Washington doesn’t require paralegal certification, but completing an ABA-approved program and earning voluntary credentials enhances your career prospects. Washington paralegals earn a median salary of $74,890 annually, ranking among the highest in the nation, and enjoy unique practice privileges, including the ability to present ex parte court filings in four counties.
Consistently ranked among the top states in the nation for its powerhouse economy, growing GDP (about $565 billion as of 2021), and number of tech companies, Washington State offers exceptional professional opportunities for paralegals. Whether your career goals include landing a job with a tech giant like Microsoft, Amazon, or Blue Origin or with a major law firm like Perkins Coie LLP, Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, or K&L Gates LLP, understanding how to become a paralegal in Washington State is your first step.
What makes Washington particularly attractive for paralegals is not just the robust job market and top-tier salaries, but also the unique practice privileges available here. Paralegals in Washington enjoy a level of autonomy that’s rare in other states, thanks to forward-thinking initiatives that allow paralegals to present court filings for certain time-sensitive ex parte matters. The state also previously offered the Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) credential for family law practice and continues to provide the Limited Practice Officer (LPO) credential for real estate closings.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming a paralegal in Washington, including education requirements, certification options, unique practice privileges, salary expectations, top programs, and career outlook.
Education & Training Requirements
Like most states, Washington has no legal requirement to become registered, certified, or licensed as a paralegal. There’s no state regulatory body overseeing these legal paraprofessionals, so you can technically work as a paralegal without formal education.
However, that’s not the whole story. Today’s competitive legal market strongly favors paralegals who have completed formal educational programs. Employers, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies, increasingly expect candidates to have either an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree, or a certificate in paralegal studies from an accredited program.
Understanding “Certificated” vs. “Certified”
According to the Washington State Paralegal Association, there’s an essential distinction in terminology. Paralegals who complete formal coursework through ABA-approved or non-ABA-recognized programs are more accurately referred to as “certificated” rather than “certified.” This distinction matters because actual certification refers to national-level credentials earned through competency assessment exams offered by professional organizations like NALA, NFPA, or NALS.
Educational Pathways
Washington paralegals typically pursue one of three educational routes:
Certificate Programs offer accelerated training, typically completed in 6-12 months. These intensive programs focus exclusively on paralegal skills and are ideal for career changers or those looking to enter the field quickly. Most certificate programs require at least an associate’s degree or significant college credits as a prerequisite.
Associate’s Degrees in paralegal studies take about two years to complete and provide a comprehensive foundation in legal principles, research, writing, and specialized areas of law. These programs often include general education courses alongside paralegal-specific training.
Bachelor’s Degrees in paralegal studies or legal studies offer the most comprehensive education, taking four years to complete. These programs combine a broad liberal arts education with in-depth legal training and may open the door to supervisory or management positions more quickly.
Earning any of these degrees also fulfills the educational minimums required to pursue elective national certification, which we’ll discuss in the next section.
Professional Certification & Credentials
While Washington doesn’t require certification to work as a paralegal, earning professional credentials demonstrates your expertise and commitment to the profession. Several options exist, from national certifications to Washington-specific credentials that expand your practice authority.
National Paralegal Certifications
Three major organizations offer nationally recognized paralegal certifications, all requiring a combination of education and experience:
National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers the Certified Paralegal (CP) credential through its comprehensive exam. To qualify, you need an associate’s degree plus at least one year of experience, or a bachelor’s degree in any field with paralegal coursework, or seven years of experience with documented legal training.
National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) provides two credentials. The Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) results in the PACE Registered Paralegal (RP) designation for experienced paralegals with at least two years in the field. The newer Paralegal CORE Competency Exam (PCCE), launched in 2011, offers the CORE Registered Paralegal (CRP) credential for those earlier in their careers.
NALS (the Association for Legal Professionals) offers a tiered certification program including the ALS (Accredited Legal Secretary), PLS (Professional Legal Secretary), and PP (Professional Paralegal) credentials.
Each certification requires passing a rigorous exam and maintaining continuing education requirements. These credentials signal to employers that you’ve met national competency standards and stay current with developments in the field.
Washington-Specific Credentials
Washington stands out nationally by offering specialized credentials through the Washington State Bar Association that allow paralegals to practice with expanded independence in specific areas.
Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) was a groundbreaking credential designed for paralegals who wanted to work independently in family law matters. Important Note: The LLLT program was sunset in 2020 and is no longer accepting new applicants. However, existing LLLT licensees may continue practicing under their credentials. This program was one of the nation’s first attempts to expand access to legal services through credentialed non-lawyer practitioners.
A Limited Practice Officer (LPO) authorizes paralegals to select, prepare, and complete documents in pre-approved forms for real estate transactions, including loan closings, extensions of credit, sales, and other transfers of real or personal property. Qualifying requires passing a four-hour exam covering property and real estate law. This credential remains available and offers opportunities for paralegals interested in real estate practice.
Washington’s Unique Practice Privileges
One of Washington’s most distinctive features for paralegals is the authorization to present ex parte filings in specific county court systems. This expanded practice privilege, typically restricted to licensed attorneys in most states, came about through a petition organized by Washington paralegals and licensed attorneys.
What Are Ex Parte Filings?
Ex parte matters are handled by special court divisions responsible for hearing civil and family law cases, typically in emergencies where the court must intercede quickly to prevent personal injury or property damage. These time-sensitive emergency orders include:
- Evictions and unlawful detainer actions
- Guardianships and trusts
- Vulnerable adult protection orders
- Requests for emergency temporary domestic violence, anti-harassment, and sexual assault protection orders
- Requests for emergency temporary restraining orders
- Minor or incapacitated adult settlements
- Probate and trusts
- Orders setting hearings
- Adoptions
Participating Counties
Currently, paralegals can register for the ability to present ex parte filings in four Washington counties:
- King County
- Snohomish County
- Pierce County
- Spokane County
County Court Registration Process
Registration at the county level is an elective process, typically pursued at the request of your employing attorney or law firm. Each participating county has its own registration process and requirements. Let’s look at King County as an example.
King County Bar Association Legal Assistant Registration Program provides registered paralegals with valuable entitlements:
- Access to court files from the King County Clerk’s office
- Access to the King County Law Library (additional application and fees required)
- The ability to present ex parte orders to the court
Qualifications for King County Registration:
To qualify, you must have performed attorney-supervised work as an employee or contractor with a law firm, corporation, or administrative agency for at least six months. At least half of your work during this period must be non-clerical, including investigative work, information gathering, and tasks requiring independent judgment and client interaction.
You must also hold a degree or certificate from an ABA-accredited program, or have equivalent combined college education and legal fieldwork experience as determined by your supervising attorney. Finally, you need completion of at least two legal education courses: one in ethics and one in your area of specialty.
Registration Documents for Full-Time Employees:
- Initial Application Form
- Letter of recommendation from the Responsible Attorney
- Affidavit of the Responsible Attorney
- Affidavit of Applicant
- Proof of degree or certificate earned
- Verification of participation in ethics and specialty seminars
- $35 registration fee
Registration Documents for Contracted Paralegals:
- Initial Application Form
- Letter of recommendation from the Sponsoring Attorney
- Affidavit of Sponsoring Attorney
- Affidavit of Applicant
- Affidavit of the Responsible Attorney from each contracting law firm
- Proof of degree or certificate earned
- Verification of ethics and specialty education
- $60 registration fee
For registration information in other counties, contact the respective bar associations:
- King County Bar Association
- Snohomish County Bar Association
- Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association
- Spokane County Bar Association
Paralegal Schools & Training Programs
The 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 they expect paralegals to handle has also increased. Washington employers rely on paralegals with expertise earned through a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
Whether you see yourself working alongside attorneys in a downtown Seattle high-rise or supporting in-house counsel in the corporate legal department of a local tech giant, you’ll find no shortage of opportunities in Washington. The state is home to several well-respected paralegal programs offering pathways for high school graduates, career changers, and practicing paralegals seeking advancement or specialization.
All schools listed here have achieved regional or national accreditation, ensuring they meet the highest quality standards. To find the program that best fits your professional goals and personal needs, request information to learn about annual tuition rates and unique program features.
