Vermont has no mandatory certification or education requirements for paralegals. You can enter the profession through paralegal education programs or on-the-job training. Professional Conduct Rule 5.3 defines attorney responsibilities for supervising paralegals and prohibits unauthorized practice of law. Voluntary national certification is available through NALA, NFPA, and NALS.
Vermont’s paralegals play an essential support role in the legal services 
industry, providing critical assistance to lawyers across diverse settings, including private law firms, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and corporate legal departments. Whether you’re an aspiring paralegal or an established professional looking to advance in the field, Vermont offers steady career opportunities.
Before you can enter this profession and begin working your way up the career ladder, you’ll need to understand the education pathways, certification options, and job market in the Green Mountain State. This guide provides comprehensive information about becoming a paralegal in Vermont.
Education Requirements in Vermont
Vermont has no legal requirements regarding the training and education of paralegals. Those seeking to enter the profession may do so through education in paralegal studies or by acquiring on-the-job training.
Professional Conduct Rule 5.3 defines the lawyer-paralegal relationship in Vermont. This rule establishes attorney responsibilities for supervising paralegals. As in other states, paralegals must work under the direct supervision of a lawyer, and though they may perform substantive legal work, they may not practice law. Lawyers are required to provide instruction around professional matters, including ethics and confidentiality, and they must assume responsibility for the work produced by the paralegals in their employ.
Certificate vs. Degree Programs
Lawyers increasingly rely on paralegals to perform high-level legal tasks and often choose to hire job candidates who come into the position with knowledge and skills. While it’s possible to find positions that offer on-the-job training, increasing numbers of aspiring paralegals are finding that education makes them more competitive job candidates.
Education demonstrates a commitment to the profession and basic proficiency within the field, and has the added benefit of helping prepare paralegals for voluntary national certification.
Students can earn either certificates or degrees in paralegal studies. Certificate programs are typically quicker to complete than degrees, as they don’t require many general education classes. Some certificate programs are open to applicants with a high school diploma. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs require that applicants have a bachelor’s degree in any field. Certificate programs offer focused coursework in paralegal studies to prepare students to begin working as paralegals. Graduates of certificate programs are called certificated paralegals.
Another option for students is degree-conferring programs, which offer students both specialized courses in paralegal studies and general education courses to broaden students’ education backgrounds. An associate’s degree typically takes two years to complete, a bachelor’s degree takes four years, and a master’s degree requires one to two years of post-bachelor’s study. Currently, paralegal studies degrees are offered at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s levels.
ABA Approval and Accreditation
Employers, the professional paralegal organizations that offer national certification, and bar associations often prefer that paralegals complete educational programs that meet a standard level of depth and rigor. Prospective students should be aware that American Bar Association (ABA) approval of a program or institutional accreditation of the school may be preferred by employers, and they should investigate as needed.
Paralegal Certification in Vermont
Paralegals who wish to demonstrate their mastery within their field may choose to take a national certification exam. In order to sit for the exam, they must first meet the eligibility requirements of education or work experience. Those who pass the national certification exam become certified paralegals.
Currently, there are four national exams from which to select:
- 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)
Paralegal Salary in Vermont
Statewide Salary Overview
As of May 2024, Vermont employed 730 paralegals statewide. The average paralegal salary in Vermont was $62,360, or $29.98 per hour. The salary range varies significantly based on experience, specialization, and geographic location.
| Salary Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (10th Percentile) | $47,490 | $22.83 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,230 | $23.67 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $63,000 | $30.29 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,810 | $33.56 |
| Experienced (90th Percentile) | $79,440 | $38.19 |
| Average (Mean) | $62,360 | $29.98 |
Experienced paralegals in Vermont — particularly those with specialization in areas such as estate law, consumer law, immigration law, or corporate law — can earn wages starting at $79,440, or $38.19 per hour.
Burlington-South Burlington Metro Area
Vermont’s Burlington-South Burlington metro area employed 340 paralegals as of May 2024, making it the largest concentration of paralegal jobs in Vermont. The average salary in this metro area was $65,900, or $31.68 per hour — over $3,500 more than the state average.
