Pennsylvania doesn’t require paralegals to hold formal certification or meet specific educational standards by law. However, the voluntary Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (PaCP) credential through the Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations offers professional recognition. Paralegals in Pennsylvania earned an average salary of $65,920 in May 2024, with the top 10% earning $94,990 annually.
Mark your calendar for July 26th and celebrate Paralegal Day in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania was among the first states to officially recognize paralegals with their own day and an entire week, having established Paralegal Week through a proclamation by Governor Mark Schweiker in 2002. While other states have similar observances, Pennsylvania’s recognition is among the most formalized. It’s a fitting tribute to the 14,130 paralegals working across the state, making Pennsylvania the sixth-largest employer of paralegal professionals in the nation.
From Pittsburgh to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania’s thriving legal sector spans diverse industries. Healthcare giants like UPMC and Penn Medicine, corporate powerhouses like PPG Industries and United States Steel, and major law firms throughout the state create exciting opportunities for paralegals. Whether you’re drawn to corporate law in Philadelphia’s headquarters district, litigation in Pittsburgh’s established firms, or public service in one of the nation’s largest unified court systems, Pennsylvania offers a robust professional landscape for paralegal careers.
Regulatory Framework
Pennsylvania takes a non-regulatory approach to paralegal practice, which means you won’t find mandatory licensing requirements or state-mandated educational standards. This gives aspiring paralegals flexibility in choosing their path into the profession, whether through formal education, on-the-job training, or a combination of both.
That said, Pennsylvania’s legal framework does establish clear boundaries for paralegal practice. Under Pennsylvania Supreme Court Rule 5.3, attorneys are directly responsible for supervising their paralegal employees. This supervision includes providing guidance on ethical and confidentiality matters, as well as overseeing the professional conduct of paralegal staff. Paralegals cannot represent themselves as professionals authorized to provide legal advice or deliver legal services independently of attorney supervision.
While certification isn’t required by law, the voluntary Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (PaCP) credential has become increasingly valued by employers who seek to ensure their paralegal staff meet recognized standards of competence and professionalism. If you’re curious about how to become a paralegal, Pennsylvania’s flexible requirements make it an accessible state to enter the profession.
Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (PaCP) Program
The Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal Credential (PaCP) Program was developed by the Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations (KAPA) to establish a benchmark for paralegal qualifications and demonstrate commitment to continued learning within the field. Certification shows employers you’ve met specific education and experience guidelines and signals your dedication to professional excellence.
PaCPs must renew their certification every two years after completing continuing legal education (CLE) hours. This renewal requirement ensures certified paralegals stay current with evolving legal practices, technologies, and ethical standards.
To qualify for the PaCP credential, you must be working as a paralegal and meet one of the following educational and experience pathways:
- A bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies from an ABA-approved paralegal program and one year of substantive work experience as a paralegal
- A bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited educational institution, completion of a certificate program or associate degree in paralegal studies from an ABA-approved program, and one year of substantive work experience as a paralegal
- A bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited educational institution and three years of substantive work experience as a paralegal
- An associate degree in paralegal studies and five years of substantive work experience as a paralegal
- A certificate from a paralegal certificate program and five years of substantive work experience as a paralegal
- National certification as a CLA, CP, or RP (or other paralegal certification recognized by KAPA) and two years of substantive work experience as a paralegal
Employers, KAPA, and national paralegal associations may prefer that your paralegal studies program or degree come from an accredited institution or carry American Bar Association (ABA) approval. Research these criteria before selecting your educational program.
National Certification Options
It’s essential to understand the distinction between paralegal certificates and paralegal certification. Certificates are earned by completing a paralegal educational program. When you successfully finish your program of study, you receive a certificate of completion and become a certificated paralegal.
