Arizona doesn’t require formal education or certification to work as a paralegal, though employers increasingly prefer an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies. The state’s median paralegal salary is $61,630 annually, with steady job growth projected through 2034. Arizona offers accredited paralegal programs statewide, including online and on-campus options.
Sunshine isn’t the only thing Arizona has going for it. For the state’s paralegals, it’s also where careers are born, and opportunities abound.
Paralegal growth here is primarily tied to the state’s economy, which, according to Forbes, grew an astounding 54% between 2000 and 2021. An interest in the legal field, the proper education and credentials, and a go-getter personality that includes equal parts grit and determination are what you’ll need to become a paralegal in Arizona and open the door to paralegal career opportunities with corporate powerhouses like Tempe’s Avnet and Scottsdale’s RSC Holdings, as well as well-known regional law firms like Snell & Wilmer, Sacks Tierney, and Taft/Sherman & Howard.
Arizona continues to enjoy a diversified economy, with many companies choosing to relocate and expand their operations here. PetSmart, Banner Health, and Circle K are just some of the big corporate players that not only positively influence a growing economy but also employ many paralegals. With a strong skill set backed by a recognized paralegal degree, Arizona’s paralegals provide services to corporate law departments, nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, and law firms specializing in everything from litigation to personal injury to bankruptcy to estate law.
EA
Rio Salado College Paralegal Program (at time of interview)
Emily holds a B.S. in Justice Studies from Arizona State University’s Barrett Honors College and gained hands-on legal experience in Arizona Superior Court, federal court, and Glendale City Court before teaching legal writing and research in Rio Salado College’s paralegal program.
Interviewed for our faculty series. Not an author of this page.
Arizona Paralegal Education
While there are requirements for paralegals who choose to become legal document preparers, Arizona doesn’t require a minimum level of education or national certification to work as a paralegal. Thus, aspiring paralegals may choose to enter the profession through on-the-job training, education, or education plus national accreditation.
As the profession of the paralegal has become more widely accepted, it has become necessary for job candidates to distinguish themselves. One way to stand out from the competition is to complete coursework in paralegal studies.
Aspiring paralegals may choose to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies or to complete a paralegal certificate program. Once they’ve completed certification or gained sufficient work experience, they may choose to become a certified paralegal.
Many people interchange “certificated” and “certified.” It’s essential to understand the difference between the two and to clarify with a potential employer which type of paralegal they’re hoping to hire.
Arizona was the first state in the nation to allow paralegals to prepare legal documents without a lawyer’s supervision, though they’re limited to providing legal information, not legal advice.
Faculty Voice
“With curriculum focusing on legal writing, legal research, substantive law, legal ethics, time management, and litigation, our students graduate prepared and well-versed to take on legal tasks in most legal settings.
EA
Certification vs. Certificated Paralegals
Certificated paralegals have completed educational coursework in paralegal studies and thereby earned a certificate. Some certificate programs may require that the applicant has earned a degree in another subject and offer the certificate as a supplement to previous education. For example, suppose someone has earned a bachelor’s degree in another subject. In that case, they may complete a certificate program that offers coursework focused solely on the paralegal profession, without the usual general education requirements. Other programs may offer a stand-alone certificate. Since there’s such variation in programs, it’s important to research which are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) and which are ABA-approved paralegal programs.
National certification is offered by the national paralegal associations. Its purpose is to increase paralegals’ professionalism by certifying that they’ve met the national legal information requirement and are competent in their field.
Certified paralegals are those who have passed such an exam and received certification from a national paralegal association.
Two national associations currently certify individual paralegals. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers the CP credential. The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) offers the PACE/RP and PCCE/CRP credentials. NALS, the National Association for Legal Support Professionals, has placed its individual certification exams on a temporary hiatus while it revises them, so new candidates can’t currently register for its PP credential. Existing PP and CLP holders keep their credentials and can recertify.
Salary and Job Market Outlook
Arizona Paralegal Salary Overview
As of May 2025, paralegals in Arizona earned a median annual salary of $61,630, which is about $29.63 per hour. Paralegal compensation is almost evenly divided between hourly and salaried pay. NALA survey data found that 51% of paralegals were salaried, while about 49% were paid hourly. For comprehensive paralegal salary information across different specializations, the state’s paralegals earn a mean annual salary of $67,850, or $32.62 per hour, a bit above the median, reflecting a wage distribution that is wider at the top than at the bottom. Paralegals at the 10th percentile earn around $45,700 per year, while those at the 90th percentile earn $96,340 or more annually, about $46.32 per hour.
