Michigan doesn’t regulate paralegals or require specific credentials to work in the field. You can enter through education (certificate or degree programs) or on-the-job training. With 7,240 paralegal jobs and a median salary of $61,490, Michigan offers strong opportunities, especially in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Midland.
Home to major automotive companies such as Ford Motor, General Motors, and Ally Financial (formerly GMAC), and other Fortune 500 companies such as Dow Chemical, Whirlpool, and Kellogg, Michigan has long been a source of professional opportunities for paralegals in corporate law. Michigan is also home to big law firms like Detroit’s Honigman, Dickinson Wright, and Bodman, which offer paralegal job opportunities in areas such as criminal law, bankruptcy law, and immigration law.
Before you can join the ranks of the dynamic paralegal profession, you’ll need to learn how to become a paralegal in Michigan, which includes ensuring you have the education and credentials that today’s top lawyers demand. With a dominant manufacturing industry, a strong construction industry in Kalamazoo, an information technology boom in Ann Arbor, and a swiftly recovering auto industry in Detroit and Dearborn, Michigan’s legal services industry continues to grow.
Michigan’s Rule 5.3 (the state’s version of ABA Model Rule 5.3) defines paralegals as legal “paraprofessionals” who may be employed under the supervision of an attorney. Supervising attorneys must instruct their paraprofessionals on ethical and confidentiality standards and must be willing to accept responsibility for their employees’ professional conduct.
Paralegal Certification in Michigan
Michigan does not regulate its paralegals by requiring them to meet specific training or education standards. As such, aspiring paralegals may choose education or on-the-job training as entry points into their chosen career.
Aspiring paralegals in Michigan may acquire education through certificate programs or degree-conferring programs. Education can help prepare entry-level paralegals for employment, help them qualify for the voluntary national certification exams, and help distinguish them in a competitive job market.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs offer students focused coursework in paralegal studies with few general education requirements. Graduates from certificate programs are called certificated paralegals. It’s important to note that “certificated” refers to completing a certificate program and is not the same as being “certified” through a national exam. The term “certificated” is not formally recognized in law, but indicates completion of specialized training. Certificate programs may take different forms. Some programs target aspiring paralegals who have already earned a degree in another field and seek specialized coursework in paralegal studies. Other certificate programs do not require applicants to have previously earned a degree. Graduates from certificate programs earn certificates of completion.
Degree Programs
Degrees, such as associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in paralegal studies, are also available to aspiring paralegals. Degrees combine general education classes with specialized work in paralegal studies.
The American Bar Association (ABA) offers a recommended list of programs. ABA approval and accreditation status of the educational institution can be critical to employers as well as to national paralegal associations that offer certification exams.
National Certification
In Michigan, it’s not required that paralegals become nationally certified to work legally. However, paralegals may voluntarily sit for the national certification exams to become certified paralegals. Such certification demonstrates paralegals’ mastery of their field.
The national certification exams are open to paralegals who meet the required education, work experience, or a combination of the two.
Currently, three professional organizations offer four national exams from which to select:
- The PACE and PCCE are provided by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The CLA/CP throuth the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- Provided by the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS)
Paralegal Salaries in Michigan
Paralegals in Michigan with specialized knowledge in corporate and intellectual property law are sure to find a wealth of opportunities in the state’s corporate sector. In contrast, governmental agencies, nonprofits, and law firms remain strong employers of paralegals throughout the state.
Statewide Salary Overview
As of May 2024, Michigan had 7,240 paralegal jobs, outpacing Indiana (5,970) and Wisconsin (4,930).
During this time, the average salary for paralegals in Michigan was $65,430, or $31.46 per hour. The highest earners here (top 10%), who likely bring with them extensive experience, particularly in a legal specialty like criminal litigation, commercial litigation, family law, or bankruptcy law, earned a salary of at least $88,000, or $42.31 during this time, revealing a profession that’s ripe with opportunities for advancement.
The median salary for paralegals in Michigan was $61,490 per year.
