Becoming a paralegal can be an excellent career choice for those wanting to enter the legal field relatively quickly. You can start with an associate’s degree (typically 2 years full-time) or a certificate program (8-12 months if you already have a bachelor’s degree). The 2024 median salary is $61,010 nationally, though this varies by location and employer. Unlike attorneys, paralegals typically don’t need a law degree or to pass the bar exam in most jurisdictions.
For those who wish to enter the legal field, becoming a paralegal can be a fantastic way to get your feet wet in the world of law, whether with the goal of eventually pursuing the path of an attorney or to develop a thriving paralegal career in its own right. The role of a paralegal offers a relatively expedient way to jump into the legal profession, providing experience and exposure that can set you on a career path in the world of law.
This guide is for those wondering, “Should I become a paralegal?” Because the paralegal profession offers promising opportunities for people of various backgrounds, the answer may well be yes for many aspiring legal professionals.
However, there are many types of paralegals and many ways to pursue your first work experiences in the field. Understanding what the career truly entails can help you avoid later thinking, “Here’s what I wish I knew before becoming a paralegal.”
To learn more about the career of a paralegal, from job responsibilities to education and certification requirements to salary information, read on. If you know you intend to become a paralegal and wish to find the degree or certification program that’s right for you, visit our homepage.
What Does a Paralegal Do?
Most working attorneys would agree that paralegals play an indispensable role on legal teams, helping lawyers complete difficult and arduous tasks so they can focus on the most skilled aspects of their jobs. Paralegals are often the backbone of efficient legal operations, handling crucial work that keeps cases moving forward.
The specific responsibilities of paralegals can vary greatly depending on where you’re working, your area of specialty, your experience level, and the size of the organization. Not every paralegal performs all of these tasks, but common responsibilities can include:
- Helping to assemble the facts of a case, which can lead to investigative discoveries
- Case preparation assistance, including tracking down and preparing evidence to submit to the court
- Administrative support, organizing important print and digital documents
- Research assistance on laws and regulations
- Drafting documents, including contracts and mortgage,s as well as attorney-client correspondence
- Filing legal documents with the court or opposing counsel during trial periods
- Assistance in procuring affidavits and other formal statements for court cases
- Creating reports to help lawyers prepare for cases
- Client communication and intake interviews
- Maintaining case management systems and deadlines
The job of a paralegal is multifaceted, drawing from a variety of communication, organization, investigation, and research skills. Many paralegals start in more generalist or support roles and develop specializations as they gain experience.
If these responsibilities appeal to you, the paralegal career path may be worth exploring.
Entry-Level Paralegal Jobs
Many are drawn to become paralegals because entry-level positions are available in many markets. These roles can provide valuable experience in the legal field, helping you understand where your talents lie and develop professional skills.
Common entry-level paralegal and legal support positions include:
- Legal secretary or office assistant: Support attorneys with administrative tasks, document preparation, and client communication
- Municipal court administrative assistant: Work directly in court systems, managing filings and public records
- File clerk with a law firm or courthouse: Organize and maintain case files, both physical and digital
- Document review specialist: Analyze documents for litigation or compliance purposes
- Runner of privileged and hard copy documents: Handle secure delivery of sensitive legal materials
To learn more about entry-level paralegal career options and how to find your first job opportunity as a paralegal, visit our Guide to Entry-Level Paralegal Jobs.
What Education Do I Need to Become a Paralegal?
There’s good news for those wondering, “Should I become a paralegal?” People from a variety of different paths and backgrounds can pursue the paralegal profession, with entry-level jobs available for people at a range of skill levels in many markets.
This flexibility is one of the appealing aspects of the paralegal profession, though educational requirements vary by employer and jurisdiction. Read on to learn more about degree requirements, certification opportunities, and internships to help give you experience in the field of law.
Degree Requirements
Unlike most other paths through the legal profession, paralegals typically don’t need to hold a graduate degree or pass a bar exam in most jurisdictions. This makes the paralegal career path significantly more accessible than becoming an attorney.
The minimum level of education typically required for many paralegal positions is an associate’s degree. One common option for students who don’t yet hold any college degree is an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies.
Many of these programs are approved by the American Bar Association, though ABA approval isn’t required in all jurisdictions. Employers often prefer graduates from ABA-approved programs.
While there are opportunities available for paralegals who hold an associate’s degree, numerous employers seek candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree. There are not many devoted programs in Paralegal Studies at the bachelor’s level.
Because so many people pursue paralegal work as a career transition, there’s typically no expectation that paralegals will hold a degree in any particular subject. Those who hold bachelor’s degrees in various fields are often encouraged to receive post-bachelor’s paralegal certification.
