Minnesota doesn’t require mandatory paralegal certification, but education from ABA-approved programs strengthens career prospects. Paralegals earn a median salary of $67,320 annually, with top earners making $98,480. The state offers 13 accredited programs and expects 620 annual job openings through 2032.
Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth are among Minnesota’s largest metro areas, where exciting paralegal opportunities abound. Whether you want to work for a corporation, a state or federal governmental agency, or a law firm where you’ll specialize in an area like bankruptcy law or estate law, you’ll need to learn how to become a paralegal in Minnesota. In short, you’ll want to ensure you have the education, credentials, and practical know-how that today’s lawyers demand.
Largely supported by the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, the state’s economic hub and home to major corporations like Target, General Mills, and 3M, Minnesota has enjoyed a strong economy that’s backed by a business-friendly environment and high quality of life. With 19 Fortune 500 companies headquartered here, the state offers no shortage of opportunities for paralegals, both in traditional settings like law firms and municipal and district courts, as well as with corporate legal departments.
Education Requirements & Certification
Minnesota defines paralegals as part of a class of “legal paraprofessionals” under its Rule 5.3. According to this rule, paraprofessionals must be supervised by an attorney who instructs them in ethics and confidentiality. The attorney must also accept responsibility for the paraprofessionals’ professional conduct.
Minnesota has no regulations requiring standardized training or education for paralegals. Thus, aspiring paralegals may choose to pursue careers through on-the-job training or education in paralegal studies. However, as professional opportunities for paralegals increase, education can help set entry-level job applicants apart from their peers. Certificates and degrees in paralegal studies can also prepare paralegals to meet the requirements for the voluntary national certification exams.
Certificate vs. Degree Programs
Certificate programs in paralegal studies are generally shorter than degree programs, as they don’t have many general education requirements. Instead, they offer specialized coursework in paralegal studies. Upon completing such a program, graduates receive certificates of completion to become certificated paralegals.
Certificate programs have different entry requirements. Some may require that the applicant have previously earned a degree in a different field. Others offer paralegal studies certificates to those with no previous higher education.
Degrees in paralegal studies are also available to aspiring paralegals who desire both in-depth paralegal coursework and the fundamentals of higher education. Students may earn associate, bachelor’s or master’s degrees in paralegal studies.
National Certification Options
Although Minnesota doesn’t require national certification, paralegals may choose to become certified paralegals to demonstrate their competence in their field. Paralegals who meet requirements for education, work experience, or a combination of the two may take one of the four national certification exams offered by the three national professional paralegal associations.
Many paralegals in Minnesota take the PACE or PCCE exams, as the Minnesota Paralegal Association is an affiliate of the NFPA. The four national exams are:
- The PACE offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The PCCE also offered by National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The CLA/CP provided by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- The PP provided by the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS)
Paralegal Salaries in Minnesota
According to the American Bar Association, the number of active lawyers in Minnesota has increased by an impressive 11.8% between 2011-2021 and stands at 26,065 as of 2024. This type of exciting growth has translated to the paralegal profession, which continues to post positive job numbers. In fact, as of May 2024, the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area ranks 19th among all cities nationally for its number of paralegal jobs.
Statewide Salary Overview
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Minnesota employs 6,640 paralegals and legal assistants. The state’s paralegals earn competitive salaries that reflect the strong legal market and presence of major corporations.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry-Level) | $39,710 | $19.09 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,500 | $24.76 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $67,320 | $32.37 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,550 | $39.69 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $98,480 | $47.35 |
The state’s mean annual salary of $68,340 demonstrates that Minnesota consistently ranks among the top 10 states for paralegal compensation, depending on the specific year and salary metric used (mean or median). This strong earning power reflects the state’s robust legal market and high concentration of corporate legal departments.
Salary by City and Region
The Twin Cities metro area powers Minnesota’s economic engine, so it’s no surprise that paralegal salaries here exceed the state average. Location significantly impacts earning potential across the state.
| Metropolitan Area | Mean Annual Salary | Mean Hourly Wage | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington | $73,450 | $35.31 | $100,260 |
| Southeast Minnesota nonmetropolitan area | $68,500 | $32.93 | $94,480 |
| Rochester | $65,940 | $31.70 | $94,230 |
| Mankato-North Mankato | $62,080 | $29.85 | $80,240 |
| St. Cloud | $61,170 | $29.41 | $85,230 |
| Duluth | $58,990 | $28.36 | $79,450 |
The Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area’s average paralegal salary of $73,450 beats the state’s average by about $5,000 annually. Top earners in this region—likely those with extensive experience, industry credentials, and specialized knowledge in one or more legal specialties, such as civil rights law, corporate law, family law, or commercial litigation—can earn a starting salary of $100,260 annually.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence paralegal compensation in Minnesota beyond geographic location. Education level plays a role, with graduates of ABA-approved programs often commanding higher starting salaries. National certifications like the PACE, PCCE, or CLA/CP can also increase earning potential.
