Paralegals assist attorneys with legal research, document preparation, and case management. You’ll typically need an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, though certificate programs are available. The median salary is $61,010 annually (2024 BLS data), with 1.2% job growth projected through 2033.
If you’re wondering how to become a paralegal or whether it’s the right career move for you, you’ve come to the right place. Paralegals provide essential legal support services for practicing attorneys in law firms, corporate legal offices, and government agencies. There are numerous opportunities within the profession to specialize in an area of law that speaks to your interests.
From “How much do paralegals make?” to “What degree does a paralegal need?” we’ve got answers to all your most significant questions related to becoming a paralegal. This comprehensive Q&A resource addresses the most common questions about paralegal education, certification, career paths, and salary expectations.
Whether you’re just starting to explore the profession or you’re ready to enroll in a program, you’ll find clear answers to help you make informed decisions about your paralegal career.
What is a Paralegal?
Paralegals assist practicing attorneys with many of the intricate, practical aspects of a given case, without providing legal advice or services to clients. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a paralegal is an individual who “performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.” Similarly, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) identifies a paralegal as a person who “performs substantive legal work that requires knowledge of legal concepts and is customarily, but not exclusively, performed by a lawyer.”
State bar associations also have their own definitions of paralegals. For example, the State Bar of California defines a paralegal as an individual who “assists with case planning, development, and management, legal research, interviews clients, gathers facts and retrieves information, drafts and analyzes legal documents, and collects, compiles, and utilizes technical information, to make recommendations to an attorney.”
It’s essential to understand what paralegals cannot do. A paralegal is not allowed to practice law under any circumstances. They cannot represent clients in court, offer legal services, or provide legal advice to the public. All states restrict paralegals from giving legal guidance or advice and require them to perform nearly all work under the direct supervision of an attorney, with few exceptions.
What Does a Paralegal Do?
Daily Responsibilities
Paralegals perform “substantive” legal services under the supervision of a practicing lawyer. Although their job duties vary according to their industry or the type of law their firm practices, the scope of a paralegal’s job skills includes:
- Drafting legal notices, including discovery requests, notices, motions, and summaries of depositions
- Locating, contacting, and interviewing witnesses and assisting in the preparation of witness testimony
- Organizing trial exhibits and files
- Performing clerical duties, including talking to clients, filing documents, drafting letters and other documents, and organizing client files
- Conducting legal research and case law analysis
- Managing case files and maintaining organized documentation systems
Where permitted by statutory authority or court rule, independent paralegals can perform certain limited legal services without attorney supervision. This includes services such as document preparation and court representation in select circumstances.
What Are the Different Types of Paralegals?
Many types of paralegals specialize in specific areas of the law. Their job duties are tailored to the area in which their firm practices. Here are some of the most common specializations:
Bankruptcy Law Paralegals
Bankruptcy paralegals focus on providing legal services to businesses or entities at risk of defaulting on their financial obligations and subsequently filing for bankruptcy. They need a firm grasp of both legal and financial matters. They handle bankruptcy court petitions, prepare and organize financial documents, review credit reports, liaise with creditors, and take on other similar responsibilities.
Criminal Law Paralegals
Paralegals in criminal law may be required to do everything from preparing for pre-trial hearings to providing attorney support with jury selection, drafting post-trial motions, and identifying accomplices, witnesses, and accessories to a crime. Both a criminal prosecution and a criminal defense paralegal, though positioned on opposite sides of a given case, will have many of the same responsibilities throughout a trial.
Intellectual Property Paralegals
An intellectual property paralegal often performs duties such as preparing applications for trademarks, patents, and copyrights, conducting intellectual property research, and assisting attorneys involved in intellectual property licensing and litigation. They also assist attorneys throughout the court process by drafting pleadings, conducting research to locate case law, conducting discovery, and preparing exhibits.
