South Carolina doesn’t require formal education or certification to become a paralegal, but completing an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies makes you more competitive. Paralegals must work under attorney supervision per Supreme Court Rule 5.3. The state’s median paralegal salary is $48,640, with strong job growth projected through 2032.
South Carolina’s paralegals aren’t just legal support pros. Their refined skill set and legal knowledge make them valuable players who ensure law offices run smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively. From law firms like Andrews Mediation & Law, P.A., and Bannister, Wyatt & Stalvey, LLC to major corporations like Michelin, Sunoco, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, paralegal jobs are found throughout the private, public, and nonprofit sectors.
The paralegal profession in the Palmetto State is growing. Between 2011 and 2021, the number of active lawyers increased 15.7%, bringing the total to 11,090 attorneys. This growth, combined with law firms realizing paralegals offer similar skills at lower costs, creates strong demand for qualified paralegals.
How to Become a Paralegal in South Carolina
South Carolina takes a flexible approach to paralegal entry requirements. The state doesn’t mandate specific education or certification before you can work as a paralegal. You can enter the profession through on-the-job training or by earning a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
What South Carolina does require is that paralegals work under direct attorney supervision. This is established in Supreme Court Rule 5.3, which outlines the Professional Responsibilities of Lawyers to Nonlawyer Assistants. Under this rule, attorneys must instruct paralegals in ethics and confidentiality and remain ultimately responsible for their employees’ professional conduct.
Steps to Start Your Paralegal Career
The typical path includes:
- Complete your education (associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or certificate program)
- Consider pursuing national certification to stand out in the job market
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions
- Join professional associations for networking and continuing education
- Maintain your skills through ongoing professional development
Education and Certification Options
While South Carolina doesn’t require formal education, completing a degree or certificate program gives you a competitive edge. As the paralegal profession becomes more visible and widely used in the legal field, employers increasingly prefer candidates with formal training.
Degree Programs
You can earn three types of degrees in paralegal studies:
Associate Degrees blend focused coursework in legal and paralegal studies with general education requirements like writing and history. These programs typically take two years to complete and provide a solid foundation for entry-level positions.
Bachelor’s Degrees offer more comprehensive legal training combined with broader liberal arts education. These four-year programs prepare you for advanced paralegal roles and potential specializations.
Master’s Degrees cater to experienced paralegals seeking advanced expertise, as well as to those with bachelor’s degrees in other fields who want to transition into paralegal work.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs work well if you’ve already earned a degree in any field or prefer focused coursework without general education requirements. Post-baccalaureate certificates help bachelor ‘s-degree holders supplement their education with specialized paralegal training. Upon completion, graduates become certificated paralegals.
Certificate programs vary widely in rigor and coursework requirements, so research programs carefully. Both degrees and national certification exams may require graduation from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved program or an accredited school.
National Certification
Earning national certification demonstrates proficiency and commitment to continued education. Certified paralegals stand out in the job market and may command higher salaries. Learn more about NALA certification and how to earn this credential. To sit for national certification exams, you must meet requirements for education, work experience, or a combination of the two.
Four national exams are available:
- The PACE and PCCE are offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The CLA/CP provided by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- Provided by the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS)
South Carolina Certified Paralegal
The South Carolina Bar sponsors a voluntary credential called South Carolina Certified Paralegal. To qualify, you must hold one of these national certifications:
- Certified Paralegal (CP) or Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) from the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- Registered Paralegal (RP) through the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
Salary and Job Market
South Carolina’s landscape is changing for paralegals. The major employers of paralegals – law firms, commercial legal teams, and government (including the court system) – are realizing that paralegals have a skill set similar to lawyers but cost less to employ. In short, paralegals are being maximized.
Statewide Salary Data
As of May 2024, the median salary for paralegals in South Carolina was $48,640. There’s plenty of room to grow, particularly for those with extensive experience in paralegal specializations like litigation, estate law, bankruptcy law, and family law. The top 10% of paralegals in South Carolina earned at least $67,950 during this period.
The state’s average paralegal salary is $51,550, indicating strong earning potential across experience levels.
Employment Outlook
South Carolina employed 7,260 paralegals as of May 2024. The state projects 750 annual job openings for paralegals from 2022 to 2032. This growth reflects corporate expansion in the Palmetto State, with major employers including Michelin in Greenville, Cryovac in Duncan, and Sonoco in Hartsville.
South Carolina has consistently ranked among the top 10 states for net migration, especially from 2020 to 2024. This population growth, driven by corporate expansion and economic opportunity, continues to fuel demand for qualified paralegals.
