Tennessee doesn’t regulate the paralegal profession, so you can enter through formal education or on-the-job training. Most employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree from an accredited program. You can also pursue voluntary national certification through NALA, NFPA, or NALS to boost your credentials and earning potential.
Tennessee’s business-friendly environment has long encouraged corporate growth, 
and the state is home to 23 Fortune 500 companies, including FedEx, Dollar General, International Paper, Tractor Supply, and HCA. Named a Forbes Best State for Business due to its low cost of doing business and attractive regulatory climate, Tennessee’s economic outlook is bright. For paralegals working in the corporate environment, this makes Tennessee a great spot to rise through the ranks. Whether your interests lie in corporate law or in another area like litigation, bankruptcy, estate, or immigration law, Tennessee has what you’re looking for.
The state of Tennessee does not regulate the paralegal profession, setting no legal standards for education or training. However, Supreme Court Rule 5.3 does guide the professional conduct of lawyers with regard to nonlawyer assistants. Lawyers are required to directly supervise and instruct their paraprofessional employees, especially in matters of ethics and confidentiality. They also must accept professional responsibility for the work produced by their employees.
Tennessee Paralegal Requirements
Tennessee takes a flexible approach to paralegal qualifications, with no state-mandated licensing or certification requirements. This means you can enter the profession through various pathways, whether that’s formal education, on-the-job training, or a combination of both.
While the state doesn’t regulate paralegals directly, Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 5.3 establishes important guidelines for attorneys who employ paralegal staff. Under this rule, lawyers must directly supervise and instruct their nonlawyer assistants, particularly in matters of professional ethics and client confidentiality. Attorneys also bear professional responsibility for all work produced by their paralegal employees.
This regulatory framework means that while Tennessee doesn’t require specific credentials, employers typically set their own standards for education and training. Most law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies prefer candidates who have completed formal paralegal education programs.
Education Pathways
Although paralegals in Tennessee may enter the profession through on-the-job training, increasing numbers are pursuing educational coursework in paralegal studies. Entry-level job candidates may benefit from a certificate or degree, which demonstrates their commitment to the field and distinguishes them from other job candidates. The American Bar Association (ABA) approves some programs that meet criteria for coursework and rigor. Certificates or degrees conferred by state board of education-accredited institutions are often preferred by employers and professional organizations.
Understanding Certificated vs. Certified Paralegals
Tennessee uses specific terminology that’s important to understand when researching your education options:
A certificated paralegal has completed an educational certificate program from a school or college and received a certificate of completion. This term refers to educational credentials earned through coursework.
A certified paralegal has passed a national professional certification exam administered by organizations like NALA, NFPA, or NALS. This term refers to professional credentials earned through examination and meeting specific experience requirements.
Both paths are recognized in Tennessee, and many paralegals pursue both educational certificates and professional certification to maximize their career opportunities.
Degree Programs
Degree programs combine general education coursework with a focus in paralegal studies. Currently, students may choose to earn an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in paralegal studies. These programs may take from two to five years to complete.
- Associate Degree – Two-year programs that combine general education with paralegal-specific coursework
- Bachelor’s Degree – Four-year comprehensive programs offering deeper legal knowledge and broader career opportunities
- Master’s Degree – Advanced programs for those seeking specialized expertise or leadership roles
Certificate Programs
Another option for aspiring paralegals is a certificate program. These educational programs offer specialized instruction in paralegal studies without many general education requirements. Those who complete such a program earn certificates of completion and become certificated paralegals. Certificate programs may be open to those with a high school degree or equivalent or may require that applicants already hold a bachelor’s degree in any field. Career changers with existing degrees often benefit from post-bachelor’s certificate programs designed specifically for their needs.
Paralegal Programs in Tennessee
The body of knowledge required to effectively perform legal support services can only come from a formal education in paralegal studies. As attorneys, corporations, and government agencies work within an increasingly complex legal framework, the level of responsibility they expect paralegals to be able to take on has also increased. Law offices and other employers in Tennessee have come to rely on paralegals with the kind of expertise that can only come from earning a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
Beginning a paralegal education program is an important step toward establishing a rewarding legal career. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate planning your educational path or a professional seeking a career change, formal paralegal training provides the knowledge and credentials needed to succeed in today’s legal environment.
Tennessee offers diverse paralegal education options to accommodate different educational backgrounds and career goals. The programs listed below include certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees, with many offering flexible formats including campus-based, online, and hybrid instruction. Career changers with existing bachelor’s degrees can pursue post-degree certificates designed specifically for their needs.
