To become a paralegal in Hawaii, you need formal education through a certificate or degree program in paralegal studies. Hawaii doesn’t regulate paralegals, so there’s no mandatory licensing. The University of Hawaii Kapi’olani offers the only ABA-approved program in the state. Paralegals in Hawaii earn a median salary of $60,890, with job growth projected at 4.7% through 2032.
Hawaii’s paralegal profession may not be large, with approximately 1,170 paralegal 
jobs as of May 2023, but there’s plenty to get excited about. The islands are home to diverse employment opportunities across federal agencies like the Department of the Air Force and the Department of the Army, state agencies including the Hawaii Department of Health and the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, and major law firms such as Cades Schutte and Goodsill Anderson Quinn & Stifel.
Whether you’re an aspiring paralegal fresh out of high school or a career changer considering the field, understanding how to become a paralegal in Hawaii means coming equipped with the right education, credentials, and skills to make you a valuable asset to employers. Hawaii’s economy, driven by tourism and a strong U.S. military presence, creates steady demand for legal professionals who can support attorneys in increasingly complex legal frameworks.
This guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing a paralegal career in Hawaii, from education requirements and ABA-approved programs to salary data, professional associations, and job outlook through 2032.
Education Requirements
In Hawaii, you can become a paralegal by completing formal coursework in paralegal studies, receiving on-the-job training, or combining both approaches. The body of knowledge required to effectively perform legal support services can only come from quality education. As attorneys, corporations, and government agencies work within increasingly complex legal frameworks, they expect paralegals to take on higher levels of responsibility.
Educational options include certificates, associate’s degrees, and bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies. Each pathway offers different advantages depending on your background and career goals.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs come in two main types. Standalone certificates admit students with no previous degree and typically require completing both paralegal courses and general education requirements. These programs can take anywhere from several months to two years, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Post-baccalaureate certificate programs require applicants to already hold bachelor’s degrees in another subject. This type of certificate allows you to focus solely on paralegal studies without needing additional general education classes. Most post-baccalaureate programs run 12-18 months and provide intensive, focused paralegal training.
It’s important to research certificate programs carefully. Some may or may not be approved by the American Bar Association, and their issuing institutions may or may not be accredited. These distinctions matter to employers and to the national paralegal associations that offer certification.
Degree Programs
Many students prefer earning a degree in paralegal studies rather than just a certificate. Degrees can help distinguish entry-level paralegals from their peers in the job market, particularly when applying to larger law firms or corporate legal departments.
Associate’s degrees typically require two years of full-time study and combine paralegal coursework with general education requirements. Bachelor’s degrees take four years and provide the most comprehensive education. Some paralegal bachelor’s programs even include specialization tracks in areas like litigation, corporate law, or real estate.
Some degree programs specifically prepare graduates for taking national certification exams, which can further boost their career prospects.
Certification Options
National certification is a voluntary process that paralegals may undertake to increase their professional standing, raise the professionalism of paralegals as a whole, or distinguish themselves from their peers in the job market. Some national certification programs also allow paralegals to specialize in certain areas of law.
Currently, three national paralegal associations offer four different certification exams:
- The PACE provided by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The PCCE is also offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The CLA/CP offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
Eligibility requirements vary from exam to exam. Some require specific educational backgrounds or work experience, while others have more flexible prerequisites. Many paralegal degree programs prepare their graduates specifically for taking these exams, which can make certification more accessible.
While certification isn’t required to work as a paralegal in Hawaii, it demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and is often valued by employers, particularly larger law firms. Certification can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities.
ABA-Approved Paralegal Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii has one institution offering ABA-approved paralegal programs: the University of Hawaii Kapi’olani Community College. ABA approval, while not required to work as a paralegal in Hawaii, signals that a program meets rigorous educational standards and can be important to employers and national certification organizations.
University of Hawaii Kapi’olani Community College
Kapi’olani Community College is a two-year public community college located in Honolulu and part of the University of Hawaii school system. It offers two ABA-approved paralegal programs designed for different educational backgrounds.
AS in Paralegal (Campus-Based)
The Associate of Science program in paralegal studies is the only ABA-approved associate program in the state. This comprehensive program consists of 20 courses totaling 60 credits and includes a capstone portion where students participate in a cooperative education course to gain real-world experience while earning credits.