Salary by City
Columbia tops the state for paralegal pay at both the average and top 10% levels:
| City | Average Salary | Hourly Rate | Top 10% Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia | $55,180 | $26.53 | $74,960 |
| Greenville | $52,370 | $25.18 | $64,500 |
| Charleston | $51,790 | $24.90 | $71,950 |
| Spartanburg | $50,980 | $24.51 | $61,650 |
| Hilton Head Island | $50,540 | $24.30 | $61,710 |
| Myrtle Beach | $48,210 | $23.18 | $58,810 |
| Florence | $48,140 | $23.14 | $60,170 |
| Sumter | $47,020 | $22.61 | $60,890 |
Paralegal Programs and Schools
The body of knowledge required to perform legal support services effectively can only be gained through formal education in paralegal studies. As attorneys, corporations, and government agencies work within an increasingly complex legal framework, the level of responsibility paralegals are expected to handle has increased.
Law offices and other employers in South Carolina rely on paralegals with the kind of expertise that comes from earning a certificate or degree. Most employers view your educational history as a direct reflection of your professional prowess. The better educated you are, the further up the list of potential job candidates you’ll find yourself.
All schools listed below are accredited, though not all are ABA-approved. Programs with ABA approval include Greenville Technical College, Trident Technical College, and Midlands Technical College. Whether ABA-approved or regionally accredited, these schools offer the curriculum you need to be an asset to your future employer.
Bob Jones University
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Central Carolina Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Florence-Darlington Technical College
AAS-Paralegal – Campus
Greenville Technical College
AAS Paralegal – Campus
Paralegal Preparatory Certification Class – Campus
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
AAS- Paralegal – Campus
Certificate- Paralegal Specialist – Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
Midlands Technical College
Associate in Public Service-Paralegal Concentration – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus (post-baccalaureate)
South University-Columbia
AS-Paralegal Studies – Online
BS in Legal Studies – Online
Technical College of the Lowcountry
AAS-Paralegal – Campus
Certificate-Paralegal Specialist – Campus (post-associate)
Trident Technical College
AAS-Paralegal – Campus
Certificate in Applied Science-Paralegal – Campus
York Technical College
AS in Administrative Office Technology-Paralegal Studies – Campus
Professional Associations
South Carolina’s paralegal associations provide continuing education, networking opportunities, and professional development resources.
South Carolina Upstate Paralegal Association (SCUPA)
Based in Greenville, SCUPA promotes continuing education, high ethical and professional standards, and strong working relationships with others in the legal community. SCUPA offers monthly social and educational meetings, an annual seminar, and pro bono work opportunities.
An affiliate of the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), SCUPA offers four membership levels:
- Active Member – Open to anyone who meets one of the following: Certified Paralegal (CP)/Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) from NALA, graduate of an ABA-approved paralegal program, or graduate of an institutionally accredited paralegal program
- Associate Member – Open to those interested in the paralegal profession but not meeting the Active requirements
- Student Member – Open to students enrolled in approved programs
- Sustaining Member – Open to businesses and individuals who support the paralegal profession
Palmetto Paralegal Association (PPA)
In Colombia and the surrounding area, PPA works to increase the visibility of paralegals within the legal community and to the general public. PPA members network with other individuals and organizations in the legal community, speak at educational institutions to attract qualified students, and volunteer for pro bono work.
PPA offers continuing education, scholarships, and a job bank to its members. Membership options include:
- Voting – Open to employed paralegals who have graduated from a PPA-approved education program
- Associate – Open to those who meet the criteria for Voting membership but aren’t currently employed as paralegals
- Student – Open to those enrolled in a paralegal program approved by the ABA or PPA
- Sustaining – Open to businesses and individuals who support or interact with the legal profession
Charleston Association of Legal Assistants (CALA)
Based in Charleston, CALA supports its members’ educational and professional development by offering continuing education opportunities and assisting them in preparing for NALA’s CLA exam. CALA offers scholarships, a job bank, pro bono opportunities, and social events.
An affiliate of NALA, CALA offers four membership levels:
- Full Membership – Open to currently employed paralegals with at least one year of paralegal experience who completed a paralegal training program that is ABA or institutionally approved
- Associate Membership – Open to those who don’t meet the experience or educational requirements for Full membership
- Student Membership – Open to students enrolled in an ABA or institutionally approved paralegal program
- Corporate Membership – Open to entities that support the paralegal concept
Legal Staff Professionals of South Carolina (LSPSC)
This association is the state-level affiliate of NALS. It encourages NALS paralegal certifications and promotes 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
Local chapters that are part of LSPSC and NALS include:
- Legal Staff Professionals of Greenville (LSPG)
- Hilton Head Legal Staff Professionals (HHLSP)
- Legal Staff Professionals of Orangeburg
- Spartanburg County Legal Staff Professionals
- Legal Staff Professionals of the Midlands
- Legal Staff Professionals of the Lowcountry
Law Firms and Major Employers
South Carolina is home to many large law firms that often employ many paralegals. From big-name firms to major corporations, the Palmetto State offers diverse employment opportunities.