Tennessee Paralegal Schools
When evaluating programs, consider whether ABA approval is important for your career goals. While not required in Tennessee, ABA-approved programs meet strict standards set by the American Bar Association. Prospective students should verify the accreditation and approval status of programs directly with each institution before enrolling.
Chattanooga State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Technical Certificate (post-baccalaureate) – Campus
Hussian College-Daymar College Clarksville
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, Online
Nashville State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, Hybrid
Paralegal Studies Technical Certificate – Campus, Hybrid
Pellissippi State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Roane State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
South College
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-associate) – Campus
Southwest Tennessee Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Legal Secretary Certificate – Online
National Certification
Paralegals with education, training, or work experience can choose to become certified paralegals by successfully completing a national certification exam. These exams are offered by the three national professional paralegal associations as a way for paralegals to demonstrate their competence within the field and for employers to recognize their skill level. This is distinct from being a certificated paralegal, which refers to educational credentials rather than professional certification.
Requirements for the national exams differ between the three national paralegal organizations. Currently, there are four exams from which to choose:
- The PACE offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The PCCE is also offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The CLA/CP offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- The PP offered by the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS)
Tennessee has a strong affiliation with NALA, with four of the six state professional associations being NALA-affiliated organizations. Prospective paralegals should explore NALA’s Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)/Certified Paralegal (CP) exam as a particularly relevant certification option in Tennessee.
Salary and Job Outlook
Tennessee’s economic climate is bright for paralegal professionals. Named a Forbes Best State for Business, the state’s low cost of doing business and attractive regulatory environment have made it home to major corporate headquarters, including FedEx, AutoZone, and International Paper in Memphis. The tourism industry remains robust, thanks to attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the nation’s most visited. Whether you’re new to the profession or an established professional rising through the ranks, you’ll find plenty of exciting opportunities in Tennessee as a paralegal.
Statewide Salary Overview
As of 2024, Tennessee employed 5,890 paralegals across the state. Here’s a complete breakdown of paralegal compensation in Tennessee:
| Salary Metric | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Mean (Average) | $27.58 | $57,360 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $26.57 | $55,270 |
| 10th Percentile | $18.18 | $37,810 |
| 25th Percentile | $22.28 | $46,350 |
| 75th Percentile | $30.70 | $63,860 |
| 90th Percentile | $36.79 | $76,510 |
Salary by Metropolitan Area
Paralegal salaries vary across Tennessee’s metropolitan areas, with the largest legal markets generally offering higher compensation. Here’s how the major cities compare based on 2024 data:
Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin
- Total Employed: 2,720 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $60,690 ($29.18 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $39,890
- 90th Percentile: $77,640
Memphis, TN-MS-AR
- Total Employed: 1,170 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $56,510 ($27.17 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $38,340
- 90th Percentile: $78,170
Kingsport-Bristol, TN-VA
- Total Employed: 180 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $56,020 ($26.93 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $37,640
- 90th Percentile: $86,480
Jackson
- Total Employed: 110 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $54,020 ($25.97 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $35,970
- 90th Percentile: $81,110
Clarksville, TN-KY
- Total Employed: 140 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $53,930 ($25.93 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $36,810
- 90th Percentile: $72,550
Chattanooga, TN-GA
- Total Employed: 480 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $53,250 ($25.60 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $35,320
- 90th Percentile: $71,950
Knoxville
- Total Employed: 680 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $53,200 ($25.58 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $36,850
- 90th Percentile: $72,730
Johnson City
- Total Employed: 120 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $50,190 ($24.13 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $35,560
- 90th Percentile: $59,040
Cleveland
- Total Employed: 40 paralegals
- Mean Annual Salary: $48,670 ($23.40 per hour)
- 10th Percentile: $35,890
- 90th Percentile: $60,310
Job Growth and Outlook
The paralegal profession in Tennessee shows strong growth projections through 2032. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment projections:
- Current Employment (2022): 5,300 paralegals
- Projected Employment (2032): 6,070 paralegals
- Total Job Growth: 770 new positions
- Percent Growth: 14.5% (much faster than average)
- Average Annual Openings: 650 positions per year
This 14.5% growth rate significantly exceeds the national average for all occupations, reflecting Tennessee’s robust legal services sector and expanding corporate presence. With 650 annual openings, job seekers will find consistent opportunities throughout the decade.