Entry-Level Paralegal Certification
Those who hold bachelor’s degrees often pursue a post-bachelor’s paralegal certificate (sometimes called a post-baccalaureate certificate). Many paralegal certificate programs are available online and can take several months to complete, helping you prepare for the responsibilities of paralegal work.
Like associate degree programs, many certificate programs seek or hold ABA approval, though this varies by program and isn’t universally required.
Some of the nationally recognized paralegal credentials include:
- NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants) – Certified Paralegal (CP): Nationally recognized credential requiring passing a comprehensive exam covering legal research, ethics, and substantive law
- NFPA (National Federation of Paralegal Associations) – Paralegal CORE Competency Exam (PCCE): Tests fundamental paralegal competencies and leads to the Paralegal CORE Registered (RP) credential
- NALS (Association for Legal Professionals) – Professional Paralegal (PP): Focuses on practical legal skills and office procedures
These certifications culminate in examinations that demonstrate your competency in the field and readiness to begin work as a paralegal. Some programs help you develop areas of specialty so those with specific career interests can enter the field with focused knowledge.
If you’re planning on pursuing paralegal certification, be sure you understand the requirements and preferences of employers in your state or region, as these can vary.
Internships
While completing their paralegal certification or degree program, many students also seek internships that increase their exposure to the day-to-day work of a legal team and add practical experience to their resume.
Sometimes these opportunities are provided or facilitated by educational programs, while in other cases, they require students to be proactive in networking and job searching. Many legal professionals would emphasize the value of internship experience when starting a paralegal career.
Internships provide valuable networking opportunities and can sometimes lead to full-time employment offers. Many law firms use their internship programs as a pipeline for hiring new paralegals.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Paralegal?
One appealing aspect of the paralegal career is that it can offer a relatively quick entry into the legal field compared to other legal professions, which can often take many years to complete.
The time required to enter the workforce as a paralegal depends largely on your educational background and whether you attend full-time or part-time. Timelines can also vary based on program format (online, hybrid, or in-person) and individual course loads.
| Education Path | Typical Time to Complete | Prerequisites | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies | 2 years (full-time); 3-4 years (part-time) | High school diploma or GED | Those starting without a college degree |
| Post-Bachelor’s Certificate | 8-12 months (full-time); up to 2 years (part-time) | Bachelor’s degree in any field | Career changers with existing degrees |
| Bachelor’s Degree + Paralegal Coursework | 4 years (full-time) | High school diploma or GED | Traditional college students planning long-term legal careers |
| On-the-Job Training (No Formal Degree) | 6-12 months to basic proficiency | Legal secretary or administrative experience (varies by employer) | Those already working in law offices seeking advancement |
Your time in a degree or certification program also provides opportunities to begin networking and laying the groundwork for potential job opportunities after graduation. Many professionals recommend being proactive about networking throughout your education.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Paralegal?
Associate’s degree programs and certification programs typically have costs that, while often lower than bachelor’s degree programs, can still represent a significant investment. If cost concerns make you wonder, “Should I become a paralegal?,” consider that paralegal education can position you to pursue paid work relatively quickly after graduation.
While some people enter paralegal work through on-the-job training without formal certification, those who complete degrees and certificates often qualify for more positions and may command higher starting salaries, potentially making formal education a sound long-term investment in many cases.
The return on investment for paralegal education can be favorable in many markets. With starting salaries often ranging from $39,710 to $48,190 annually (10th to 25th percentile nationally), graduates in stable job markets may recoup their educational costs within several years while building valuable career experience.
What Is the Average Paralegal Salary?
According to 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national median annual salary for paralegals and legal assistants is $61,010.
However, it’s important to note that salary varies significantly based on several factors, including experience, location, employer size, practice area, and local cost of living. National averages may not reflect conditions in your specific area.
National paralegal salary breakdown for 2024:
- Mean (average) salary: $66,510 per year
- Median salary: $61,010 per year
- Entry-level range (10th percentile): $39,710 per year
- Lower-mid range (25th percentile): $48,190 per year
- Upper-mid range (75th percentile): $78,280 per year
- High-end range (90th percentile): $98,990 per year
Salary by Industry
Compensation can vary across different employment sectors. Federal government positions and finance sectors have historically offered higher compensation in many markets, while local government and some legal services firms may pay closer to or below the national median.