The Greater Burlington region serves as the industrial, tourist, and financial center of Vermont, largely supported by strong manufacturing and electronics industries and a healthy tourism industry.
| Salary Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (10th Percentile) | $49,230 | $23.67 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $64,410 | $30.97 |
| Experienced (90th Percentile) | $80,730 | $38.81 |
| Average (Mean) | $65,900 | $31.68 |
Regional Salary Differences
Vermont’s paralegal salaries vary by region, with rural areas generally offering lower compensation than the Burlington metro area.
| Region | Employment | Average Salary | Top 10% Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington-South Burlington Metro | 340 | $65,900 ($31.68/hour) | $80,730 ($38.81/hour) |
| Northern Vermont (Nonmetropolitan) | 170 | $63,180 ($30.38/hour) | $80,330 ($38.62/hour) |
| Southern Vermont (Nonmetropolitan) | 220 | $56,180 ($27.01/hour) | $75,350 ($36.22/hour) |
Factors Affecting Paralegal Salaries
Several factors influence paralegal compensation in Vermont:
- Experience level: Entry-level paralegals typically start around $47,000, while experienced professionals can earn $79,000 or more
- Specialization: Paralegals specializing in corporate law, intellectual property, or healthcare law often command higher salaries
- Geographic location: Urban areas like Burlington generally offer higher salaries than rural regions
- Employer type: Large law firms and corporations typically pay more than small firms or nonprofit organizations
- Education and certification: Paralegals with degrees and national certification often earn higher salaries
Job Outlook and Growth
Vermont’s paralegal profession shows steady growth prospects over the next decade. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, Vermont paralegal employment is expected to grow from 670 positions in 2022 to 720 positions by 2032, representing a 7.5% increase.
This growth translates to approximately 80 annual job openings for paralegals in Vermont through 2032. These openings include both new positions created by growth and positions that need to be filled due to workers leaving the occupation or retiring.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Employment (2022) | 670 paralegals |
| Projected Employment (2032) | 720 paralegals |
| Total Growth | 50 new positions |
| Percent Growth | 7.5% |
| Average Annual Openings | 80 positions per year |
The steady demand for paralegals in Vermont reflects the ongoing need for cost-effective legal services. As attorneys work within an increasingly complex legal framework, they continue to rely on skilled paralegals to handle substantive legal work efficiently.
Paralegal Programs in Vermont
The body of knowledge required to effectively perform legal support services typically comes from 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 increased.
Whether you’re interested in studying pre-law, specializing in a particular area of law, or transitioning from another career, Vermont offers several educational pathways. Online and hybrid paralegal programs provide flexibility for working professionals who want to balance education with their current commitments.
Vermont Paralegal Programs
Champlain College (Burlington)
Champlain College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Law program that prepares students for careers in the legal field. The program combines legal theory with practical skills development and provides a foundation for paralegal work or law school preparation.
Community College of Vermont (Statewide)
CCV offers an online Associate of Science in Professional Studies with a focus on Legal Studies. This 60-credit program can be completed entirely online in part-time or full-time format, making it accessible for students throughout Vermont. The curriculum emphasizes skills in managing administrative processes and includes legal studies electives.
Vermont Technical College (Online)
Vermont Technical College provides an online paralegal program in partnership with the University of Vermont. The program teaches fundamental skills like legal research and analysis, legal interviewing, and other legal skills needed to pass national paralegal certification tests and to work as entry-level assistants in the field.
University of Vermont (Burlington)
UVM offers a 3+2 or 3+3 dual degree program through the University of Vermont-Vermont Law School. In five to six years, students can earn both their bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctor. UVM also offers an Individually Designed Major or Minor through the College of Arts and Sciences for students interested in creating a customized legal studies curriculum.
Vermont Paralegal Organization (VPO)
The Vermont Paralegal Organization (VPO) offers membership to students and practicing paralegals with the goals of promoting the paralegal profession, supporting paralegals in education and professional development, and providing opportunities for networking and community among legal professionals.
Benefits of VPO Membership
Benefits of joining the VPO include:
- Mentoring program connecting new paralegals with experienced professionals
- Job bank with paralegal opportunities throughout Vermont
- Support in earning national certification
- Access to continuing legal education (CLE) opportunities
- Pro bono service opportunities
- Updates on issues affecting the paralegal profession, including regulation
VPO Membership Levels
Affiliated with the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), the VPO offers four levels of membership:
Voting Membership
Open to employed Vermont paralegals who meet one of the following education and experience combinations:
- Bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies + six months of paralegal training
- Bachelor’s degree in any field + paralegal certificate + one year of paralegal training
- Bachelor’s degree in any field + two years of paralegal training
- Associate’s degree in paralegal studies + 18 months of paralegal training
- Associate’s degree in any field + paralegal certificate + two years of paralegal training
- Associate’s degree in any field + 2.5 years of paralegal training
- High school diploma + paralegal certificate + three years of paralegal training
- High school diploma + five years of paralegal training
Associate Membership
Open to any individual who meets one of the following:
- Qualifies for Active membership except for being currently employed as a paralegal
- A graduate of a paralegal program who doesn’t otherwise meet the requirements for Voting membership
- Employed as a paralegal and doesn’t meet the requirements for Voting membership
Student Membership
Open to anyone enrolled in a paralegal program that results in a degree or certificate, or an intern of such a program.
