Utah doesn’t require paralegal certification, but employers prefer formal education and credentials. You can become a paralegal through certificate programs (6-12 months), associate degrees (2 years), or bachelor’s degrees (4 years). The Utah State Bar encourages national CLA/CP certification through NALA. Median salary is $60,240 annually, with top earners making $87,900 or more.
Utah has long ranked among the best states for economic opportunity, which has encouraged the growth of the legal services industry and, as a result, the paralegal profession. Whether you’re interested in corporate law or litigation in Salt Lake City or Provo, you’ll find ample opportunities to get your paralegal career up and running in Utah.
A long-time top spot on Forbes’ Best States for Business annual list has made Utah the place to be for business and professional opportunities. A pro-business climate and low energy costs have translated into a growing legal services industry. According to the American Bar Association, the number of active lawyers in Utah increased by 31% from 2011 to 2021, reaching 7,708 by 2021, one of the highest increases in the country during this time. As more lawyers begin or grow their practices in Utah, they increasingly depend on the services of competent, trusted paralegals to deliver cost-effective, efficient legal services.
A career in this field begins with earning the proper education and credentials, so before you hit the ground running, you’ll need to learn how to become a paralegal in Utah.
Education Requirements for Utah Paralegals
State law in Utah does not mandate training or educational requirements for paralegals. Thus, people interested in becoming paralegals can begin their careers through on-the-job training or education. While not legally required, the Utah State Bar encourages paralegals to pursue national certification as a Certified Legal Assistant/Certified Paralegal (CLA/CP) through the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). To qualify to take the CLA/CP exam, applicants must possess a combination of education and work experience.
As in other states, Utah’s Rules of Professional Conduct for Lawyers describe lawyers’ obligations to directly supervise their nonlawyer assistants, including providing them with sufficient professional and ethical instruction. Lawyers must also accept professional responsibility for the work generated by their nonlawyer assistants.
The body of knowledge required to perform legal support services effectively can only be gained through 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 take on has also increased. Law offices and other employers in Utah have come to rely on paralegals with the kind of expertise that can only come from earning a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
Paralegal Certification in Utah
A combination of factors, including the increased professionalism of the paralegal profession, a competitive job market, and the possibility of obtaining national certification, has motivated increasing numbers of aspiring paralegals to choose education over on-the-job training in recent years. Paralegal studies programs are growing, offering interested students the opportunity to enhance their skills, become more competitive in the job market, and begin their careers with confidence.
Potential paralegal students should research program choices carefully. Not all programs offer the depth and rigor that the American Bar Association (ABA) and the professional paralegal programs require for approval, and not all are provided by accredited schools. These factors can affect a paralegal’s qualifications for employment, membership in a professional organization, or eligibility for national certification.
Associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs are available in paralegal studies. Degree programs combine specialized coursework in paralegal studies with general education courses that broaden students’ knowledge base. Depending on the degree type and coursework, a degree can usually be completed in 2 to 5 years.
Another educational option for aspiring paralegals is a certificate program. These programs usually have few general education requirements and instead focus primarily on paralegal studies. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs are available to those who have earned a bachelor’s degree in any subject and wish to specialize in paralegal studies. Other certificate programs require a high school degree and help students enter the paralegal field. Directly Graduates from a certificate program are considered certificated paralegals.
National Certification Options
National certification, such as the NALA CLA/CP certification supported by the Utah Bar Association, is available to paralegals who meet educational, training, or work experience requirements. National certification aims to set a standard for proficiency. A certified paralegal, one who has passed the national certification exam, should demonstrate competence in the field and a strong skill set.
Currently, three professional organizations offer four national exams from which to select:
- The CLA/provided by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- The PACE and PCCE certifications provided by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The PP supplied by the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS)
Paralegal Salaries in Utah
As of May 2024, the average paralegal salary in Utah was $60,240, or $28.96 per hour, which is lower than the national average of $66,510. For those who work their way up through the ranks and take on specialized paralegal jobs and leadership positions, opportunities for higher salaries increase exponentially. In fact, the top 10% of paralegals in Utah earned a salary starting at $87,900, or $42.26 per hour, during this time.
Sectors that offer the highest salaries for paralegals nationwide, such as pharmaceuticals, computer software, and aerospace, also have a strong presence in Utah. Pharmaceutical companies like Navingen, Actavis, and Recursion operate in Salt Lake City, along with companies like ACT Aerospace in Gunnison and Barnes Aerospace in Ogden. Computer software companies like Micro Focus, Start Studio, and Imagine Learning thrive in Provo.