Specializing in a specific area of law and building experience over time are both associated with higher pay within Arizona’s paralegal salary range.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,700 | $21.97 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,840 | $23.48 |
| Median (50th) | $61,630 | $29.63 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,250 | $38.10 |
| 90th Percentile | $96,340 | $46.32 |
| Mean (Average) | $67,850 | $32.62 |
Job Market Trends
As of May 2025, Arizona had about 7,890 paralegal jobs. Between 2011 and 2021, the American Bar Association reported an 8.4% increase in the number of active lawyers in the state, and as of 2024, it reports a total of 15,885 Arizona resident lawyers. This type of dynamic growth will likely lead to increased demand for paralegals in the coming years.
ProjectionsCentral projects that Arizona’s paralegal workforce will grow from 6,100 to 6,620 jobs between 2024 and 2034, an increase of about 8.6%, with an average of roughly 710 annual job openings.
Paralegal Salary by City in Arizona
Phoenix and Yuma came out on top for offering competitive average salaries in Arizona. Phoenix is one of the key locations benefiting from Arizona’s status as a leading center for automotive research. General Motors, Google, and Uber are all testing self-driving vehicles in the Phoenix metro area. Paralegals with experience in paralegal specializations such as intellectual property and patent law are especially likely to benefit from this type of growth.
| Metropolitan Area | Average Annual Salary | 90th Percentile Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler | $70,030 ($33.67 hourly) | $97,670 ($46.96 hourly) |
| Yuma | $61,530 ($29.58 hourly) | $86,260 ($41.47 hourly) |
| Tucson | $59,640 ($28.68 hourly) | $90,940 ($43.72 hourly) |
| Flagstaff | $59,600 ($28.65 hourly) | $82,830 ($39.82 hourly) |
| Prescott Valley-Prescott | $57,870 ($27.82 hourly) | $79,440 ($38.19 hourly) |
| Lake Havasu City-Kingman | $55,830 ($26.84 hourly) | $78,020 ($37.51 hourly) |
| Sierra Vista-Douglas | $51,610 ($24.81 hourly) | $74,990 ($36.05 hourly) |
Arizona Paralegal Programs
The body of knowledge required to perform legal support services effectively can only be acquired through formal education in paralegal studies. As attorneys, corporations, and government agencies work within an increasingly complex legal framework, the level of responsibility they expect paralegals to assume has also increased. Law offices and other employers in Arizona have come to rely on paralegals with the kind of expertise that can only be gained through earning a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
Fresh out of high school and eager to begin your career as a paralegal? Already been holding it down and ruling the law firm with your paralegal mastery, but looking to take your career to the next level by specializing in a specific area of law?
Choosing a paralegal program that will help you reach your goals is a big decision. With such a large selection of options, we understand that making the decision can be totally overwhelming.
What we’ve done here is simplify things a bit by listing our top picks for schools with online programs or a campus presence in Arizona. Our selections are entirely based on the quality of the school and the programs it offers. That’s why our curated list only includes schools that have received regional or national accreditation. Many schools offer online paralegal certificate programs that provide flexibility for working professionals.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a 4-year public college with its main campus in Tempe and additional campuses in Cochise, Lake Havasu, Pima, Pinal, the Gila Valley, Tucson, Yavapai, Yuma, and Phoenix.
Paralegal Certificate – Online
Arizona Western College
Arizona Western College is a 2-year public institution with its campus located in Yuma.
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – On Campus
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies – On Campus
Bryan University
Bryan University is a 4-year private college located in Tempe, Arizona.
Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies and Litigation Technologies – Online
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies and Litigation Technologies – Online
Mohave Community College
Mohave Community College is a 2-year school located in Kingman.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Paralegal – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
National Paralegal College
National Paralegal College (NPC) is a distance learning institution. Its admissions office is located in Phoenix.
Associate of Paralegal Studies – Online
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
Phoenix College
Phoenix College is a 2-year public college located in Phoenix and is part of the Maricopa County Community College District.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate of Completion (CCL) – On-Campus (post-associate)
Pima Community College
Pima Community College is a 2-year public community college in Tucson.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
Paralegal Post-Degree Certificate – On-Campus (post-associate)
Rio Salado College
Rio Salado College is a 2-year public college located in Tempe. Rio Salado College is also a joint member of the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD).
Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal – Online
Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Paralegal – Online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
“We encourage all students to apply for the internship program because completing an internship truly enhances their resume and provides invaluable hands-on experience that bridges the gap between their studies and professional career.”
Emily Alice · Rio Salado College
What Our Faculty Interviews Reveal About Internships
Across our full paralegal faculty interview series, 37 of the 45 professors we spoke with described a program that offers students an internship, whether required, elective, or arranged case by case, with faculty or staff involved in helping students find a placement. Emily Alice’s comments above reflect a pattern seen nationally: schools increasingly treat the internship as the bridge between coursework and a paralegal’s first job.
Scottsdale Community College
Scottsdale Community College is a 2-year public institution located in Scottsdale.
Associate of Arts with an emphasis in Law and Policy – On Campus
University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is a 4-year public institution with a campus location in Tucson.
Bachelor of Arts in Law – On Campus, Online
Health Law for Health Professionals Graduate Certificate – Online
Regulatory Science Graduate Certificate – Online
Aging Law and Policy Graduate Certificate – Online
Health Information, Privacy, Compliance, and Data Security Graduate Certificate – Online
Yavapai College
Yavapai College is a 2-year public college located in Prescott.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Paralegal Studies – Online
Professional Paralegal Associations
Paralegals can choose from several professional associations in Arizona.
Arizona Paralegal Association (APA)
The Arizona Paralegal Association (APA), which is affiliated with NALA, was founded in 1977 and has grown to include over 400 members. One of its goals is to advance the paralegal profession by supporting professional development, encouraging high standards and ethics, advocating for the profession with local and state bar associations, and serving as a clearinghouse for information about legal assistants. The APA keeps its members up to date by offering “learn at lunch” seminars, annual Legal Seminars, and many online resources, including updates on federal rules.
Tucson Paralegal Association (TPA)
Tucson Paralegal Association (TPA) – An affiliate of NALA, the TPA offers four types of membership:
Active Membership – Eligibility requires meeting one of the following:
- Graduate from an ABA-approved paralegal studies program
- Graduate from an institutionally accredited paralegal studies program that is at least 60 semester credits
- Graduate from a paralegal studies program, plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Graduate from a bachelor’s degree program in any subject, plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Have at least three years of law-related experience that includes six months of in-house paralegal training
- Have at least two years of in-house training as a paralegal under the supervision of an attorney
- Passage of NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP)/Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) exam
Associate Membership – Eligibility requires meeting one of the following:
- Have seven years of law-related experience under the supervision of a member of the bar association
- Have the Professional Legal Secretary (PLS)/Certified Legal Professional (CLP) credential sponsored by the paralegal association NALS
Student Membership – Open to any student enrolled in good standing at any school who is pursuing legal studies
Affiliated Memberships:
- Society – Open to any local or state organization in harmony with the Arizona Paralegal Association or NALA
- Individual – Open to:
- Any currently employed paralegal whose field of expertise requires specialized training in an ancillary area
- Any member of the Bar Association who endorses the concept of paralegals/legal assistants
- Any member of the educational field who supports the idea of paralegals/legal assistants
Maricopa County Association of Paralegals (MCAP)
Maricopa County Association of Paralegals (MCAP) (formerly Legal Assistants of Metropolitan Phoenix (LAMP)) – Affiliated with the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), the MCAP offers three levels of membership:
- Active
- Associate
- Student
NALS of Tucson and Southern Arizona
NALS of Tucson and Southern Arizona – A NALS affiliate, membership is offered on these levels:
- Individual – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature
- Associate – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature, such as educators, judges, and attorneys
- Students – Open to students taking at least nine semester credits from a legal-related program offered by an accredited school
- Retired – Open to those who have been a NALS-affiliated member for at least five years before retirement
- Life – Open to qualified individual members
- International – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature who reside outside the US
NALS of Phoenix
NALS of Phoenix – A NALS affiliate, this organization offers these levels of membership:
- Individual – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature
- Associate – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature such as educators, judges, and attorneys
- Students – Open to students taking at least nine semester credits from a legal-related program offered by an accredited school
- Retired – Open to those who have been a NALS-affiliated member for at least five years before retirement
- Life – Open to qualified individual members
- International – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature who reside outside the US
Arizona Association of Independent Paralegals (AAIP)
The Arizona Association of Independent Paralegals (AAIP) is comprised mainly of paralegals who are also legal document preparers. Their mission is focused outwardly on providing affordable legal services to Arizona residents and protecting access to those rights, including advocating for the continued employment of legal document preparers. They help interested people become court document preparers by offering exam preparation, continuing education, seminars, and classes.