Certification, on the other hand, is a professional credential earned by meeting eligibility requirements and passing a certification exam offered by a national paralegal association. Once certified, you become a certified paralegal. Currently, three professional organizations offer four national certification exams:
- The PACE (Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam) offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The PCCE (Paralegal CORE Competency Exam) also provided by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The CLA/CP (Certified Legal Assistant/Certified Paralegal) is offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- The PP (Professional Paralegal) offered by the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS)
The PaCP program recognizes national certification as a pathway to becoming state certified, often with reduced experience requirements. If you’re already nationally certified, you may qualify for PaCP with just two years of paralegal work experience.
Paralegal Education & Schools in Pennsylvania
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 handle has increased significantly. Law offices and other employers in Pennsylvania 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.
When choosing the right paralegal program, consider several factors. How much will it cost? Does it offer online courses? Can you enroll part-time? Since no two schools are alike, it’s essential to take your time and weigh your options. The schools listed below represent Pennsylvania’s diverse paralegal education landscape, from community colleges to universities, offering everything from certificates to bachelor’s degrees.
Berks Technical Institute
ASB-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
Berks Technical Institute is a two-year private, for-profit post-secondary school in Wyomissing that offers an Associate of Specialized Business (ASB) in Paralegal degree program. The program requires students to complete 98 quarter credit hours to graduate successfully. The curriculum is delivered in a hybrid format that combines classroom instruction, online coursework, and an externship. Program leaders are particularly proud of the mandatory externship component, in which instructors help students find positions at local law offices, private law firms, and the nearby courthouse.
Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges & Schools
Bradford School
ASB-Paralegal (Campus)
Bradford School is a two-year private, for-profit post-secondary school in Pittsburgh that primarily offers diploma and specialized associate degree programs. The ASB program contains 63 credit hours over 16 months. Curriculum is covered through hands-on classroom instruction that culminates in an eight-week externship project. To facilitate academic excellence, students are taught in small class sizes by faculty members with experience in the legal field.
Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges & Schools
Bucks County Community College
AA-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
Certificate-Paralegal Studies (Campus, post-associate/post-baccalaureate)
Bucks County Community College is a two-year public post-secondary school in Newtown with an outstanding paralegal program recognized by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The AA program consists of 63 credit hours. The certificate program is 30 credit hours and is available only to students who already possess an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Both programs are designed explicitly for job preparedness. Students complete a 120-hour internship/capstone course during their final semester, enhanced by seminar sessions with classmates.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Central Pennsylvania College
AS-Paralegal (Campus)
BS in Legal Studies (Campus)
Central Pennsylvania College is a four-year private, for-profit college in Summerdale that offers an associate degree in paralegal emphasizing hands-on learning. The AS program covers 76 credit hours and boasts personalized instruction, high-quality coursework, and an extensive 360-hour internship.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
BSBA-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
AS-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
Advanced Paralegal Studies Certificate (Campus, post-baccalaureate)
Advanced Paralegal Studies Oil and Gas Certificate (Campus)
Clarion University of Pennsylvania is a four-year public university within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Its paralegal program was ranked the most affordable ABA-approved paralegal program in Western Pennsylvania, making it particularly attractive to financially conscious students.
The BSBA program includes 48 credit hours of classroom instruction taught by experienced attorneys and has been approved by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International. Only students at the Clarion campus can access this program.
The AS program requires 68 credit hours of coursework that is distinctly business-oriented, intended to prepare students for entry-level jobs or to provide a pathway to the BSBA program. This program is available at the Clarion and Venango campuses.
Both certificate programs consist of 24 credit hours. To become eligible, incoming students must possess a bachelor’s degree, have completed at least 60 credits from a post-secondary school, or be currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program at Clarion University. Certificate programs are available only at the Clarion and Venango campuses.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Community College of Philadelphia
AAS-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
Certificate-Paralegal Studies (Campus, post-associate/post-baccalaureate)
Community College of Philadelphia is a two-year public post-secondary school offering a progressive associate degree and certificate program in paralegal studies. The AAS program contains 60 credit hours, but students who already hold a bachelor’s degree or have completed most general education requirements can jump on the accelerated degree track.