Washington Paralegal Programs
Edmonds Community College
- Paralegal Associate of Technical Arts Degree – Campus
- Advanced Paralegal Certificate (post-baccalaureate or concurrent with bachelor’s degree) – Campus
- Medical Paralegal Certificate (requires an associate’s degree plus a nursing degree or diploma) – Campus
Green River College
- Associate of Applied Arts in Legal Administrative Assisting – Campus
Highline College
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Paralegal Plus Certificate (post-baccalaureate or concurrent with bachelor’s degree) – Campus
Lower Columbia College
- AA in Pre-Law – Campus
Olympic College
- AA in Pre-Law – Campus
Peninsula College
- AAS in Administrative Office Systems-Legal Option – Online
- Legal Assistant I-Short Term Certificate – Online
- Legal Assistant II-Short Term Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Renton Technical College
- AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online/Hybrid
- Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Online/Hybrid
South Puget Sound Community College
- AAS in Paralegal – Campus
Spokane Community College
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Paralegal Certificate (requires BA/BS, Legal Secretary AA/AAS, or Legal Administration Assistant AAS) – Campus
Tacoma Community College
- Paralegal Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Campus, Hybrid
- Paralegal Pro-Certificate (post-associate) – Campus, Hybrid
University of Washington (Seattle, Tacoma campuses)
- Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-baccalaureate) – Campus
Whatcom Community College
- AS in Paralegal Studies – Hybrid
- Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Hybrid
Yakima Valley College
- AAS in Business Technology-Bilingual Legal Office Assistant – Campus, Hybrid
- AAS in Business Technology-Legal Office Assistant – Campus, Hybrid
- Certificate in Business Technology-Legal Receptionist – Campus, Hybrid
Choosing the Right Program
When evaluating paralegal programs, consider whether the program offers:
- ABA approval (particularly important if you plan to pursue national certification)
- Specialization options in your areas of interest
- Flexible scheduling (evening, weekend, online options)
- Internship or externship opportunities
- Job placement assistance
- Courses that meet LPO credential requirements, if you’re interested in real estate practice
Salary & Compensation
Washington’s robust economy and thriving legal services industry translate into exceptional compensation for paralegals. The state consistently ranks among the top nationally for paralegal salaries, making it one of the most financially rewarding places to build your paralegal career.
Statewide Salary Overview
According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Washington paralegals earned an average salary of $82,130, or $39.49 per hour, ranking second in the nation for paralegal compensation (after California). This represents significantly higher pay than the national average, reflecting the state’s strong economy and high demand for skilled legal professionals.
The state employs approximately 8,380 paralegals across law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. With major employers like Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and Starbucks headquartered here, along with growth in the legal services sector (the number of active lawyers increased 13.6% between 2011 and 2021 to 26,318 professionals), the outlook for paralegals remains strong.
Salary by Experience Level
Your earning potential grows significantly as you gain experience and develop specialized expertise in areas like litigation, corporate law, estate law, or immigration law. Here’s how Washington paralegal salaries break down by percentile:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (10th Percentile) | $52,240 | $25.12 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,340 | $31.41 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $74,890 | $36.00 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,770 | $47.00 |
| Experienced (90th Percentile) | $115,120 | $55.34 |
Once you’ve gained considerable experience and specialized knowledge, you’ll find yourself earning salaries that reflect the state’s top earners, which start at $115,120 annually or $55.34 per hour.
Salary by Major City
While prospects are excellent across Washington, you’ll encounter regional differences throughout the state. The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area naturally offers the highest average salaries, bolstered by companies such as Boeing, Amazon, and Microsoft, as well as national law firms such as Perkins Coie LLP and Davis Wright Tremaine LLP.
| Metropolitan Area | Average Salary | Hourly Wage | Top 10% Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $88,540 | $42.57 | $117,960 |
| Wenatchee | $71,490 | $34.37 | $101,430 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale | $69,020 | $33.18 | $95,890 |
| Olympia-Tumwater | $68,730 | $33.04 | $84,180 |
| Bellingham | $67,130 | $32.27 | $98,240 |
| Longview | $66,190 | $31.82 | $75,940 |
| Yakima | $66,080 | $31.77 | $89,270 |
| Walla Walla | $65,200 | $31.34 | $100,900 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $63,420 | $30.49 | $86,440 |
| Kennewick-Richland (Tri-Cities) | $63,300 | $30.44 | $82,800 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $62,230 | $29.92 | $99,180 |
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence your earning potential as a Washington paralegal:
Specialization plays a significant role in compensation. Paralegals specializing in complex areas like intellectual property, corporate law, securities regulation, or healthcare law typically earn more than those in general practice. Given Washington’s concentration of tech companies, paralegals with expertise in technology law, patents, and intellectual property are particularly well-compensated.