Specialization significantly impacts salary. Paralegals working in specialized fields such as intellectual property, corporate law, or complex litigation typically earn more than those in general practice. Experience level remains one of the strongest predictors of salary, with the data showing a clear progression from entry-level positions at the 10th percentile to experienced professionals at the 90th percentile.
The type of employer matters too. Large corporate legal departments, particularly at Fortune 500 companies, often offer higher compensation packages than small firms. Government positions may offer lower salaries but provide substantial benefits and job security.
Paralegal Programs & Schools
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 Minnesota 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.
There’s a reason why Minnesota consistently ranks among the top 10 states for average paralegal salary, depending on the specific year and salary metric used (mean or median). That’s because it’s home to some really talented paralegals working in finance and business and, of course, for top law firms in the Twin Cities. One of the best-kept secrets in Minnesota is that the state ranks among the top in the nation for having the most Fortune 500 companies headquartered here—19 of them. This means a lot of busy legal departments, many high-powered corporations, and a lot of talented paralegals to staff them.
Saint Paul-based Ecolab is one of those companies. When its CEO was asked how the Land of 10,000 Lakes earned the privilege of playing host to so many major corporations, he said, “We have a highly educated workforce; we have a great work ethic.” This speaks to the caliber of paralegal professionals the state produces.
ABA-Approved and Accredited Programs
Whether a paralegal education program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) or offered by an accredited institution can be an essential consideration. ABA approval demonstrates that a program meets rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student services. Many employers prefer or require graduation from ABA-approved programs.
Minnesota Paralegal Programs
Alexandria Technical & Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Anoka Technical College
AAS in Legal Assisting – Online
Legal Assistant Diploma – Online
Legal Assistant Certificate – Online
Bethany Lutheran College
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Dakota County Technical College
AAS in Legal Administrative Assisting – Campus, online
Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma – Campus, online
Hamline University
Legal Studies Bachelor’s Degree – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Inver Hills Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
Lake Superior College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus and online
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Minnesota State University – Moorhead
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
North Hennepin Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
Rasmussen College-Minnesota
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online, and blended
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus, online, and blended
Ridgewater College
AAS in Legal Assisting – Campus
Legal Assistant Diploma – Campus
Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus, online
Winona State University
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
Job Outlook & Growth
The paralegal profession in Minnesota shows strong growth prospects through the next decade. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, the state’s paralegal workforce is positioned for steady expansion alongside the growing legal services sector.
Employment Projections (2022-2032)
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Base Employment (2022) | 6,190 positions |
| Projected Employment (2032) | 6,810 positions |
| Change in Jobs | +620 positions |
| Percent Change | 10.0% growth |
| Average Annual Openings | 620 positions per year |
This 10% growth rate exceeds many other professions and reflects the continued demand for skilled legal professionals. The 620 average annual openings include both newly created positions and openings from workers leaving the occupation. This steady stream of opportunities provides multiple entry points for aspiring paralegals throughout the decade.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Minnesota’s strong legal market offers clear paths for career advancement. Entry-level paralegals can progress to senior paralegal positions with increased responsibilities and compensation. Some paralegals move into specialized roles focused on specific practice areas, such as intellectual property, environmental law, or healthcare compliance.
Experienced paralegals may advance to paralegal manager or legal operations coordinator positions, supervising teams and managing workflow. Others leverage their legal knowledge to transition into related roles such as compliance officers, contract administrators, or legal technology specialists. The state’s concentration of corporate legal departments creates particular opportunities for career progression outside traditional law firm settings.
Professional Associations
Minnesota Paralegal Association (MPA)
The Minnesota Paralegal Association, an affiliate of the NFPA, has members throughout the state and regional chapters to represent its members’ diverse needs and interests. The MPA provides resources to aspiring paralegals, including a mentoring program and a career center. The MPA also encourages the continuing education and professional development of all its members through meetings, seminars, continuing legal education (CLE), and sectional work focused on various aspects of the law. To support the growth of the paralegal profession with high ethical and professional standards, the MPA engages in pro bono work and networks with related organizations.
Minnesota Certified Paralegal (MnCP) Credential
The MPA sponsors the voluntary credential, Minnesota Certified Paralegal (MnCP). To be eligible for this credential you must meet one of the following:
- Associate’s degree in paralegal studies from a program that is ABA-approved or institutionally accredited, plus four years of paralegal work experience
- Bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies from a program that is ABA-approved or institutionally accredited, plus two years of paralegal work experience
- Bachelor’s degree in any subject, a post-bac paralegal certificate from a program that is ABA-approved or institutionally accredited, and two years of paralegal work experience
- Bachelor’s degree in any subject plus four years of paralegal work experience
- High school diploma or equivalent, 10 years of paralegal work experience, and 10 continuing legal education (CLE) credits completed within the past two years
- Law school graduate plus two years of paralegal work experience
MPA Membership Levels
In addition to the MnCP credential, the MPA offers different levels of membership:
- Voting – Open to paralegals employed in Minnesota
- Greater Minnesota Voting – Open to paralegals employed in Minnesota who live outside the Seven-County Twin Cities Metro Area
- Associate – Open to those who meet any of the following:
- Not employed in the legal field and seeking first-time employment as a paralegal
- Have previously been employed as a paralegal, but are not currently
- Are employed as a paralegal outside the state
- Paralegal Educator – Open to anyone employed or previously employed as a paralegal educator
- Student – Open to any student enrolled in a paralegal program or internship
- Greater Minnesota Student – Open to any student enrolled in a paralegal program or internship that is located outside the Seven County Twin Cities Metro Area
- Sustaining – Open to any entity that supports the MPA
- Individual Sustaining – Open to any employee of an entity that does not wish to, or cannot, be a sustaining member
NALS Twin Cities
A NALS affiliate, this organization offers 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
Red River Valley Paralegal Association (RRVPA)
Paralegals working in western Minnesota may choose to join the Red River Valley Paralegal Association. The RRVPA, an affiliate of NALA, includes paralegals who work in eastern North Dakota and western Minnesota. In addition to regular meetings and networking opportunities, the RRVPA hosts twice-yearly seminars that offer CLE for attendees as well as credits needed to maintain a CLA/CP certification.