Professional Associations
Tennessee offers paralegals numerous opportunities for professional development and networking through six active paralegal associations. These organizations provide continuing legal education, job resources, pro bono opportunities, and valuable connections within the legal community.
Tennessee Paralegal Association (TPA)
The Tennessee Paralegal Association has chapters throughout the state, including central, southeast, east, and west Tennessee. In addition to working towards increased utilization of paralegals in the legal community, the TPA provides support for its members through networking events, continuing legal education (CLE), pro bono opportunities, scholarships, and a job bank.
The TPA and its local chapter affiliates have three levels of membership:
Active Membership – Open to anyone who meets one of the following:
- Passed NALA’s Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)/Certified Paralegal (CP) exam
- Graduate of an ABA-approved paralegal program
- Graduate of an institutionally-accredited paralegal school with 60 semester credits of classroom study
- Graduate of paralegal program, plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Bachelor’s degree in any field plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Three years of law-related experience under an attorney’s supervision, including at least six months of in-house paralegal training
- Two years of in-house paralegal training
Student Membership – Open to full-time students enrolled in a paralegal program
Sustaining/Associate Membership – Open to individuals, law firms, corporations, and paralegal program representatives who endorse the paralegal concept
The local chapters of the TPA include:
- Central Tennessee Chapter
- East Tennessee Chapter
- Southeast Tennessee Chapter
Smoky Mountain Paralegal Association (SMPA)
Paralegals from any state may join the SMPA, which also welcomes students, attorneys, law firms, businesses, and others interested in supporting and promoting the paralegal profession. The SMPA organizes an annual seminar which includes ten hours of CLE, maintains an online discussion forum, and offers networking opportunities, a job bank, and many other benefits to its members.
The SMPA has four levels of membership:
Active Membership – Open to individuals who meet one of the following:
- Passed NALA’s Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)/Certified Paralegal (CP) exam
- Graduate of an ABA-approved paralegal program
- Graduate of an institutionally-accredited paralegal school with 60 semester credits of classroom study
- Graduate of paralegal program, plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Bachelor’s degree in any field plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Three years of law-related experience under an attorney’s supervision, including at least six months of in-house paralegal training
- Five years of law-related experience that includes two years of in-house paralegal training
Associate Membership – Open to those who would qualify for Active membership, except for meeting the in-house training component
Student Membership – Open to any individual who is enrolled full-time in a paralegal studies program
Sustaining Membership – Open to law firms, schools, corporations, and individuals who support the paralegal concept
Greater Memphis Paralegal Association
The Greater Memphis Paralegal Association offers monthly educational meetings to its members as part of its mission to help paralegals increase their skills and grow professionally. It also offers community service opportunities, a job bank, and support for those working towards national certification through NALA’s CLA/CP exam.
The GMPA has three levels of membership:
Active Membership – Open to anyone who meets one of the following:
- Passed NALA’s Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)/Certified Paralegal (CP) exam
- Graduate of an ABA-approved paralegal program
- Graduate of an institutionally-accredited paralegal school with 60 semester credits of classroom study
- Graduate of a paralegal program, plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Bachelor’s degree in any field plus six months of in-house paralegal training
- Three years of law-related experience under an attorney’s supervision, including at least six months of in-house paralegal training
- Two years of in-house paralegal training
- LPN, RN, SN, or currently employed as a Legal Nurse Consultant (LNC)
Student Membership – Open to anyone enrolled in a paralegal studies program who is not currently employed as a paralegal
Sustaining Membership – Open to individuals, law firms, corporations, paralegal program representatives, bar association members, members of the paralegal education field, and those directly involved in the supervision of paralegals, who support the paralegal concept
MLSA Legal Professionals of Memphis
An affiliate of NALS, this association encourages NALS paralegal certifications and promotes these levels of NALS membership:
- 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
- Student – 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 prior to retirement
- Life – Open to qualified individual members
- International – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature who reside outside the US
NALS Nashville
An affiliate of NALS, this organization encourages NALS paralegal certifications and promotes these levels of NALS membership:
- 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
- Student – 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 prior to retirement
- Life – Open to qualified individual members
- International – Open to those engaged in work of a legal nature who reside outside the US
Middle Tennessee Paralegal Association
Paralegals living or working near Nashville can also join the Middle Tennessee Paralegal Association. Community service has a prominent role in the MTPA, which encourages its members to volunteer at legal clinics and other events that bring affordable legal services to the public. These events are part of the MTPA’s work to increase the visibility of paralegals in the legal community and also to provide social opportunities for its members. Other goals of the MTPA include assisting members in furthering their education, earning national certification, and helping members stay informed of issues affecting the paralegal profession.