Sustaining Membership
Open to any person or entity that supports the VPO and the paralegal profession, and who doesn’t qualify for any other type of membership.
Major Employers and Law Firms
Vermont paralegals find employment opportunities across various sectors and employer types. Large law firms often hire entry-level paralegals, with most major firms having offices in Burlington, Montpelier, and other metropolitan areas.
Major Vermont Law Firms
These law firms are among Vermont’s largest employers of paralegals:
- Gravel & Shea
- Dinse, Knapp & McAndrew, P.C.
- Bauer, Gravel, Farnham, Nuovo & Parker
- Downs Rachlin Martin PLLC
- Langrock Sperry & Wool, LLP
- Paul Frank + Collins P.C.
Employment Sectors for Paralegals
Beyond traditional law firms, Vermont paralegals find opportunities in:
- Corporate legal departments: In-house positions with businesses and corporations
- Healthcare organizations: Medical centers, hospitals, and healthcare companies
- Insurance companies: Claims, underwriting, and legal departments
- Government agencies: State and local government legal offices
- Legal aid organizations: Nonprofit legal services and advocacy groups
- Tourism and hospitality: Resorts and large hospitality companies
- Financial institutions: Banks and financial services companies
Important Contacts for Paralegals
- Vermont Paralegal Organization (VPO), affiliated with the NFPA
- Vermont Bar Association
- Vermont Bar Association – Standards for Paralegal Membership
- Vermont Secretary of State
- Vermont Judiciary
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vermont require certification to work as a paralegal?
What’s the average paralegal salary in Vermont?
As of May 2024, the average paralegal salary in Vermont was $62,360 annually, or $29.98 per hour. Entry-level paralegals typically earn around $47,490, while experienced professionals in the top 10% can earn $79,440 or more. Salaries are generally higher in the Burlington-South Burlington metro area, where the average is $65,900 annually.
Do I need a degree to become a paralegal in Vermont?
No, Vermont doesn’t legally require a degree. However, many employers prefer or require candidates with formal paralegal education. You can pursue certificate programs (quicker completion, typically 1 year or less) or degree programs (associate’s takes 2 years, bachelor’s takes 4 years). Education demonstrates commitment to the profession and prepares you for optional national certification.
What’s the difference between a certificated paralegal and a certified paralegal?
A certificated paralegal has completed a certificate program in paralegal studies from an educational institution. A certified paralegal has passed a national certification exam (PACE, PCCE, CLA/CP, or PP) after meeting eligibility requirements. Certification demonstrates mastery of the field through standardized testing and is voluntary in Vermont.
How many paralegal jobs are available in Vermont?
Vermont currently employs about 730 paralegals statewide as of 2024. The profession is projected to grow 7.5% from 2022 to 2032, adding 50 new positions. This translates to approximately 80 annual job openings, including both positions created by growth and positions that need to be filled due to turnover and retirement.
Can I work as a paralegal in Vermont with just on-the-job training?
Yes, it’s legally possible to become a paralegal in Vermont through on-the-job training alone, as the state has no mandatory education requirements. However, many employers prefer or require candidates with formal paralegal education. Education makes you more competitive in the job market and provides a foundation for handling complex legal tasks efficiently.
What does the Vermont Paralegal Organization offer?
The Vermont Paralegal Organization (VPO) provides mentoring programs, a job bank, support for national certification, continuing legal education (CLE) opportunities, pro bono service opportunities, and networking events. The VPO is affiliated with the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) and offers four membership levels: voting, associate, student, and sustaining memberships.
Where do paralegals in Vermont typically work?
Vermont paralegals work in various settings, including law firms (especially in Burlington and Montpelier), corporate legal departments, healthcare organizations, insurance companies, government agencies, legal aid organizations, and nonprofit organizations. The Burlington-South Burlington metro area offers the highest concentration of paralegal positions, with 340 of the state’s 730 paralegal jobs.
Key Takeaways
- Vermont has no mandatory certification or education requirements for paralegals, though many employers prefer or require formal education
- The average paralegal salary in Vermont is $62,360 annually, with experienced professionals earning $79,440 or more, and the Burlington metro area offers higher wages at $65,900
- Vermont’s paralegal profession is projected to grow 7.5% through 2032, creating approximately 80 annual job openings (including both growth and replacement positions)
- Voluntary national certification through PACE, PCCE, CLA/CP, or PP demonstrates mastery and can enhance career prospects
- Multiple education pathways are available, including Champlain College’s BA in Law, Community College of Vermont’s online AS, and Vermont Technical College’s online paralegal program
- The Vermont Paralegal Organization (VPO) provides valuable networking, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for both students and practicing paralegals
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Vermont?
Explore paralegal programs that fit your schedule and career goals. Find the right path to enter Vermont’s growing legal 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.