Law Firms & Employers
Large law firms can employ many paralegals as part of their team. Major law firms in Minnesota include:
- Fredrikson and Byron
- Briggs and Morgan
- Lindquist and Vennum
- Leonard, Street and Deinard
- Robins, Kaplan, Miller and Ciresi
- Dorsey and Whitney
- Faegre and Benson
Beyond traditional law firms, Minnesota’s 19 Fortune 500 companies provide extensive opportunities in corporate legal departments. Companies like Target, General Mills, 3M, Best Buy, and U.S. Bancorp all maintain substantial legal teams that employ paralegals in various specialized roles.
Important Contacts
- Minnesota Paralegal Association (MPA), affiliated with NFPA
- Minnesota State Bar Association
- Minnesota Secretary of State
- Minnesota Judicial Branch
- Red River Valley Paralegal Association (RRVPA), affiliated with NALA
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need certification to work as a paralegal in Minnesota?
No, Minnesota has no mandatory certification or licensing requirements for paralegals. However, voluntary certification through organizations like NFPA, NALA, or NALS can demonstrate professional competence and may improve job prospects and earning potential. The Minnesota Paralegal Association also offers the Minnesota Certified Paralegal (MnCP) credential.
What’s the average paralegal salary in Minnesota?
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, paralegals in Minnesota earn a median salary of $67,320 annually ($32.37 per hour). Entry-level paralegals at the 10th percentile earn around $39,710, while experienced paralegals at the 90th percentile earn $98,480 or more—the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area offers higher average salaries of $73,450.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Minnesota?
The timeline depends on your educational path. Certificate programs typically take 6-12 months, associate degrees require about two years, and bachelor’s degrees take four years. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field usually take 6-18 months to complete.
Are ABA-approved programs better than non-approved programs?
ABA approval indicates a program meets rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student services. Many employers prefer or require graduation from ABA-approved programs, and some professional certifications have educational requirements that specify ABA approval. While non-approved programs can provide quality education, ABA approval generally enhances employment prospects.
Can I work as a paralegal without a degree?
Yes, Minnesota doesn’t require formal education to work as a paralegal. Some people enter the field through on-the-job training. However, most employers prefer candidates with formal paralegal education, and having a certificate or degree significantly improves job prospects and earning potential in today’s competitive market.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in Minnesota?
The job outlook is strong. Minnesota expects to add 620 paralegal positions between 2022 and 2032, representing 10% growth. The state averages 620 annual job openings, including both new positions and replacement needs. The Minneapolis-St. Paul area ranks 19th nationally for paralegal employment opportunities.
What’s the difference between certificated and certified paralegals?
A certificated paralegal has completed an educational certificate program and received a certificate of completion. A certified paralegal has passed a national certification exam (such as PACE, PCCE, CLA/CP, or PP) demonstrating professional competence. Minnesota also offers the state-specific Minnesota Certified Paralegal (MnCP) credential through the Minnesota Paralegal Association.
Which paralegal association should I join in Minnesota?
The Minnesota Paralegal Association (MPA) is the state’s primary organization and offers the most comprehensive resources for Minnesota paralegals, including networking, continuing education, and the MnCP credential. NALS Twin Cities serves legal professionals throughout the metro area. If you work in western Minnesota, the Red River Valley Paralegal Association provides regional networking and CLE opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota has no mandatory certification requirements, but formal education significantly improves career prospects and earning potential
- Paralegals earn a median salary of $67,320 annually, with top earners making $98,480 or more, and Minnesota consistently ranks among the top 10 states nationally
- The state offers 13 paralegal programs ranging from certificates to bachelor’s degrees, with multiple online and hybrid options available
- Minnesota expects 10% job growth through 2032, creating 620 new positions and averaging 620 annual openings
- The Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area ranks 19th nationally for paralegal employment and offers the highest salaries in the state at $73,450
- Professional development opportunities include the Minnesota Paralegal Association, NALS Twin Cities, and the state-specific MnCP credential
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Minnesota?
Explore ABA-approved programs in Minneapolis-St. Paul and across the state. Take the first step toward joining one of the nation’s highest-paid paralegal workforces.
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.