Career Opportunities
Law Firms
Metropolitan areas like Nashville and Memphis are often home to the large law firms that employ many paralegals. These can be good entry points for beginning paralegals. Large law firms in Tennessee include:
- Bass, Berry & Sims PLC
- Waller Lansden Dortch and Davis
- Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
- Stites & Harbison, PLLC
- Adams and Reese LLP
- Husch Blackwell LLP
- Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C.
- Fisher & Phillips LLP
- Jackson Lewis LLP
- Ford & Harrison LLP
- Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs, LLP
Important Contacts for Paralegals
- Tennessee Paralegal Association (TPA), affiliated with NALA
- Smoky Mountain Paralegal Association (SMPA), affiliated with NALA
- Tennessee Bar Association
- Tennessee Secretary of State
- Tennessee State Courts
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tennessee require paralegal certification or licensing?
No, Tennessee does not require state-mandated certification or licensing for paralegals. You can work as a paralegal through formal education or on-the-job training. However, Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 5.3 requires attorneys to supervise paralegal staff and accept professional responsibility for their work. Most employers prefer candidates with formal education or voluntary national certification.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Tennessee?
The timeline varies based on your chosen path. Certificate programs can take 6-12 months to complete. An associate degree typically requires two years of full-time study. Bachelor’s degree programs take four years. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, post-bachelor’s certificate programs can be completed in 6-18 months. Part-time and online options may extend these timelines.
What’s the difference between certificated and certified paralegals?
A certificated paralegal has completed an educational certificate program from a school or college and received a certificate of completion. This refers to educational credentials earned through coursework. A certified paralegal has passed a national professional certification exam from NALA, NFPA, or NALS, demonstrating professional competence through examination. Certificated refers to educational credentials, while certified refers to professional credentials. Many paralegals in Tennessee pursue both to enhance their qualifications.
Can I work as a paralegal in Tennessee without a degree?
Yes, Tennessee allows paralegals to enter the profession through on-the-job training without formal education requirements. However, most employers prefer candidates with formal paralegal education. Professional associations like the Tennessee Paralegal Association require formal education, professional certification, or substantial supervised experience for active membership. Starting with formal education typically provides better job opportunities and career advancement.
Are online paralegal programs accepted in Tennessee?
Yes, online paralegal programs are accepted in Tennessee, provided they’re from accredited institutions. Several Tennessee schools offer hybrid or fully online options, including Hussian College-Daymar College, Clarksville, and Nashville State Community College. When choosing an online program, look for institutional accreditation and consider ABA-approved programs for the strongest credentials.
Why is ABA approval important for paralegal programs?
ABA approval indicates a paralegal program meets rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and educational resources set by the American Bar Association. While ABA approval is not required to work as a paralegal in Tennessee, it’s often preferred by employers and professional associations. Graduates of ABA-approved programs typically have an advantage in the job market and may find it easier to qualify for active membership in professional organizations like the Tennessee Paralegal Association. Tennessee offers several programs to choose from, and prospective students should verify each program’s accreditation status directly with the school.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in Tennessee?
The job outlook is excellent. Tennessee expects 14.5% growth in paralegal employment from 2022 to 2032, adding 770 new positions. The state averages 650 annual job openings due to growth and replacement needs. This growth rate is much faster than the average for all occupations, driven by Tennessee’s robust legal services sector and expanding corporate presence, including 23 Fortune 500 companies.
Key Takeaways
- Tennessee doesn’t require paralegal certification or licensing, allowing flexible entry through education or on-the-job training, though most employers prefer formal education
- The state projects 14.5% job growth through 2032, creating 770 new positions with 650 annual openings, significantly exceeding the national average for all occupations
- Tennessee paralegals earn a mean salary of $57,360 annually, with Nashville offering the highest compensation at $60,690, and top earners statewide making over $76,510
- Nine accredited schools offer paralegal programs ranging from certificates to bachelor’s degrees, including several with hybrid and online options for flexible learning
- Four national certification options are available through NALA, NFPA, and NALS, providing voluntary professional credentials that can enhance career opportunities
- Six professional associations serve Tennessee paralegals, offering continuing education, networking, job resources, and pro bono opportunities across the state
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Tennessee?
Explore accredited paralegal programs and take advantage of Tennessee’s strong job growth and competitive salaries.
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.