Probate and Estate Planning Paralegals
Probate and estate planning paralegals assist with the preparation of estate planning documents, such as powers of attorney, wills, and trusts. They also assist lawyers in opening probate proceedings and distributing the estate, including evaluating estate assets and drafting court forms, orders, petitions, and court filings.
Real Estate Law Paralegals
Property law paralegals are involved in drafting and preparing mortgage notes, HUD forms, title transfers, title insurance, title examinations, property lease agreements, and deeds, among others. They assist attorneys in cases involving landlord-tenant relationships, mortgages, easements, eminent domain, and real estate transactions.
Family Law Paralegals
Family law paralegals work alongside attorneys involved in any number of family law matters, including divorce, alimony, child custody, child abuse or neglect, guardianship, paternity, domestic violence, and property division due to divorce.
How Much Do Paralegals Make?
If you’re wondering whether paralegals are well compensated, you’ll be glad to know that paralegals enjoy a healthy salary range. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual paralegal salary was $61,010 in 2024. Your actual earnings will depend on your location, experience level, specialization, and the type of employer you work for.
Salary by Experience Level
Paralegal salaries vary significantly based on experience. Here’s what you can expect to earn at different career stages based on 2024 BLS data:
| Experience Level | Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | 10th | $39,710 | $19.09 |
| Early Career | 25th | $47,490 | $22.83 |
| Mid-Career | 50th (Median) | $61,010 | $29.33 |
| Experienced | 75th | $77,980 | $37.49 |
| Senior/Expert | 90th | $98,990 | $47.59 |
The average (mean) salary for all paralegals is $66,510 annually, which is slightly higher than the median due to higher earners in specialized fields and senior positions.
Salary by Industry
How much paralegals make varies significantly by industry and employer type. According to 2024 BLS data, paralegals working for the federal government earned an average salary of $81,870. Paralegals working in local government earned an average salary of $63,830, while their state-level counterparts took home an average of $59,460.
The industries offering the highest average paralegal salaries in 2024 were:
- Motor vehicle manufacturing: $125,710
- Oil and gas extraction: $121,830
- Publishing: $121,260
- Federal government: $81,870
- Computer systems design: $78,920
Geographic location also plays a significant role in paralegal compensation. For detailed salary information in your state or city, explore our comprehensive paralegal salary guide.
Where Do Paralegals Work?
Paralegals can work in a variety of workplaces and industries. Most work at law firms, from independent attorneys and small partnerships to large multinational firms with thousands of attorneys. The work environment and specialization opportunities vary greatly by firm size and practice area.
Paralegals can also work in the business sector, with jobs in the legal departments of corporations, insurance companies, banks, hospitals, and research firms. These positions often focus on contract management, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance matters.
You’ll also find paralegal jobs in local, state, and federal government agencies that have a legal department, either as part of its core function or to deal with internal issues. Government paralegals often work on cases involving public interest, regulatory compliance, and administrative law.
Paralegals can also work as freelancers or independent contractors, offering services to attorneys on an as-needed basis. This arrangement provides flexibility but requires strong self-management skills and business acumen.
Job Market & Outlook
For those wondering about employment prospects in the field, you’ll be glad to know that paralegal jobs remain in steady demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the U.S. profession will grow by 1.2% between 2023 and 2033. While this is slightly below the 4% projected for all occupations, the field remains stable, with consistent opportunities.
Attorneys looking to control costs are increasingly turning to paralegals to handle many of the firm’s day-to-day functions. This makes getting a job as a paralegal accessible for qualified candidates. The BLS projects approximately 44,000 job openings for paralegals each year through 2033, primarily from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the workforce.
The demand for paralegals tends to be strongest in metropolitan areas with large legal communities and in regions experiencing economic growth. Specializations in areas such as corporate law, intellectual property, and healthcare law often experience stronger demand than other practice areas.
What Degree Does a Paralegal Need?
To become a paralegal, you’ll generally follow this process: earn your paralegal degree and fulfill education requirements, gain experience working with a practicing attorney, complete voluntary professional certification if desired, and continue learning throughout your career.
