful company. The offer was made 10 minutes after my interview(s). The most important advice I can give is to be yourself, listen more and talk less. Another good tip is to be ready with at least one question such as "What special talents would make the best contribution to this position? Finally, dress for success. Even though most offices are business casual, do not dress casually for the interview.

I have being a legal secretary for my employer for 9 years and I only make $14.50 an hour. I want to asked him for a better pay, but I do not know of how to ask for this?

On the Outer Banks of North Carolina the payscale is poor. An average experienced legal secertary can expect to be hired at between $12 and $15 an hour, with paid vacation up to 18 days, and health benefits deducted from the wages. Salaries generally are poor to poverty level on the Outer Banks unless you own the business. There are no labor unions in North Carolina.