The accelerated degree option can be finished in just eight months and allows students to attend day, night, evening, or online courses to move through the program quickly. The AAS program offers a wide range of optional activities, including guest lectures, field trips, and internship opportunities.
The certificate program comprises 27 credit hours and is available exclusively to students who already hold a bachelor’s or associate degree. The curriculum includes a 120-hour internship, supplemented by weekly seminars and private meetings with course instructors.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Consolidated School of Business
ASB-Legal Administrative Assistant (Campus)
Consolidated School of Business is a two-year private, for-profit post-secondary school in York. The ASB program runs for 77 credit hours over 18 months. Although the program’s curriculum centers on core courses in communications and office technology, students also take specialized law courses such as civil litigation, torts, and contracts.
Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
Delaware County Community College
AAS-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
Certificate-Paralegal Studies (Campus, post-baccalaureate)
Delaware County Community College is a two-year public post-secondary school in Media that houses an AAS and post-degree certificate program in paralegal studies. The AAS program requires 61-63 credit hours, while the certificate program mandates 36-37 credit hours.
To help students easily transition from the classroom to the professional arena, both programs feature a 180-hour internship course that combines practical fieldwork in real-world legal settings with weekly discussions about the complex facets of legal ethics.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Duquesne University
Certificate-Paralegal Studies (Campus, non-credit, post-associate/post-baccalaureate)
Duquesne University is a four-year private Catholic university in Pittsburgh offering a non-credit paralegal certificate from the university’s School of Law. The certificate program contains 33 continuing education units (CEUs) earned throughout 10 courses. Students take a 160-hour internship for 10 weeks to develop practical skills.
Although the program is available at the start of each term, there’s an accelerated track option for students who enroll during the summer semester. The school allows students to set their own pace through both part-time and full-time enrollment options. This program is only available to students who hold an associate degree or higher.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Gannon University
BA-Legal Studies/Paralegal (Campus)
AA-Legal Studies/Paralegal (Campus)
Certificate-Legal Studies (Campus, post-associate/post-baccalaureate)
Gannon University is a four-year private Catholic university in Erie providing a bachelor’s degree, associate degree, and certificate in legal studies/paralegal. All three programs are taught entirely by attorneys and paralegals.
The BA program requires 128 credits and is specifically geared toward students seeking advanced positions in the legal assistant/paralegal field. The AA program covers 67 credit hours, with all work applicable toward a four-year degree. The certificate program spans 25 credits, and students may pursue it while earning a four-year degree. Classroom instruction is greatly enhanced through internship participation in all programs.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Harrisburg Area Community College
AA-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
Paralegal Certificate (Campus, post-baccalaureate)
Harrisburg Area Community College is a two-year public post-secondary school that owns the bragging rights as being the largest and oldest community college in the state. The school proudly offers an associate degree and post-degree certificate in paralegal at its Harrisburg and Lancaster campuses.
The AA program contains 61 credit hours and helps students qualify for entry-level positions or transfer to a four-year university. The certificate program holds 39 credit hours and must be completed within three semesters. Only students with a bachelor’s degree are eligible for the certificate program. Students can enroll during spring, summer, and fall semesters. Both programs encourage participation in internship elective courses.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Lansdale School of Business
ASB-Paralegal (Campus)
Lansdale School of Business is a two-year private, for-profit post-secondary school in North Wales with additional campuses in Phoenixville and Warminster. The school’s ASB program is packed with 70 credit hours and provides curriculum underscored by valuable courses in legal specialties, computer research, and practical legal skills.
Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges & Schools
Lehigh Carbon Community College
AAS-Paralegal Studies (Campus)
Certificate-Paralegal Studies (Campus, undergraduate)
Lehigh Carbon Community College is a two-year public post-secondary school in Schnecksville with satellite sites in Allentown, Tamaqua, Jim Thorpe, and Lehigh Valley International Airport. The AAS program requires 63-65 credit hours, including an internship. The school has a collaborative agreement with Kutztown University for students wishing to major in Criminal Justice.
The certificate program spans 39 credit hours and includes an internship as an optional elective course. Although this isn’t a post-degree certificate, only students with at least 30 semester hours are eligible for admission.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Manor College
AS-Paralegal (Campus)
Certificate-Paralegal (Campus, post-baccalaureate)
Manor College is a two-year private Catholic college in Jenkintown offering an associate degree and certificate in paralegal. The AS degree is 60-61 credit hours, while the certificate program is 30 credit hours. Students must already hold a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for the certificate program.
To help increase future employment potential, the program provides internship possibilities and job placement counseling to all students.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
McCann School of Business & Technology
ASB-Paralegal (Campus)
McCann School of Business & Technology is a two-year private, for-profit post-secondary school in Allentown with six campuses spread throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania. The ASB program is available at the school’s Pottsville campus and offers 96 credits over 18 months. Curriculum is presented in a hybrid format that integrates classroom instruction, group training activities, online learning, and an exciting externship.
Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges & Schools
Northampton Community College
AAS-Paralegal (Campus)
Northampton Community College is a two-year public post-secondary school in Bethlehem offering an associate degree in paralegal. The AAS program requires 63-64 credits to complete. Throughout the program, students are given the unique opportunity to handle pleadings, forms, and software commonly used across federal, state, and local practices. Attorneys teach most legal specialty courses, though some courses are only available during the fall semester.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Peirce College
BS-Paralegal (Campus/Online)
AS-Paralegal (Campus/Online)
Certificate-Paralegal (Campus/Online, post-baccalaureate)
Peirce College is a four-year private college in Center City, Philadelphia, that offers the only ABA-approved bachelor’s degree program in paralegal studies in the Philadelphia area. It also offers an associate degree and certificate paralegal options.
The BS program comprises 121 credits, while the AS program requires only 61. Students enrolled in either degree track are only obligated to complete four classroom-based foundation courses. All other classes are available online to accommodate hectic schedules.
The certificate program covers 31 credits over 10 specialty courses. The majority of these courses are available in-class, online, or a combination of both. All three paralegal programs culminate in a paralegal capstone or cooperative work experience.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Penn Foster
AS-Paralegal Studies (Online)
Penn Foster is a private, for-profit college in Scranton that offers an associate degree in paralegal studies, 100% achievable through online learning. It’s the ideal degree choice for students with active lifestyles. The AS program features 24 courses over four semesters. To complement the program’s online format, the school provides students with success coaches, webinars, progress tracking, and goal-setting tools. All semesters culminate in proctored examinations.
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Pennsylvania College of Technology
BS-Legal Assistant/Paralegal Studies (Campus)
AAS-Legal Assistant/Paralegal (Campus)
Certificate-Nurse/Health Care Paralegal Studies (Campus, post-associate/post-baccalaureate)
Pennsylvania College of Technology is a four-year public college in Williamsport closely affiliated with Pennsylvania State University. The school currently offers undergraduate degrees and a post-degree certificate in paralegal studies.
The BS program contains 110 credits over eight semesters and includes international field experience electives. Only students who hold an associate degree can gain admittance. The AAS program houses 62 credits over four semesters and facilitates professional experience through its paralegal internship component.
The certificate program supplies 21 credits over two semesters. This rare certificate program offers paralegal education through the lens of healthcare. Only students who hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree are invited to apply for admission.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Villanova University
Paralegal Certificate (Campus, post-baccalaureate)
Villanova University is a four-year private university offering full-time and part-time paralegal certificate track options. Both tracks require students to earn a bachelor’s degree prior to applying for enrollment.