The program accommodates both full-time and part-time students, making it accessible whether you’re attending college directly after high school or balancing education with work and family responsibilities. Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level paralegal positions throughout Hawaii’s legal market.
Paralegal Certificate (Post-Baccalaureate, Campus-Based)
The post-baccalaureate certificate program runs 27 credits in length and requires incoming students to have already completed a bachelor’s degree in any field. This accelerated option allows career changers and those with existing degrees to focus entirely on paralegal studies without repeating general education coursework.
This concentrated program is perfect for professionals looking to transition into paralegal work or recent graduates seeking specialized legal training to complement their undergraduate degree.
Hawaii Paralegal Regulation
The regulation of paralegals has been considered and ultimately rejected by both the Hawaii State Bar and the Hawaiian Supreme Court. This means Hawaii doesn’t require paralegals to obtain licenses, register with any state agency, or meet specific regulatory requirements to practice.
That doesn’t mean paralegals work without oversight. Under Hawaii’s Rule of Professional Conduct 5.3, any legal “paraprofessional,” including paralegals, must be directly supervised by a lawyer. Lawyers must also assume responsibility for the professional actions of the paraprofessionals in their employ.
This regulatory framework places the burden of ensuring quality and ethical paralegal work on supervising attorneys rather than on individual paralegals through licensing. While this creates flexibility for entering the profession, it also means employers tend to prefer candidates with formal education and, in many cases, voluntary national certification.
Hawaii Paralegal Salary & Job Outlook
Though Hawaii has long been known for its high cost of living, the swaying palm trees, white sand beaches, and blue skies make it well worth it for the paralegals who call these islands home. Understanding the financial landscape is crucial for anyone considering this career path.
Statewide Salary Overview
As of May 2023 (the latest BLS data available), paralegals in Hawaii earned a median annual salary of $60,890, or $29.28 per hour. The mean salary came in slightly higher at $64,210 annually ($30.87 per hour). While these figures sit just below the national average of $66,510, they reflect a solid income for Hawaii’s legal market.
The salary range for paralegals in Hawaii spans considerably based on experience, education, certification, and specialization. Entry-level paralegals typically start near the 10th percentile, while those with extensive experience, industry credentials, and expertise in specializations like litigation, family law, or bankruptcy law can reach the top 10% of earners.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry-Level) | $48,690 | $23.41 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,620 | $25.30 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $60,890 | $29.28 |
| 75th Percentile | $73,470 | $35.32 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $83,890 | $40.33 |
There are plenty of reasons to climb the paralegal career ladder in Hawaii. Paralegals in the top 10% earn nearly $20,000 above the state average, rewarding those who invest in their education, gain specialized experience, and pursue professional certifications.
Salary by Metro Area
Geographic location within Hawaii significantly impacts paralegal salaries. Urban Honolulu leads the state in both employment opportunities and compensation, followed by the Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina metro area and the Hawaii/Kauai nonmetropolitan region.
| Metro Area | Employment | Mean Salary | Top 10% Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Honolulu | 980 paralegals | $64,770 ($31.14/hour) | $85,340 ($41.03/hour) |
| Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina | 90 paralegals | $63,810 ($30.68/hour) | $83,270 ($40.03/hour) |
| Hawaii/Kauai (Nonmetropolitan) | 100 paralegals | $58,960 ($28.34/hour) | $73,470 ($35.32/hour) |
It’s no surprise that Urban Honolulu salaries edge past those in other regions. The capital is home to major corporations like Hawaii Pacific Health and Hawaiian Airlines, the state’s largest law firms, and most government legal offices. The concentration of high-value legal work naturally supports higher paralegal compensation.
The Kahului area on Maui maintains competitive salaries, reflecting the region’s economic activity and legal needs. Even the nonmetropolitan Hawaii/Kauai region offers respectable compensation, particularly where tourism and recreation industries generate steady legal work.
Job Growth Outlook (2022-2032)
Hawaii’s paralegal job market shows steady, positive growth over the next decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, paralegal employment in Hawaii is expected to grow from 1,220 positions in 2022 to 1,280 positions by 2032.