There are no legal standards for paralegal education and training requirements in most states, nor is there mandatory licensure or certification. However, many law firms and corporations have their own minimum standards for hiring a paralegal.
Degree Options Overview
Most paralegals have completed at least an undergraduate certificate program in paralegal studies. Associate and bachelor’s degrees are often accepted as entry-level credentials. At the same time, post-degree certificate programs (typically 6-12 months) can help anyone who already holds a degree in another field make a career change into the paralegal profession.
| Degree Type | Duration | Best For | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 3-12 months | Quick entry, testing the field | $3,000-$7,000 |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Entry-level positions, high school grads | $10,000-$25,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | Competitive positions, advancement | $40,000-$100,000+ |
| Post-Degree Certificate | 6-12 months | Career changers with an existing degree | $5,000-$15,000 |
| Master’s Degree | 1-2 years | Specialization, management roles | $20,000-$60,000 |
Certificate Programs
A paralegal certificate can serve as an entry-level option for aspiring paralegals without a paralegal degree. You can earn a paralegal certificate with just a high school diploma or GED. This is not to be confused with exam-based professional paralegal certification, which requires a degree and extensive experience working as a paralegal.
Even more common are post-degree paralegal certificates, intended for those who have a degree in a field other than paralegal studies and are looking to switch careers without having to obtain yet another full degree. Entry-level certificate programs typically take 3-12 months, while post-degree certificates usually take 6-12 months (though some can extend to 18 months). All certificate programs focus specifically on legal courses to get you into the field quickly.
With a paralegal certificate, your coursework will be entirely specific to what you need to know as a paralegal. You don’t receive any general education classes (such as math or science) as part of any full degree program. That’s also why a paralegal certificate program is so much shorter than earning a full degree.
Associate Degree
An associate degree in paralegal studies typically takes two years to complete and is one of the most common entry points into the profession. This degree combines general education courses with paralegal-specific training to provide a well-rounded foundation.
Associate degree programs often include coursework in legal research and writing, civil litigation, contract law, criminal law, family law, and legal ethics. Many programs also offer internship opportunities that provide valuable hands-on experience.
Many law firms require at minimum an associate degree for paralegal positions, making this a solid investment for those serious about entering the field.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies typically takes four years to complete and opens doors to more competitive positions and higher starting salaries. Many larger firms and corporate legal departments prefer or require candidates to have a bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor’s programs offer more opportunities for specialization through elective courses in areas like corporate law, intellectual property, environmental law, or healthcare law. They also provide stronger preparation for advanced certification and potential future law school enrollment.
Often, the bachelor’s degree itself doesn’t need to be specifically in paralegal studies. Many successful paralegals have undergraduate degrees in related fields like criminal justice, political science, or business, combined with a post-bachelor’s certificate in paralegal studies.
Post-Degree Certificate Programs
Post-degree certificate programs are specifically designed for career changers who already hold an associate or bachelor’s degree in another field. These programs typically take 6-12 months to complete, though some can extend to 18 months depending on whether you’re studying full-time or part-time. They focus exclusively on paralegal-specific coursework.
This is one of the most popular routes into the profession for professionals making a career change. The programs are efficient and cost-effective, and they recognize the value of your existing education while providing the specialized knowledge needed to work as a paralegal.
Master’s Degree Programs
Once you’ve gained experience in the field, you may choose to pursue a Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree or similar advanced degree. While there are no accredited master’s programs specifically in “paralegal studies,” MLS programs and related degrees allow you to specialize in a specific area of law and are particularly valuable for those interested in supervisory or management positions.
A Master of Legal Studies degree can significantly boost both your standing in the profession and your earning potential. These programs often allow you to concentrate on areas like corporate compliance, contracts management, or legal administration.
Do Paralegals Need Certification?
Professional certification is voluntary but can help you stand out from your competition, land a better job, advance in your current position, or qualify for a pay increase. Certification demonstrates your competence to employers and clients and shows your commitment to the profession.