The full-time track compiles 280 hours of instruction into a single semester. The part-time track is only available at the start of the fall semester, and students enrolled in this track must complete all 15 courses within nine months.
ABA-Approved: Yes
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Paralegal Salaries in Pennsylvania
State Salary Overview
Pennsylvania’s strong legal sector translates into competitive compensation for paralegals. As of May 2024, the average salary for paralegals in Pennsylvania was $65,920 annually ($31.69 per hour), which closely aligns with the national average salary for paralegals. But with experience and the credentials that today’s biggest employers demand, there’s plenty of room for growth in the Keystone State. The top 10% of paralegals here earn approximately $94,990 per year.
Pennsylvania paralegals also enjoy a salary advantage over their colleagues in neighboring states. During this same period, average salaries in Ohio reached $61,000, while West Virginia paralegals earned an average of $56,540. Pennsylvania’s diverse legal market and concentration of major employers contribute to these competitive wages.
Salary by City
The Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metro area ranks fifth among all cities nationwide for paralegal employment, with 10,970 professionals as of May 2024. It’s also where paralegals in the state earn the highest average and top 10% salaries. However, opportunities exist throughout Pennsylvania’s major metropolitan areas, each offering competitive compensation.
| Metropolitan Area | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Top 10% Annual Salary | Top 10% Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown | $58,740 | $28.24 | $77,150 | $37.09 |
| Chambersburg | $46,420 | $22.32 | $62,110 | $29.86 |
| Erie | $54,940 | $26.41 | $82,340 | $39.59 |
| Harrisburg | $58,690 | $28.21 | $76,390 | $36.72 |
| Johnstown | $49,760 | $23.93 | $78,200 | $37.60 |
| Lancaster | $57,880 | $27.83 | $75,780 | $36.43 |
| Lebanon | $56,950 | $27.38 | $71,720 | $34.48 |
| Philadelphia | $70,290 | $33.79 | $96,530 | $46.41 |
| Pittsburgh | $63,790 | $30.67 | $90,000 | $43.27 |
| Reading | $57,250 | $27.52 | $77,710 | $37.36 |
| Scranton | $55,940 | $26.89 | $75,100 | $36.11 |
| State College | $53,960 | $25.94 | $71,090 | $34.18 |
| Williamsport | $51,660 | $24.84 | $72,550 | $34.88 |
| York | $54,840 | $26.36 | $74,880 | $36.00 |
Job Market & Employment Outlook
Pennsylvania’s legal industry offers strong employment prospects for paralegals. With 14,130 paralegals currently employed across the state, Pennsylvania ranks sixth in the nation for paralegal employment. This robust job market stems from the state’s diverse legal sector, which spans major law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
The state projects approximately 1,190 annual paralegal job openings between 2022 and 2032, creating consistent opportunities for new graduates and career changers. These openings result from both job growth and the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force.
Pennsylvania’s legal sector is strongly represented throughout the state, with particular concentration in three key areas:
- Law Firms: Pennsylvania has exceptional law firms throughout the state, especially in Philadelphia, which is home to six of the state’s 10 largest firms. These firms handle everything from complex corporate transactions to high-stakes litigation, creating diverse opportunities for paralegals.
- Corporate Legal Teams: Pennsylvania serves as the headquarters for major companies like Comcast in Philadelphia, United States Steel in Pittsburgh, and Rite Aid near Harrisburg. These corporations maintain substantial in-house legal departments that rely on skilled paralegal professionals.
- Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania operates one of the largest unified state court systems in the nation, including municipal courts, courts of common pleas, commonwealth court, superior court, and the supreme court. This extensive court system creates ongoing demand for paralegals in public service roles.
Professional Associations
Pennsylvania is home to many paralegal associations that are part of a larger alliance known as the Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations (KAPA). Through KAPA, over 1,400 paralegals have representation in state and national conversations about the profession, access to information exchanges with other state and national organizations, and working relationships with others in the legal community. KAPA also developed and manages the Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal Credential (PaCP) program.
Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations (KAPA)
The Keystone Alliance consists of seven local organizations, each offering its own membership. Membership levels generally fall into these categories:
Voting Membership: Open to any employed paralegal who meets one of the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies
- Bachelor’s degree in any subject plus a paralegal certificate
- Associate degree in paralegal studies
- Paralegal certificate plus one year of paralegal work experience
- Two years of paralegal work experience
Student Membership: Open to anyone enrolled in a paralegal education program approved by the Keystone Alliance member or the ABA.
Associate Membership: Open to anyone who meets any of the following:
- Employed as a paralegal educator
- Previously employed as a paralegal or paralegal educator
- Completed a formal paralegal course of study
- Previously a Voting Member
- Currently employed as a paralegal but doesn’t meet qualifications for Voting Membership.
Sustaining Membership: Open to any individual or entity that supports the paralegal profession.
The local paralegal associations that make up the Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations are:
- Central Pennsylvania Paralegal Association (CPPA), affiliated with the NFPA
- Chester County Paralegal Association (CCPA)
- Delaware County Paralegal Association (DCPA)
- Lehigh County Paralegal Association (LCPA), affiliated with the NFPA
- Montgomery County Paralegal Association (MCPA), affiliated with the NFPA
- Philadelphia Association of Paralegals (PAP), affiliated with the NFPA
- Pittsburgh Paralegal Association (PPA), affiliated with the NFPA
These regional associations provide networking opportunities, continuing legal education (CLE) and professional development, job resources, mentoring programs, and social events to their members. Groups range in size from 30 members to 500 members, depending on the region. Students, educators, and active paralegals may join a regional association in the area where they live or work.
Other Pennsylvania Paralegal Organizations
Lancaster Area Paralegal Association (LAPA)
Affiliated with the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), LAPA has four levels of membership:
- Paralegal: Open to anyone currently employed as a paralegal and qualified through education, training, or work experience
- Paralegal Student: Open to recent paralegal graduates and those enrolled in a paralegal studies course that leads to employment
- Associate: Open to those from law firms, educational facilities, and other business entities that support the paralegal profession and LAPA
- Sustaining: Open to anyone who doesn’t qualify for any other type of membership but who is interested in supporting LAPA
NALS of Pennsylvania
This is the state-level affiliate of NALS that promotes NALS certification and membership at the following 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
NALS of Philadelphia is a local chapter of this association.
Major Legal Employers
Law firms often hire entry-level paralegals and can be excellent places to begin a career. The metro-Philadelphia and Pittsburgh areas are home to many large law firms, including:
- Eckert Seamans Cherin and Mellott
- K&L Gates
- Reed Smith
- Buchanan Ingersoll and Rooney
- White and Williams
- Drinker Biddle and Reath
- Blank Rome
- Saul Ewing
- Pepper Hamilton
- Dechert
- Stradley Ronon Stevens and Young
- Morgan, Lewis and Bockius
- Fox Rothschild
- Schnader Harrison Segal and Lewis
- Cozen O’Connor
- Duane Morris
- Marshall, Dennehey, Warner, Coleman and Goggin
- Ballard Spahr
Important Resources
The following resources provide valuable information for Pennsylvania paralegals:
- Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations (KAPA)
- Lancaster Area Paralegal Association (LAPA)
- York County Paralegal Association (YCPA)
- Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA)
- Pennsylvania Department of State
- Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania
Frequently Asked Questions
Is certification required to work as a paralegal in Pennsylvania?
No, Pennsylvania doesn’t require paralegals to hold formal certification or meet specific educational standards by law. However, the voluntary Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (PaCP) credential through the Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations has become increasingly valued by employers. Many paralegals choose to pursue certification to demonstrate their commitment to professional standards and enhance their career prospects.
What is the Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (PaCP) credential?