This represents a net increase of 60 jobs, or 4.7% growth over the ten-year period. While this growth rate is modest, it’s important to consider the full picture. Hawaii’s paralegal market will see approximately 130 annual job openings through 2032 when combining new positions with openings from retirement and career changes.
The positive growth in Hawaii’s legal services industry bodes well for paralegals, whether you’re new to the profession or working your way up through the ranks. According to the American Bar Association, the number of actively practicing lawyers in Hawaii increased by 3.2% between 2011 and 2021, reaching 4,139 attorneys by 2024. Growing attorney numbers typically translate into more opportunities for paralegals.
Professional Associations in Hawaii
Two professional associations serve Hawaii’s paralegal community, each offering unique benefits and affiliations with national organizations.
Hawaii Paralegal Association (HPA)
Founded in 1978 and based in Honolulu, the Hawaii Paralegal Association has supported the state’s paralegal community for nearly five decades. The HPA provides education, information, and advocacy while developing working relationships with other professionals in Hawaii’s legal community.
The association is affiliated with the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) and helps members obtain education, certification, and continuing legal education (CLE). The HPA offers four levels of membership:
- Voting Member: Open to anyone employed as a Hawaii paralegal or paralegal supervisor who was formerly a paralegal
- Associate Member: Open to out-of-state paralegals, former paralegals, other legal professionals, or those who have completed a paralegal education program
- Student Member: Available to students enrolled in official paralegal education programs who aren’t currently working as paralegals
- Sustaining Member: Open to any person or entity that supports the HPA’s mission
The HPA works to educate the general public about the paralegal role and advocates for the profession throughout Hawaii’s legal community. Members gain access to networking events, professional development opportunities, and resources for career advancement.
Hawaii Legal Support Professionals (HLSP)
Hawaii Legal Support Professionals offers membership to paralegals, legal assistants, and other legal paraprofessionals throughout the state. Based in Honolulu and affiliated with the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS), the HLSP supports members in becoming nationally certified through NALS’ Professional Paralegal (PP) exam.
The organization works to increase the professional standing of legal paraprofessionals, provide networking opportunities to members, and offer educational seminars and continuing legal education. Like the HPA, the HLSP serves as a valuable resource for building professional connections and staying current with developments in the legal field.
Major Employers & Law Firms in Hawaii
Understanding where paralegals work in Hawaii helps you target your job search and career planning effectively. Opportunities span law firms, government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations.
Law Firms
The majority of Hawaii’s paralegals are employed by law firms. The largest firms concentrate in the Honolulu area, though some maintain smaller offices throughout the islands. Notable law firms in Hawaii include:
- Goodsill Anderson Quinn & Stifel
- Cades Schutte
- Carlsmith Ball
- Alston Hunt Floyd & Ing
- McCorriston Miller Mukai MacKinnon
- Starn O’Toole Marcus & Fisher
- Kobayashi Sugita & Goda
- Torkildson Katz Moore Hetherington & Harris
- Damon Key Leong Kupchak & Hastert
- Imanaka Kudo & Fujimoto
These firms handle diverse practice areas, including corporate law, litigation, real estate, family law, and estate planning. Many actively recruit paralegals with specialized skills or experience in specific practice areas.
Federal and State Agencies
Government agencies employ a significant number of Hawaii’s paralegals. Federal employers include the Department of the Air Force and the Department of the Army, both maintain substantial operations in Hawaii due to the state’s strategic military importance.
State-level opportunities exist with the Hawaii Department of Health, the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, and the Hawaii State Judiciary. These positions often offer excellent benefits, job security, and opportunities for public service.
Corporate and Nonprofit Employers
Corporations like Hawaiian Electric, Alexander & Baldwin, Hawaii Pacific Health, and Hawaiian Airlines employ in-house paralegals to handle their legal affairs. These corporate positions can offer competitive salaries and benefits while providing experience in specific industries like utilities, real estate, healthcare, or aviation.
Nonprofit organizations like the Hawaii Fiduciary Organization also hire paralegals to support their missions. These roles often focus on specific areas of law relevant to the organization’s work.
Important Legal Resources
The Hawaii State Bar Association serves as the professional organization for Hawaii’s attorneys and provides resources relevant to paralegals. The Hawaii State Judiciary website offers information about Hawaii’s court system, rules, and procedures that paralegals need to understand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to work as a paralegal in Hawaii?