National Certifications
To earn your paralegal certification, you’ll need to provide proof of your experience in the profession, complete continuing education courses, and pass a certification exam through one of the three national paralegal organizations:
| Organization | Certification | Key Requirements | Exam Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| NALA: The Paralegal Association | Certified Paralegal (CP) Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) | Education + experience, or experience alone, with a higher threshold | Legal procedures, research, ethics, substantive law |
| NFPA: National Federation of Paralegal Associations | Certified Registered Paralegal (CRP) Registered Paralegal (RP) | Associate degree + experience | Communication, research, legal concepts, and ethical principles |
| NALS: The Association for Legal Professionals | Professional Paralegal (PP) NALS Specialty Certificate | Varies by certification level | Legal knowledge, skills, ethics |
Each organization has different eligibility requirements, exam formats, and continuing education requirements. Research each certification to determine which best fits your career goals and qualifications.
State Certifications
Several state bars and paralegal associations also offer voluntary state certification for paralegals. Other states have developed certification opportunities for paralegals who can perform specific duties. For example, California has a certification process that allows paralegals to meet specific regulatory requirements.
Check with your state bar association to see what certification options are available in your jurisdiction. Some employers may prefer or require state-specific certification in addition to or instead of national accreditation.
How Do I Become a Paralegal?
The right educational path depends on your current situation and career goals. Here’s guidance based on typical scenarios:
For High School Graduates
As a high school graduate, you can choose to pursue anything from a paralegal certificate program to an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies.
A certificate program is often helpful for high school grads looking to dip their toes into the profession, or for those seeking employment and experience while earning a full paralegal degree. Keep in mind that many institutions don’t transfer paralegal certificate program credits to a degree program, so plan accordingly.
An associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies is your best bet to get your foot in the door at a law firm or legal department, as many organizations require one or the other as a minimum educational standard for hire. An associate degree balances time investment with career readiness, while a bachelor’s degree opens doors to more competitive positions.
For Career Changers
Suppose you already hold a degree in another field. In that case, you may qualify for admission into a post-associate or post-bachelor’s certificate program in paralegal studies specifically designed for career changers.
This is one of the most efficient paths into the profession. You’ll complete only the paralegal-specific coursework you need without repeating general education requirements. Most post-degree certificate programs can be completed in 12-24 months, either full-time or part-time, to accommodate working professionals. Suppose you have a bachelor’s degree in another field. In that case, you may also qualify for a graduate certificate in paralegal studies or even choose to pursue a Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree.
For Legal Support Professionals
If you work in a legal support role, such as a file clerk or legal secretary, and you haven’t already earned a paralegal degree, a paralegal certificate program can give you the foundation of knowledge needed to make the change. If you already hold a degree in a different field, this may be all you need to switch roles within your profession.
Your existing work experience in a legal environment is valuable and will help you understand the practical applications of what you’re learning. Many employers support professional development for current employees, so check if your firm offers tuition assistance or flexible scheduling for continuing education.
For Advancement to Management
Suppose you have an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies and want to become a paralegal supervisor or manager. In that case, the best way to advance is by completing an advanced degree. Bachelor’s degrees (if you have an associate’s) and Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degrees allow practicing paralegals to focus their studies on a specific area of law and gain the insight and knowledge needed to take on supervisory roles in larger firms and corporations.
Consider pursuing professional certification in addition to advanced degrees. Credentials like the NALA Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) or NFPA’s specialized certifications demonstrate expertise in specific practice areas and can strengthen your candidacy for management positions.
How Do I Pay for Paralegal Education?
Just like any other degree, you have multiple options for financing your paralegal education program. Planning and exploring all available resources can make your education more affordable.
Federal Financial Aid: Federal student aid is available through loans and grants. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and student loans. This should be your first step in the financial aid process.
Institutional Scholarships: Apply for scholarships through your chosen college or university. Many schools offer merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and special scholarships for specific student populations.