| Industry | Typical Salary Range | Common Job Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Government | Often $65,000-$75,000+ (varies by grade level) | Generally good benefits, job security, and regular hours |
| Finance and Insurance | Often $60,000-$70,000+ | Corporate law focus, contract review, compliance work |
| Legal Services (Law Firms) | $50,000-$70,000+ (highly variable by firm size and market) | Varied practice areas, litigation support, and client interaction |
| State Government | Often $50,000-$65,000 | Public service focus, often good pension benefits |
| Local Government | Often $45,000-$60,000 | Municipal law, zoning, public records management |
Geographic Salary Variations
Geographic location significantly impacts paralegal compensation. According to BLS data, the states with the highest median wages for paralegals tend to be:
- Washington, D.C.: $83,420 median annual wage
- Washington State: $71,900 median annual wage
- California: $70,290 median annual wage
- Massachusetts: $66,820 median annual wage
- New Jersey: $65,690 median annual wage
These higher wages often correspond with higher costs of living in these areas. When considering job opportunities, it’s important to research both salary ranges and living costs in your target location.
We strongly recommend checking local job boards, salary surveys, and state paralegal associations for more accurate information about compensation in your specific area.
Job Outlook
According to recent Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, paralegal employment is expected to see modest growth in the coming decade. The most recent projections suggest steady demand with approximately 39,300 job openings annually when accounting for both new positions and replacement needs.
However, job outlook can vary significantly by region and practice area. Some markets may see stronger growth, while others may experience limited opportunities. Local economic conditions, changes in legal services delivery, and technological developments can all impact employment prospects.
For more detailed information on paralegal salaries and regional variations, visit our Guide to Paralegal Salaries. For more information about employment trends, visit our article Paralegal Job Outlook.
The Lifestyle of a Paralegal
Paralegals often work hard and take pride in their contributions to legal teams. The role requires diligence and attention to detail, as paralegals are frequently tasked with assignments that ensure important case-related work proceeds smoothly.
Daily Work Environment
Most paralegals work in professional office settings, whether in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. The work environment is typically business professional, with expectations for professional dress and conduct.
Work conditions can vary by employer type and size. Some paralegals work in fast-paced litigation firms, while others maintain steadier schedules in corporate or government settings.
Work Schedule and Hours
Paralegals typically work full-time hours, generally around 40 hours per week during normal business hours. However, the schedule can vary depending on your practice area and employer:
- Litigation paralegals: May experience longer hours as trial dates approach, sometimes including evenings and occasional weekends
- Corporate paralegals: Often have more predictable schedules with occasional deadline-driven overtime
- Government paralegals: Generally maintain more consistent schedules with minimal overtime in many positions
- Real estate paralegals: May need to accommodate client schedules, sometimes including evening closings
Paralegals who contribute to successful case outcomes often experience satisfaction from knowing their work helped achieve positive results for clients.
Work Variety and Specialization
Some paralegals perform relatively consistent duties in specialized roles, while others work in varied assignments across different legal areas. Many professionals start in more general support positions and develop specializations as they gain experience and identify areas of interest.
When planning your paralegal career path, consider which type of work environment and variety level would be most satisfying for you personally.
Stress Levels and Job Satisfaction
The paralegal profession can involve moderate to high stress levels in certain settings, primarily driven by deadlines, detail requirements, and the high-stakes nature of legal work. Paralegals often manage multiple cases simultaneously and must track critical filing deadlines while maintaining accuracy.
Despite these challenges, many paralegals report good job satisfaction, often citing:
- Intellectual engagement with complex legal issues
- Clear contribution to case outcomes and client service
- Opportunities for learning and professional development
- Team-oriented work environment with attorney collaboration
- Relatively stable employment in many markets
Remote Work Opportunities
Remote work options for paralegals have expanded in many organizations since 2020, though availability varies significantly by employer, practice area, and jurisdiction. Some law firms and corporate legal departments now offer hybrid arrangements where paralegals spend some days working remotely.
Fully remote paralegal positions exist in some markets, particularly with certain corporate legal departments and virtual law firms. However, many positions still require regular in-office presence for meetings, court filings, and client consultations.
If remote work is important to you, research specific employer policies and regional availability, as this varies considerably across the legal industry.