Paralegal Salaries by Metropolitan Area
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn’s substantial salaries for paralegals are undoubtedly tied to the auto industry here, which includes the big three: General Motors, Ford, and Ally Financial. The Grand Rapids metro region, which ranked second for paralegal pay, is laser-focused on becoming the Midwest’s leading technology cluster by 2031. As of May 2024, Midland ranked first in the state for the metro area with the highest average paralegal salary, and sixth in the nation for that distinction.
| Metropolitan Area | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Top 10% Annual | Top 10% Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ann Arbor | $63,830 | $30.69 | $81,840 | $39.35 |
| Bay City | $54,190 | $26.05 | $75,630 | $36.36 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn | $67,990 | $32.69 | $95,880 | $46.10 |
| Flint | $57,890 | $27.83 | $77,720 | $37.36 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming | $68,360 | $32.87 | $82,210 | $39.53 |
| Jackson | $62,080 | $29.85 | $84,710 | $40.73 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage | $56,920 | $27.36 | $75,170 | $36.14 |
| Lansing-East Lansing | $60,820 | $29.24 | $81,440 | $39.15 |
| Midland | $79,570 | $38.25 | $96,670 | $46.48 |
| Muskegon | $53,240 | $25.60 | $68,900 | $33.13 |
| Niles-Benton Harbor | $57,850 | $27.81 | $77,720 | $37.37 |
| Rural Upper Peninsula | $46,980 | $22.59 | $63,840 | $30.69 |
| Saginaw | $54,220 | $26.07 | $73,970 | $35.56 |
| Traverse City | $57,350 | $27.57 | $76,830 | $36.94 |
Job Market and Employment Growth
Michigan’s paralegal profession shows promising growth potential. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections for 2022-2032, the state expects 770 average annual job openings for paralegals and legal assistants during this period.
With rural areas on the Lower Peninsula offering competitive average paralegal salaries, you’ll need to come with strong credentials to land an entry-level job or carve out your niche here. This advice applies whether you plan to work for a local law office in your hometown or aim to land a job in a big firm with offices in a downtown skyscraper in Grand Rapids or Detroit.
Paralegal Schools and Programs in Michigan
The body of knowledge required to perform legal support services effectively can only be gained through a 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 Michigan have come to rely on paralegals with the kind of expertise that can only come from earning a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
From the Upper Peninsula across the Straits of Mackinac, all the way to the big city of Detroit, Michigan, there are some of the best opportunities for anybody looking to become a paralegal. All the programs listed below are offered through schools that hold regional or national accreditation.
Central Michigan University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
Davenport University
AS in Legal Studies – Campus
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Delta College
Associate in Business Studies, Legal Support Professional – Campus
Advanced Certificate in Law Office Specialist – Campus
Advanced Certificate in Law Office Foundation – Campus
Paralegal Certificate – Online
Eastern Michigan University
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Ferris State University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
Grand Valley State University
BA/BS in Legal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Henry Ford College
Associate of Business in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies (post-associate) – Campus
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Legal Office Assistant Certificate – Campus
Lansing Community College
Associate of Business in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Macomb Community College
AAS in Legal Assistant Studies – Campus
Madonna University
AS Paralegal Studies – Campus
BS Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Michigan State University
BA in Political Science Pre-Law – Campus
North Central Michigan College
AAS Legal Assistant – Campus
Northern Michigan University
Paralegal AAS – Campus
Paralegal Bachelor’s Degree – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Northwestern Michigan College
Advanced Paralegal Certificate Course – Online
Paralegal Certificate Course – Online
Oakland Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Oakland University
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
University of Detroit Mercy
Certificate in Legal Studies – Campus
Washtenaw Community College
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Campus with the option for some online courses
Wayne County Community College District
Paralegal Technology AAS – Campus
Western Michigan University
Bachelor’s Degree in Pre-Law – Campus
Professional Associations
Both the State Bar of Michigan and the Grand Rapids Bar Association have active paralegal sections that offer continuing legal education, job listings, and regular gatherings.