Major Law Firms in Arizona
Large law firms are often large employers of paralegals. Most of these firms are located in Arizona’s larger cities, like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson.
- Snell & Wilmer LLP
- Lewis Roca
- Fennemore Craig, P.C.
- The Kelly Law Firm, L.L.C.
- Quarles & Brady
- Greenberg Traurig, P.A.
- Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
- Steptoe & Johnson
- Perkins Coie
Important Contacts for Arizona Paralegals
- Arizona Judicial Branch – Information about the Legal Document Preparer Program
- Arizona Paralegal Association, affiliated with NALA
- Arizona Association of Independent Paralegals
- Arizona Bar Association
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Arizona require paralegals to be certified?
No, Arizona doesn’t require paralegals to hold formal education credentials or national certification to work in the field. Employers increasingly prefer candidates with associate or bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies, but it’s not a legal requirement. Arizona does have specific requirements for legal document preparers, which is a separate designation.
What’s the difference between a certificated and certified paralegal in Arizona?
A certificated paralegal has completed an educational certificate program in paralegal studies from a college or university. A certified paralegal has passed a national certification exam, currently the CP from NALA or the PACE/RP or PCCE/CRP from NFPA. Many employers prefer certified paralegals because the credential demonstrates mastery of legal knowledge and professional competence.
How much do paralegals make in Arizona?
As of May 2025, the median paralegal salary in Arizona is $61,630 annually or $29.63 per hour. Paralegals at the 10th percentile earn around $45,700, while those at the 90th percentile earn $96,340 or more. Salaries vary by location, with the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metro area offering the highest average at $70,030 annually.
Can I work as a paralegal in Arizona with just on-the-job training?
Yes, it’s legally possible to work as a paralegal in Arizona with only on-the-job training since the state doesn’t mandate formal education. Arizona was the first state to allow paralegals to work without direct attorney supervision in specific capacities. However, most employers now prefer or require candidates to have completed a formal paralegal education program to ensure they have the necessary knowledge and skills.
Are online paralegal programs accepted in Arizona?
Yes, online paralegal programs are widely accepted in Arizona. Several Arizona colleges offer fully online paralegal degrees and certificates, including Arizona State University, Mohave Community College, Bryan University, and Rio Salado College. Choose programs that are regionally accredited and, ideally, ABA-approved to ensure employer recognition.
What is a legal document preparer in Arizona?
Arizona was the first state to allow paralegals to become legal document preparers who can work independently of attorney supervision. Legal document preparers can help people prepare legal documents, but cannot provide legal advice. This designation requires specific certification through the Arizona Supreme Court and allows paralegals to offer services directly to the public for specific legal matters.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Arizona?
The timeline depends on your educational path. An associate degree in paralegal studies typically takes two years of full-time study, while a bachelor’s degree requires four years. Certificate programs can be completed in as little as a few months to one year. If you pursue national certification after completing your education, the exam preparation and testing process can add several months.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in Arizona?
The job outlook for paralegals in Arizona is strong. ProjectionsCentral projects the state’s paralegal workforce will grow from 6,100 to 6,620 jobs between 2024 and 2034, an increase of about 8.6%, with roughly 710 average annual job openings. Arizona’s growing economy and expanding legal sector both contribute to steady demand for qualified paralegals across various legal specializations.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona doesn’t require formal education or certification for paralegals, but employers strongly prefer candidates with degrees
- The median paralegal salary in Arizona is $61,630 annually, with pay ranging up to $96,340 or more at the higher end of the distribution
- Arizona is home to accredited paralegal programs across the state, including online and on-campus options
- ProjectionsCentral projects about 710 annual paralegal job openings in Arizona through 2034
- Arizona was the first state to allow paralegals to work as legal document preparers without attorney supervision
- The Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler metro area offers the highest average paralegal salaries in the state, at $70,030 annually
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Arizona?
Explore accredited paralegal programs and take the first step toward a rewarding legal career in the Grand Canyon State.
May 2025 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures for Paralegals and Legal Assistants. Long-term 2024-34 job growth projections from the US Department of Labor-sponsored resource, ProjectionsCentral. Figures reflect city, state, and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2026.