Utah Paralegal Employment Statistics
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024 (accessed USmber 2025)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of Paralegals Employed | 2,890 |
| Median Annual Salary | $60,240 |
| Average Annual Salary | $60,240 |
| Top 10% Annual Salary | $87,900 |
| Annual Job Openings (2022-2032) | 500 |
Average Paralegal Salary in Utah by City
Utah’s metro areas offer varying salary levels for paralegals, with rural regions often offering competitive compensation. Just some of the largest employers in the Salt Lake City area include Zions Bancorporation, Intermountain Healthcare, BioFire Diagnostics, and Myriad Genetics.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024 (accessed USmber 2025)
| Metropolitan Area | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Wage | Top 10% Annual Salary | Top 10% Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rural Wasatch Front Fringe | $70,580 | $33.93 | $106,230 | $51.07 |
| Rural High Desert | $61,750 | $29.69 | $109,080 | $52.44 |
| Salt Lake City | $61,630 | $29.63 | $88,940 | $42.76 |
| Provo-Orem | $57,230 | $27.51 | $78,660 | $37.82 |
| Ogden | $55,380 | $26.62 | $78,560 | $37.77 |
| Logan | $54,210 | $26.06 | $77,640 | $37.33 |
Utah Paralegal Programs and Schools
You may be interested in beginning or advancing your career as a paralegal, completing an online or campus-based program, or pursuing part-time or full-time study. Thanks to the meteoric growth of the paralegal field in the US, everything from pre-degree undergraduate certificate programs to post-baccalaureate certificates to bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies and beyond is readily available.
Whether you’re an Orem legal secretary looking to make the transition to a paralegal position, a career changer with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in another field, or a recent high school graduate with aspirations of working in one of Salt Lake City’s massive law firms, there is a host of paralegal programs that are sure to meet your needs.
We’ve assembled a list of the best programs available in Utah, both on-campus and online. We included only programs that have earned regional or national accreditation, so you can be sure that whichever one you choose will be comprehensive and relevant.
Ensign College
AAS/AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
Salt Lake Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Southern Utah University
AAS Paralegal Studies – Online
Legal Studies Minor – Online
Utah Valley University
Associate of Science (AS) in Legal Studies – Campus
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Legal Studies – Campus
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Proficiency in Legal Studies (post-associate) – Campus
Professional Associations
Utah Paralegal Association (UPA)
As a NALA affiliate, the Utah Paralegal Association (UPA) supports its members’ educational and professional goals, including earning CLA/CP certification. The UPA works across the state to increase the professionalism and utilization of paralegals, to collaborate with other legal associations, and to provide networking and support to its members. The UPA has five levels of membership:
- Active: Open to those who meet one of the following:
- Passed NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP)/Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) exam
- Graduate of an ABA-approved paralegal program
- Graduate of an institutionally-accredited paralegal program that includes 30 semester credits of law-related courses
- Graduate of a paralegal program plus one year of in-house paralegal training
- Bachelor’s or associate’s degree in any field plus one year of in-house paralegal training
- Three years of law-related experience under the supervision of an attorney, plus one year of in-house paralegal training
- Two years of in-house paralegal training
- Associate: Open to those who are working towards becoming Active members or those working in the legal field who promote the paralegal profession
- Student: Open to any student in good standing who is enrolled in a paralegal program
- Sustaining: Open to any person, law firm, association, or legal assistant program that promotes the paralegal profession
- Honorary: Open to anyone approved by UPA who endorses the paralegal profession
Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA)
Paralegals in Utah may also choose to join the Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA), which has a Utah division and members in South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado. The RMPA promotes continuing legal education, networking, education, and collaborative relationships with other legal organizations. RMPA is a National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) affiliate with four membership levels:
- Voting Member: Must be an employed paralegal
- Associate Member: Open to individuals who support the RMPA
- Sustaining Member: Open to firms, organizations, and businesses that support the RMPA
- Student Member: Open to students enrolled in a paralegal program
Utah State Bar Paralegal Division
The Utah State Bar also has an active Paralegal Division, which often addresses larger questions surrounding the paralegal profession, including certification, specialization, and internal discipline. The Paralegal Division works to keep paralegals apprised of current issues and provides many continuing legal education opportunities. Networking and pro bono work are also offered by the Paralegal Division.