State Bar of Michigan Paralegal Section
The State Bar of Michigan offers section membership for employed paralegals who meet one of the following:
- Bachelor’s degree in any field and graduate from an ABA-approved paralegal program
- Bachelor’s degree in any field plus two years of in-house paralegal training
- Associate’s degree in the paralegal studies field, plus two years of in-house paralegal training
- Associate’s degree in any field, graduate of an ABA-approved paralegal program, plus two years of in-house paralegal training
- Four years of in-house paralegal training
NALS of Michigan
This state-level NALS affiliate organization has several local chapter members throughout the state, who all have these membership 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
The NALS local chapters throughout the state are:
- NALS of Detroit
- NALS Grand Traverse Area Legal Professionals
- NALS of Greater Kalamazoo
- NALS of Jackson County
- NALS of Lansing
- NALS of West Michigan
Michiana Paralegal Association (MPA)
Paralegals in Cass and Berrien Counties may join the Michiana Paralegal Association (MPA), which includes over 50 members from northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan. The MPA offers educational and professional development opportunities, networking, an exchange of information on both local and national topics, advocacy for the profession, and pro bono service to the larger community.
Major Employers and Law Firms
Major cities often host many large law firms that employ paralegals. In Detroit, these law firms include:
- Dickinson Wright
- Clark Hill
- Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone
- Dykema Gossett
- Butzel Long
- Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn
Important Contacts for Paralegals
- State Bar of Michigan
- State Bar of Michigan – Paralegal Section
- Grand Rapids Bar Association
- Grand Rapids Bar Association – Legal Assistants Section Blog
- Michigan Secretary of State
- Michigan Courts
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Michigan require paralegal certification?
No, Michigan does not regulate paralegals or require certification to work in the field. However, voluntary national certification through NFPA, NALA, or NALS can demonstrate your expertise and help you stand out to employers.
What education do I need to become a paralegal in Michigan?
Michigan doesn’t mandate specific education requirements. You can enter the field through certificate programs, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies, or on-the-job training. Many employers prefer candidates with formal education, especially from ABA-approved programs.
How much do paralegals make in Michigan?
As of May 2024, Michigan paralegals earned a median salary of $61,490 per year, or $29.57 per hour. The average salary was $65,430 annually. Top earners (90th percentile) made $88,000 or more, with Midland offering the highest average wages in the state at $79,570.
Which Michigan cities pay paralegals the most?
Midland offers the highest average paralegal salary in Michigan at $79,570, followed by Grand Rapids-Wyoming at $68,360 and Detroit-Warren-Dearborn at $67,990. These metropolitan areas benefit from strong corporate and manufacturing sectors.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Michigan?
The timeline varies by education path. Certificate programs typically take 6-12 months, associate degrees require about 2 years, and bachelor’s degrees take 4 years. Some programs offer accelerated or part-time options to fit your schedule.
What is the job outlook for paralegals in Michigan?
Michigan’s paralegal job market shows steady growth, with an average of 770 annual job openings projected from 2022 to 2032. The state currently employs 7,240 paralegals across various sectors, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies.
Are there professional paralegal associations in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan has several paralegal associations, including the State Bar of Michigan’s Paralegal Section, the Grand Rapids Bar Association’s Legal Assistants Section, NALS of Michigan, with chapters throughout the state, and the Michiana Paralegal Association serving southwestern Michigan.
Can I work as a paralegal in Michigan with just a certificate?
Yes, certificate programs provide focused paralegal training and can qualify you for entry-level positions. Many employers accept certificated paralegals, especially if the certificate is from an ABA-approved program or you have relevant work experience.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan doesn’t regulate paralegals, so you can enter the field through education or on-the-job training, though most employers prefer formal education.
- The state offers diverse educational programs, including certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees from more than 100 schools statewide.e
- Michigan paralegals earn a median salary of $61,490, with top earners making $88,000 or more annually.y
- Midland offers the highest average paralegal salary in the state at $79,570, followed by Grand Rapids and the Detroit metro areas.
- The state projects 770 average annual paralegal job openings from 2022 to 2032, indicating steady employment growth.h
- Multiple professional associations provide networking, continuing education, and career development opportunities throughout Michigan.
- Major law firms in Detroit and corporate legal departments offer diverse career paths for paralegals with specialized expertise.e
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Michigan?
Explore accredited paralegal programs throughout Michigan and take the first step toward a rewarding career in the legal field.