Large Law Firms in South Carolina
- Altman & Coker, LLC
- Buist Moore Smythe Mcgee Pa
- Clawson & Staubes
- Collins and Lacy, P.C.
- Ellis, Lawhorne & Sims
- Gallivan, White & Boyd
- Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd
- Ogletree Deakins
- Smith Moore Leatherwood LLP
- Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
- Nexsen Pruet
- McAngus Goudelock & Courie PLLC
- McNair Law Firm PA
- Moore & Van Allen PLLC
- Motley & Rice
- Pierce, Herns Sloan & McLeod
- Richardson Plowden Carpenter
- Richardson, Patrick Westbrook & Bri
- Rogers Townsend & Thomas
- Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte
- Turner, Padget, Graham & Laney
- Womble Carlyle Sandridge Rice
- Wyche, Burgess, Freeman & Parham, P.A.
- Young, Clement, Rivers & Tisdale LLP
Major Corporate Employers
Corporate powerhouses remain some of the largest employers of paralegals in South Carolina:
- Michelin (Greenville)
- Cryovac (Duncan)
- Sonoco (Hartsville)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina
- Sunoco
Important Contacts for Paralegals
- South Carolina Upstate Paralegal Association (SCUPA), affiliated with NALA
- Palmetto Paralegal Association (PPA), affiliated with NFPA
- Charleston Association of Legal Assistants (CALA), affiliated with NALA
- South Carolina Bar
- South Carolina Secretary of State
- South Carolina Judicial Department
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree to become a paralegal in South Carolina?
No, South Carolina doesn’t require a degree or certification to work as a paralegal. You can enter the profession through on-the-job training. That said, completing an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies makes you more competitive in the job market and may lead to higher starting salaries. Many employers prefer candidates with formal education, and you’ll need it if you want to pursue national certification.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in South Carolina?
The timeline depends on your education path. An associate degree typically takes two years, a bachelor’s degree takes four years, and certificate programs can range from several months to two years. If you pursue on-the-job training without formal education, you could start working immediately, though advancement opportunities may be limited.
What’s the difference between being certificated and certified?
A certificated paralegal has completed a certificate program and received a certificate of completion from an educational institution. A certified paralegal has passed a national certification exam from organizations like NALA, NFPA, or NALS. Certification demonstrates proficiency and commitment to the profession, while a certificate shows you’ve completed focused coursework.
Can I work as a paralegal in South Carolina without attorney supervision?
No, South Carolina Supreme Court Rule 5.3 requires paralegals to work under direct attorney supervision. Attorneys must instruct paralegals in ethics and confidentiality and are ultimately responsible for their employees’ professional conduct. This ensures paralegals don’t engage in the unauthorized practice of law.
Are online paralegal programs accepted in South Carolina?
Yes, online programs are accepted in South Carolina. South University-Columbia offers online paralegal programs. When choosing an online program, look for ABA approval or institutional accreditation, as these credentials may be required for employment with certain employers or for eligibility for national certification.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in South Carolina?
The job outlook is strong—South Carolina projects 750 annual job openings for paralegals from 2022 to 2032. The state’s growing economy, high migration rates, and expanding corporate presence create steady demand for qualified paralegals. Cities like Columbia, Greenville, and Charleston offer the most opportunities.
Is the South Carolina Certified Paralegal credential worth pursuing?
The South Carolina Certified Paralegal credential, sponsored by the South Carolina Bar, is voluntary but valuable. To qualify, you must first earn either the CP/CLA from NALA or the RP from NFPA. This state credential demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and may give you an edge in the local job market.
Key Takeaways
- South Carolina doesn’t require formal education or certification, but completing a degree gives you a competitive advantage
- Paralegals must work under attorney supervision per Supreme Court Rule 5.3
- The median paralegal salary is $48,640, with the top 10% earning $67,950 or more
- South Carolina projects 750 annual paralegal job openings from 2022 to 2032
- Columbia offers the highest salaries, with an average pay of $55,180
- Multiple paralegal associations provide networking, continuing education, and professional development
- Both campus and online programs are available, with several schools offering ABA-approved programs
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in South Carolina?
Explore accredited programs and take the first step toward joining South Carolina’s growing paralegal profession.
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.