Professional Organization Scholarships: There are sponsored scholarships available through professional and non-profit paralegal organizations. The National Federation of Paralegal Associations, NALA, and state paralegal associations often offer scholarships to students pursuing paralegal education.
Employer Tuition Assistance: If you’re currently working, check whether your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement programs. Many legal employers support professional development for employees interested in advancing their careers.
Payment Plans: Many schools offer payment plans that allow you to spread tuition costs over several months, making education more manageable without taking on debt.
Research all options early in your planning process. Combining multiple funding sources often provides the best way to cover educational costs.
Is a Paralegal Career Right for You?
A paralegal career is an excellent choice for anyone fascinated by the law. Suppose the client-facing and years of schooling required to become an attorney don’t appeal to you. In that case, a paralegal career allows you to enjoy still the aspects of the legal system that you love, especially if you’re drawn to the research and writing part of the job.
Successful paralegals typically have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. You’ll need to be comfortable working under deadlines and handling confidential information with discretion. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as you’ll draft documents and communicate with clients, attorneys, and court personnel.
Consider whether you enjoy problem-solving and analytical thinking. Much of a paralegal’s work involves researching legal issues, analyzing documents, and synthesizing information from multiple sources. If you find satisfaction in detailed work and helping others navigate complex systems, you may thrive in this profession.
On the flip side, starting as a paralegal can be an excellent runway to a career as a practicing attorney. Many people interested in the law wonder whether earning a paralegal education will help them get into law school. The experience and expertise you gain during your paralegal job can be invaluable when it comes to your law school classes and taking the bar exam, since you’ve already been performing the duties you’re learning about.
Think about work-life balance and career trajectory. While paralegal positions generally offer more regular hours than attorney positions, workload can vary significantly by practice area and employer. Corporate and government positions often provide more predictable schedules, while litigation paralegals may face crunch times during trial preparation.
Where Can I Learn More?
We have extensive information right here on this site to help you find answers to questions about your paralegal career path. Explore our guides on paralegal salaries by state, paralegal certificate programs, and specialized paralegal careers.
You can also find valuable information through these professional organizations:
- American Bar Association – Standing Committee on Paralegals
- National Federation of Paralegal Associations
- NALA: The Paralegal Association
- American Association for Paralegal Education
- NALS: The Association for Legal Professionals
These organizations provide continuing education opportunities, networking events, certification programs, and job boards to support your paralegal career development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree does a paralegal need?
Typically, you need at least an associate degree in paralegal studies to get started working as a paralegal. However, many law firms require a bachelor’s degree as their minimum education level for hire. Often, the bachelor’s degree itself doesn’t need to be in paralegal studies. One of the most common routes into the profession is a post-bachelor’s certificate in paralegal studies that can be stacked on a bachelor’s degree in any major. You may also pursue a master’s degree in paralegal studies once you’ve gained experience in the field.
What is the difference between a paralegal degree and a certificate?
With a paralegal certificate, your coursework will be entirely specific to what you need to know as a paralegal. You don’t receive any general education classes (like math or science) that are included in degree programs. That’s why a paralegal certificate program is so much shorter than earning a full degree, typically just a few months. A paralegal degree will include required general education topics in addition to paralegal-specific coursework. These courses qualify you for an associate or bachelor’s degree, which can take anywhere from two to four years to complete.
How much do paralegals make?
Paralegals enjoy a healthy salary range, though it varies by location, experience, and industry. According to 2024 BLS data, the median annual paralegal salary was $61,010. Entry-level paralegals (10th percentile) earn around $39,710 annually, while experienced paralegals (90th percentile) can earn $98,990 or more. The average (mean) salary is $66,510. Federal government positions offer some of the highest average salaries at $81,870.
Are paralegal certificates worth it?