No, Hawaii doesn’t require paralegals to obtain licenses or register with any state agency. The state bar and supreme court have both rejected proposals to regulate paralegals. You must work under the direct supervision of an attorney per Rule of Professional Conduct 5.3, but there’s no mandatory licensing requirement. That said, most employers prefer candidates with formal education from certificate or degree programs, and many value voluntary national certification from organizations like NFPA or NALA.
What paralegal programs are available in Hawaii?
The University of Hawaii Kapi’olani Community College offers the only ABA-approved paralegal programs in the state. They provide both an Associate of Science degree (60 credits) and a post-baccalaureate certificate (27 credits). The AS program is particularly valuable as it’s the only ABA-approved associate program in Hawaii and includes a cooperative education component for hands-on experience. ABA approval signals quality to employers and can be important for national certification eligibility.
How much do paralegals make in Honolulu?
Paralegals in Urban Honolulu earn a mean salary of $64,770 per year, or $31.14 per hour. This is slightly higher than the statewide average and reflects the concentration of major law firms, corporations, and government offices in the capital. Entry-level paralegals in Honolulu typically start around $48,780 annually, while experienced paralegals in the top 10% can earn $85,340 or more. Salaries vary based on your education, experience, certifications, and area of specialization.
Can I become a paralegal with on-the-job training alone?
While it’s technically possible to become a paralegal through on-the-job training alone in Hawaii, it’s increasingly rare and difficult. Most employers now require formal education through certificate or degree programs. The legal field has become more complex, and attorneys expect paralegals to arrive with foundational knowledge that only structured education provides. If you’re starting without formal education, you’ll likely need to combine entry-level legal work with evening or online paralegal courses to remain competitive in the job market.
Is NFPA or NALA certification better?
Neither certification is inherently “better” than the other. They’re both respected national credentials, but they differ in focus and requirements. NFPA’s PACE exam emphasizes experience and requires a bachelor’s degree plus paralegal education, making it popular among experienced paralegals. NALA’s CLA/CP exam has more flexible education requirements and tests on specific legal topics. Choose based on which organization your local paralegal association affiliates with (HPA is NFPA-affiliated, HLSP is NALS-affiliated), which exam’s requirements you meet, and which is more recognized by employers in your target practice area.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Hawaii?
The timeline depends on your educational path. A post-baccalaureate certificate takes about 12-18 months if you already have a bachelor’s degree. An associate’s degree typically requires two years of full-time study. A bachelor’s degree takes four years. Most programs offer part-time options that extend these timeframes but allow you to work while studying. After completing your education, you can start job hunting immediately, though some paralegals choose to spend a few additional months preparing for and taking national certification exams before entering the job market.
Are there paralegal job opportunities outside Honolulu?
Yes, though opportunities are more limited. The Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina area on Maui employs about 90 paralegals, and the Hawaii/Kauai nonmetropolitan region has around 100 positions. These areas offer competitive salaries, though slightly below Honolulu’s levels. Smaller islands and rural areas have fewer opportunities, but they exist in local law firms, government offices, and businesses that need legal support. Some Hawaii paralegals may work remotely for mainland firms, an option that has become more available since 2020. Keep in mind that the majority of positions (about 84%) are concentrated in the Honolulu metro area.
Key Takeaways
- Hawaii doesn’t require paralegal licensing, but formal education through certificate or degree programs is essential for employment in today’s competitive legal market
- The University of Hawaii Kapi’olani Community College offers the only ABA-approved paralegal programs in the state, including an AS degree and a post-baccalaureate certificate
- Paralegals in Hawaii earn a median salary of $60,890, with Urban Honolulu offering the highest compensation at $64,770 on average, and top earners reaching $85,340
- Job growth of 4.7% is projected through 2032, creating approximately 130 annual job openings from both new positions and turnover
- Voluntary national certification through NFPA, NALA, or NALS can enhance career prospects and demonstrate professional commitment to employers
- Two professional associations serve Hawaii paralegals: the Hawaii Paralegal Association (NFPA-affiliated) and the Hawaii Legal Support Professionals (NALS-affiliated), both based in Honolulu
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Salary Disclaimer: 2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market figures for Paralegals and Legal Assistants reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed December 2025. Employment projections from Hawaii State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations.