Paralegal vs. Related Legal Careers
Understanding how the paralegal role compares to related legal careers can help you make an informed decision about your career path. Keep in mind that salaries and requirements can vary by location and employer.
| Role | Typical Education | National Median Salary (Approximate) | Common Responsibilities | Typical Career Progression |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paralegal | Associate’s degree or certificate (1-2 years) | $61,010 (varies by location) | Legal research, case preparation, document drafting, client communication (varies by role) | Senior Paralegal, Paralegal Manager, Legal Operations roles (varies by employer) |
| Legal Assistant | High school diploma, some college helpful | $45,000-$52,000 (varies widely) | Administrative support, scheduling, file management, basic document preparation | Senior Legal Assistant, Office Manager, advancement to Paralegal possible |
| Legal Secretary | High school diploma, secretarial training | $48,300 (varies by location) | Typing, scheduling, client reception, document formatting, and general office support | Executive Legal Secretary, Legal Office Administrator |
| Attorney | Bachelor’s + law school (7 years total) + bar exam | $135,740 (varies significantly by practice area) | Legal representation, court appearances, client counsel, case strategy, and giving legal advice | Associate, Senior Associate, Partner, General Counsel, Judge (highly variable) |
| Court Reporter | Associate’s degree or certificate (2 years) | $63,940 (varies by location and specialization) | Verbatim transcription of legal proceedings, depositions, and the creating of official records | Official Court Reporter, Freelance Reporter, CART Provider |
For more detailed information about the differences between these roles, visit our article comparing paralegals and legal assistants.
Pros and Cons of Becoming a Paralegal
Every career has advantages and challenges. Here’s an honest assessment of what paralegals commonly experience, though individual experiences will vary based on employer, practice area, and location.
| Potential Advantages | Potential Challenges |
|---|---|
| Relatively quick entry: Can start working in 8 months to 2 years in many programs, compared to 7+ years for attorneys | Career ceiling considerations: Advancement opportunities exist, but may be more limited compared to the attorney track |
| No law school requirement: Avoid extensive student loan debt and additional years of graduate education | Practice limitations: Cannot give legal advice, represent clients in most court proceedings, or set legal fees |
| Steady employment in many markets: Legal services remain in demand across various sectors | High detail requirements: Errors in legal documents can have serious consequences and create stress |
| Competitive compensation: National median of $61,010, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in many markets | Deadline pressure: Court filing deadlines are strict and non-negotiable, which can create time pressure |
| Diverse specialization options: Opportunities in litigation, corporate law, real estate, family law, intellectual property, and other areas | Occasional long hours: Some positions require overtime during trial preparation or major transactions |
| Intellectual engagement: Work with complex legal issues and contribute meaningfully to case outcomes | Support role dynamics: Work is done under attorney supervision, which may not suit everyone’s preferences |
| Growing flexibility: Some employers now offer hybrid or remote work arrangements, though this varies widely | Continuing education needs: Staying current on legal developments, technology, and procedures requires ongoing learning |
| Career flexibility: Experience can transfer across practice areas and may provide a foundation for law school if desired | Emotional aspects: Working with clients in difficult situations (divorce, injury, criminal matters) can be emotionally demanding |
Is Becoming a Paralegal Right for Me?
For those who have read this article wondering, “Should I become a paralegal?,” it may be time to consider next steps. If you’d like to gain exposure to the legal field without committing to the lengthy law school process, the paralegal path may be worth exploring.
You might find satisfaction as a paralegal if you:
- Enjoy research, analysis, and working with detailed information
- Have strong organizational skills and can manage multiple priorities
- Communicate clearly in writing and verbally
- Work reasonably well under deadline pressure
- Are interested in law but aren’t certain about law school
- Appreciate team-oriented work environments
- Want a career with relatively accessible entry requirements
This career might present challenges if you:
- Strongly prefer creative work over analytical, detail-oriented tasks
- Find high-pressure deadlines and multitasking particularly difficult
- Prefer being the final decision-maker rather than working in a support role
- Need highly predictable daily routines without variation
- Are uncomfortable learning new technology systems
Remember that career satisfaction depends on many personal factors, including your specific employer, practice area, work-life balance priorities, and geographic location. We recommend speaking with working paralegals in your area to get firsthand perspectives on the career.
For more information on how to break into the field, visit our Guide to Tips and Tricks of Becoming a Paralegal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is paralegal a dying career?
No, the paralegal career is not dying. While the legal industry is evolving with technology, Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows a continued steady demand for paralegals with approximately 39,300 job openings annually. Technology and automation are changing some aspects of legal work, but the need for skilled paralegals who can handle complex legal tasks, client interaction, and case management continues. Many law firms rely on paralegals as a cost-effective way to deliver quality legal services. However, staying current with legal technology and developing specialized skills can help ensure continued employability.
Can I become a paralegal without a degree?
While it’s possible in some jurisdictions and with some employers to become a paralegal through on-the-job training without a formal degree, most employers prefer or require candidates with at least an associate’s degree or a paralegal certificate. Starting with formal education typically provides foundational knowledge, better job opportunities, and higher earning potential. If you’re already working in a law office as a legal secretary or assistant, some firms may promote you to paralegal with experience, but formal education remains the most common and reliable path in most markets.