Absolutely, especially if you’re not yet entirely sure whether the paralegal profession is the perfect fit for you or if you’re making a career change, it’s far less of a time and budget commitment than a full degree, and can help you get valuable experience to take that next step in your career, possibly. Post-degree certificates are particularly valuable for career changers who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, allowing you to enter the profession quickly without repeating general education courses.
How do you become a certified paralegal?
To earn your paralegal certification, you’ll need to provide proof of your experience in the profession, complete continuing education courses, and pass a certification exam through one of the three national paralegal organizations: NALA (offering the Certified Paralegal designation), NFPA (offering the Certified Registered Paralegal designation), or NALS (offering the Professional Paralegal designation). Each organization has different eligibility requirements and exam formats. Several state bars and paralegal associations also provide voluntary state certification opportunities.
What kind of jobs can paralegals get?
Paralegals can work in a variety of workplaces and industries. Most work at law firms, from independent attorneys and small partnerships to large multinational firms with thousands of attorneys. Paralegals can also work in the business sector, with jobs in the legal departments of corporations, insurance companies, banks, hospitals, and research firms. You’ll also find paralegal jobs in local, state, and federal government agencies. Paralegals can also work as freelancers or independent contractors, offering services to attorneys on an as-needed basis.
How long does it take to become a paralegal?
The time it takes to become a paralegal varies based on your chosen education route. A paralegal certificate can be completed in 3-12 months; an associate degree typically takes 2 years; a bachelor’s degree takes 4 years; and post-degree certificate programs for career changers usually take 6-12 months (though some extend to 18 months). If you’re currently working full-time, many programs offer part-time or online options that may extend the timeline but provide flexibility.
Is a paralegal career a good choice?
A paralegal career is an excellent choice for anyone fascinated by the law who enjoys research, writing, and organization. The profession offers stable employment, competitive salaries (median $61,010 in 2024), and opportunities across various specializations. Suppose the client-facing aspects and years of schooling required to become an attorney don’t appeal to you. In that case, a paralegal career allows you to work within the legal system, focusing on research and analysis. The field also provides a strong foundation if you later decide to pursue law school.
What are the job prospects for paralegals?
Paralegal jobs remain in steady demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the U.S. profession will grow by 1.2% between 2023 and 2033, with approximately 44,000 job openings each year. While this is slightly below the 4% projected for all occupations, the field remains stable, with consistent opportunities. Attorneys looking to control costs are increasingly relying on paralegals to handle day-to-day functions, making qualified candidates accessible to employment. Demand tends to be strongest in metropolitan areas and in specializations such as corporate law and intellectual property.
Will paralegal education help if I want to go to law school?
Yes, the experience and expertise you gain during your paralegal education and job can be invaluable when it comes to law school classes and taking the bar exam, since you’ve already been performing many of the duties you’ll be learning about. Working as a paralegal before law school provides practical context for legal concepts, helps you develop research and writing skills, and gives you insight into whether practicing law is the right career path for you. Many law students find that their paralegal background gives them a significant advantage in understanding legal procedures and court systems.
Key Takeaways
- Paralegals assist attorneys with legal research, document preparation, and case management, but cannot provide legal advice or represent clients in court.
- The median paralegal salary is $61,010 annually (2024 BLS data), with entry-level positions starting around $39,710 and experienced paralegals earning $98,990 or more.
- Education requirements vary from certificate programs (3-12 months) to bachelor’s degrees (4 years), with post-degree certificates being a popular option for career changers.
- Professional certification through NALA, NFPA, or NALS is voluntary but can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
- The profession offers 1.2% job growth through 2033 with approximately 44,000 annual job openings, providing steady employment opportunities.
- Paralegals can specialize in areas like bankruptcy, criminal law, intellectual property, estate planning, real estate, and family law.
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career?
Explore accredited paralegal programs in your area and take the first step toward a rewarding legal career. Compare program options, costs, and schedules to find the perfect fit for your goals.
Salary Disclaimer: 2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and US job data for Paralegals and Legal Assistants reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed December 2025.