The PaCP is a voluntary state certification developed by the Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations (KAPA) to establish a benchmark for paralegal qualifications. To qualify, you must be working as a paralegal and meet specific combinations of education and experience requirements. The credential must be renewed every two years after completing continuing legal education (CLE) hours, ensuring certified paralegals stay current with evolving legal practices and ethical standards.
How much do paralegals earn in Pennsylvania?
As of May 2024, paralegals in Pennsylvania earned an average salary of $65,920 annually ($31.69 per hour). The top 10% of paralegals earn approximately $94,990 per year. Entry-level paralegals typically start at lower wages; the 10th percentile earns around $39,710 annually. Your actual earnings depend on factors including your location within the state, years of experience, specialization, employer type, and whether you hold professional certifications.
Which Pennsylvania cities pay paralegals the most?
Philadelphia offers the highest average paralegal salaries in Pennsylvania at $70,290 annually, with top earners making $96,530. The Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metro area ranks fifth in the nation for paralegal employment with 10,970 professionals. Pittsburgh follows with an average salary of $63,790 and top 10% earnings of $90,000. Other cities with competitive salaries include Harrisburg ($58,690 average), Allentown ($58,740 average), and Lancaster ($57,880 average).
How many ABA-approved paralegal programs are in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has 13 ABA-approved paralegal programs across the state, including both associate and bachelor’s degree options as well as post-baccalaureate certificates. These programs are offered at institutions ranging from community colleges to universities, providing diverse educational pathways. ABA approval is critical if you plan to pursue the Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (PaCP) credential, as several PaCP qualification pathways require completion of an ABA-approved program.
What are the membership requirements for KAPA member associations?
Voting membership is open to employed paralegals who meet one of several qualifications: a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, a bachelor’s degree in any subject plus a paralegal certificate, an associate degree in paralegal studies, a paralegal certificate plus one year of work experience, or two years of paralegal work experience. Student membership is available to those enrolled in ABA-approved or KAPA member-approved paralegal programs. Associate and Sustaining memberships are available to educators, former paralegals, and supporters of the profession.
How do I become nationally certified as a paralegal?
National certification is earned by passing one of four exams offered by professional paralegal associations: the PACE or PCCE from NFPA, the CLA/CP from NALA, or the PP from NALS. Each has specific eligibility requirements related to education and experience. National certification is distinct from educational certificates—it’s a professional credential demonstrating advanced competency. In Pennsylvania, holding a national certification can make you eligible for the state’s PaCP credential with just two years of paralegal work experience.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania’s paralegal job market is strong, with 14,130 paralegals currently employed—the sixth-highest number in the nation. The state projects approximately 1,190 annual paralegal job openings between 2022 and 2032. These opportunities span law firms (mainly concentrated in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh), corporate legal departments at major companies like Comcast and US Steel, and the extensive Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania. The diverse legal sector throughout the state creates consistent demand for qualified paralegal professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania doesn’t require mandatory paralegal certification, but the voluntary Pennsylvania Certified Paralegal (PaCP) credential demonstrates professional excellence and is increasingly valued by employers
- Pennsylvania ranks sixth in the nation for paralegal employment with 14,130 professionals, creating robust career opportunities across the state
- Paralegals in Pennsylvania earn an average salary of $65,920 annually, with Philadelphia offering the highest wages at $70,290 and top earners making $96,530
- The state offers 13 ABA-approved paralegal programs plus numerous non-ABA programs, providing diverse educational pathways from certificates to bachelor’s degrees
- Pennsylvania was among the first states to officially recognize Paralegal Day (July 26th) and Paralegal Week, reflecting the profession’s recognition and value
- The Keystone Alliance of Paralegal Associations (KAPA) represents over 1,400 paralegals through seven local associations, offering networking, CLE, and professional development opportunities
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Pennsylvania?
Explore ABA-approved programs, connect with professional associations, and take the first step toward joining Pennsylvania’s thriving paralegal community.
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.