How long does it take to become a paralegal?
The time required depends on your starting point and whether you attend full-time or part-time. If you have no college degree, an associate’s degree in paralegal studies typically takes 2 years of full-time study (or 3-4 years part-time). If you already have a bachelor’s degree in any field, a post-bachelor’s paralegal certificate can be completed in 8-12 months full-time (or up to 2 years part-time). Some accelerated programs may be faster. This timeline is considerably shorter than becoming an attorney, which requires 7+ years of education, including law school.
What’s the difference between a paralegal and a legal assistant?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, paralegals typically perform more substantive legal work, including legal research, drafting legal documents, and case preparation. Legal assistants generally handle more administrative tasks like scheduling, filing, and document organization. Paralegals usually require formal education (associate’s degree or certificate), while legal assistants may need only a high school diploma or some college. Paralegals also typically earn higher salaries, with a national median of $61,010 compared to roughly $45,000-$52,000 for legal assistants, though this varies by location and employer. Visit our detailed comparison guide to learn more about these distinctions.
Do paralegals work long hours?
Most paralegals work standard full-time hours of approximately 40 hours per week, though this varies by employer and practice area. Litigation paralegals may experience periods of longer hours as trial dates approach or during heavy discovery phases. Corporate and government paralegals often maintain more predictable schedules. Some overtime may be required during busy periods or major transactions, but this is generally less intense than typical attorney schedules. Many employers offer compensatory time or overtime pay for additional hours worked. When considering positions, ask about typical work schedules and overtime expectations.
Can paralegals work remotely?
Remote work opportunities for paralegals have expanded since 2020, though availability varies considerably by employer, practice area, and jurisdiction. Some law firms and corporate legal departments now offer hybrid arrangements where paralegals work from home several days per week. Fully remote paralegal positions exist with some virtual law firms, corporate legal departments, and contract paralegal services. Tasks like legal research, document review, and drafting can often be done remotely. However, many positions still require some in-office presence for court filings, client meetings, or team collaboration. If remote work is important to you, research specific employer policies carefully as this remains highly variable across the industry.
Is paralegal certification worth it?
In many cases, paralegal certification can be a worthwhile investment. Formal credentials through programs like NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) or NFPA’s Paralegal CORE Registered demonstrate professional competency to employers and may lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries in competitive markets. While not always required, certification can help distinguish you from other candidates and show commitment to the profession. Many employers prefer certified paralegals, and some studies suggest certified paralegals may earn somewhat more than non-certified paralegals with similar experience, though this varies by market. Consider researching employer preferences in your target geographic area when making this decision.
How much can I earn as a paralegal?
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the national median paralegal salary is $61,010 annually, though actual earnings vary significantly by location, experience, employer, and practice area. Entry-level paralegals often start around $39,710 to $48,190 (10th to 25th percentile), while experienced paralegals may earn $78,280 to $98,990 or more (75th to 90th percentile). Geographic location significantly impacts compensation: Washington D.C. shows the highest median at $83,420, followed by Washington State ($71,900) and California ($70,290). Federal government and finance sector positions often pay higher than local government or small firm positions. We strongly recommend researching salary ranges in your specific area, as national averages may not reflect your local market conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Paralegals can enter the legal field relatively quickly with 8 months to 2 years of education (depending on program and attendance), making it more accessible than the attorney path, which requires 7+ years.
- The 2024 national median paralegal salary is $61,010, with experienced professionals potentially earning up to $98,990 annually, though actual salaries vary significantly by location, employer, and practice area.
- Employment outlook shows steady demand with approximately 39,300 annual job openings, though opportunities vary by geographic region and local market conditions.
- Paralegals perform substantive legal work, including research, case preparation, and document drafting under attorney supervision, offering intellectual engagement without requiring law school.
- Remote work opportunities have expanded in some sectors since 2020, though availability varies widely by employer, with many positions still requiring regular office presence.
- While some employers may hire paralegals without formal degrees, most prefer ABA-approved associate’s degrees or post-bachelor’s certificates, which typically provide better career prospects and earning potential.
Ready to Explore Paralegal Programs?
Research ABA-approved paralegal programs in your state to find options that match your timeline, budget, and career goals.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market figures for Paralegals and Legal Assistants reflect national data. Individual results vary significantly by location, employer, experience level, and local market conditions. We recommend researching salary ranges and job availability in your specific geographic area. Data accessed December 2025.