The Bar offers the optional credential Licensed Paralegal Practitioner. Licensed Paralegal Practitioners will be able to work with a certain degree of independence in the following areas:
- Family law, such as temporary separation, divorce, paternity, cohabitant abuse, civil stalking, custody, support, and name changes
- Residential eviction
- Debt collection
Law Firms and Employers
Many paralegals begin their careers in large law firms, which are the top employers of paralegals. Large law firms in Utah include:
- Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll LLP
- Bendinger, Crockett, Peterson, Greenwood, & Casey
- Berman Tomsic & Savage
- Burbidge & Mitchell
- Dorsey & Whitney LLP
- Durham Jones & Pinegar, A Professional Corporation
- Fabian & Clendenin
- Holland & Hart LLP
- Holme Roberts & Owen LLP
- Janove Baar Associates
- Jones Waldo Holbrook & McDonough PC
- Kirton & McConkie
- Mannin, G. Curtis, Bradshaw, & Bednar
- Parr Waddoups Brown Gee & Loveless
- Parsons Behle & Latimer PC
- Ray Quinney & Nebeker PC
- Snell & Wilmer LLP
- Stoel Rives LLP
- Van Cott, Bagley, Cornwall & McCarthy
- Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
Important Resources and Contacts
- Utah Paralegal Association (UPA), formerly the Legal Assistants Association of Utah (LAAU), is affiliated with NALA.
- Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association (RMPA), affiliated with NFPA
- Utah State Bar – Paralegal Division
- Utah State Bar
- Utah Secretary of State
- Utah State Courts
- NALA CLA/CP Certification Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Utah require paralegal certification?
No, Utah doesn’t require paralegal certification. State law doesn’t mandate training or educational requirements for paralegals. You can begin your career through on-the-job training or education. The Utah State Bar encourages paralegals to pursue national certification as Certified Legal Assistants/Certified Paralegals (CLA/CP) through NALA, but it’s voluntary. Most employers prefer candidates with formal education and credentials.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Utah?
The timeline depends on your educational path. Certificate programs take 6-12 months, associate degree programs take about 2 years, and bachelor’s degree programs take 4 years. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs for those who already have a bachelor’s degree can be completed in 6 to 18 months. Some employers hire candidates with on-the-job training, which can vary in length.
What’s the average paralegal salary in Utah?
As of May 2024, the average paralegal salary in Utah was $60,240 per year, or $28.96 per hour. Entry-level paralegals typically earn less, while experienced paralegals in specialized fields earn significantly more. The top 10% of paralegals in Utah earned $87,900 or more annually. Salaries vary by location, with Rural Wasatch Front Fringe and Rural High Desert areas offering the highest average salaries.
Are there ABA-approved paralegal programs in Utah?
While not all paralegal programs in Utah are ABA-approved, several schools offer quality paralegal education programs with regional accreditation. ABA approval isn’t required in Utah since the state doesn’t mandate certification, but it can enhance your credentials for national certification and employment. Research program accreditation carefully, as it affects your qualifications for employment, professional organization membership, and eligibility for national certification.
Can I become a paralegal in Utah without a degree?
Yes, you can technically become a paralegal in Utah without a degree since the state doesn’t have mandatory education requirements. Some employers hire candidates for paralegal positions and provide on-the-job training. But most employers prefer candidates with formal education, and obtaining a certificate or degree significantly improves your job prospects and earning potential. The competitive legal market in Utah makes credentials increasingly valuable.
What national certifications are available for Utah paralegals?
Utah paralegals can pursue several national certifications. The Utah State Bar specifically encourages the CLA/CP certification from NALA. Other options include the PACE and PCCE exams from the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) and the PP certification from the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS). Each certification has specific educational and experience requirements. National certification demonstrates competence and can enhance your career prospects.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in Utah?
The job outlook for paralegals in Utah is promising. According to BLS projections, there are approximately 500 annual job openings for paralegals in Utah from 2022 to 2032. The state’s strong business climate, growing legal services industry, and 31% increase in active lawyers between 2011 and 2021 create favorable conditions for paralegal employment. The state’s pro-business environment and diverse economy continue to support legal industry growth.
Key Takeaways
- Utah doesn’t require paralegal certification, but formal education and national credentials improve job prospects and earning potential.
- Median paralegal salary in Utah is $60,240 annually, with top earners making $87,900 or more.
- Multiple educational paths available: certificates (6-12 months), associate degrees (2 years), and bachelor’s degrees (4 years)
- The Utah State Bar encourages national CLA/CP certification through NALA for professional development.t
- Strong job outlook with approximately 500 annual openings projected from 2022 to 2032
- Utah’s growing legal services industry and 31% increase in active lawyers create favorable conditions for paralegals.
- Professional associations like UPA and RMPA provide networking, education, and career development opportunities.
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Utah?
Explore accredited programs and take the first step toward a rewarding legal career in one of the nation’s fastest-growing states.
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.