Employer type matters considerably. Large law firms and major corporations generally offer higher salaries than small firms or nonprofit organizations. However, smaller employers may offer better work-life balance, more varied responsibilities, or other benefits that compensate for lower base salaries.
Credentials and education impact your marketability and earning power. Holding national certifications like the CP, RP, or PCCE demonstrates expertise and commitment to the profession. The LPO designation can significantly expand your practice authority and income potential, particularly if you’re interested in real estate practice.
Years of experience naturally correlate with higher salaries. As you move from entry-level to mid-career and senior positions, you’ll take on more complex work, supervise junior staff, and develop specializations that command premium compensation.
Job Outlook & Career Growth
The paralegal profession in Washington enjoys a promising outlook, driven by the state’s economic growth, expanding legal services sector, and increasing complexity of legal regulations.
According to BLS employment projections, Washington expects steady growth in paralegal positions from 2022 to 2032, with approximately 1,000 annual job openings throughout this period. These openings come from both new positions and the need to replace paralegals who transfer to other occupations or retire.
Growth Factors in Washington
Several factors contribute to Washington’s strong paralegal job market:
Economic Expansion: Washington’s GDP continues to grow, driven by technology companies, aerospace manufacturers, international trade, and a thriving startup ecosystem. This economic activity generates significant legal work across corporate law, intellectual property, contracts, employment law, and regulatory compliance.
Attorney Growth: The 13.6% increase in active lawyers between 2011 and 2021 signals an expanding legal services market. As law firms grow and new practices open, they need skilled paralegals to handle increased caseloads efficiently.
Cost-Conscious Legal Services: Law firms and corporate legal departments increasingly rely on paralegals to perform substantive legal work that doesn’t require an attorney’s license. This shift allows firms to provide cost-effective services while maintaining quality, creating more opportunities for skilled paralegals.
Regulatory Complexity: Constantly evolving regulations across environmental law, healthcare, technology, data privacy, and international trade create ongoing demand for paralegals to help attorneys navigate complex compliance requirements.
Industries Hiring Paralegals
Washington paralegals find employment across diverse sectors:
Law Firms: From small practices to major national firms like Perkins Coie, Davis Wright Tremaine, and K&L Gates, law firms remain the largest employers of paralegals. Opportunities exist in general practice firms and specialized practices focusing on particular areas of law.
Corporate Legal Departments: Technology companies (Microsoft, Amazon, T-Mobile), aerospace firms (Boeing), retailers (Nordstrom, Costco), and healthcare organizations all maintain in-house legal departments that hire paralegals. These positions often offer excellent benefits, regular hours, and opportunities to develop deep expertise in specific industries.
Government Agencies: Federal, state, and local government bodies employ paralegals in various capacities, from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal agencies to county prosecutors and city attorneys. Government positions typically offer strong job security and comprehensive benefits.
Nonprofit Organizations: Legal aid societies, advocacy groups, and other nonprofit organizations hire paralegals to support their missions, often focusing on public-interest law, social justice, or community services.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Washington offers multiple pathways for career advancement:
Senior Paralegal Positions: With experience, you can advance to senior paralegal roles with greater autonomy, higher compensation, and responsibility for mentoring junior staff.
Practice Area Specialization: Developing expertise in high-demand areas like intellectual property, technology law, securities, or healthcare law can significantly increase your value and earning potential.
Management Roles: Experienced paralegals may move into paralegal manager or legal operations roles, overseeing paralegal teams, managing workflows, and contributing to firm administration.
Expanded Practice Authority: Washington’s LPO designation enables independent work in real estate closings, opening entrepreneurial opportunities not available in most states.
Professional Associations
Joining professional associations provides networking opportunities, continuing education, professional development resources, and connections that can advance your career.
Washington State Bar Association (WSBA)
The WSBA oversees legal professional standards in Washington and historically offered paralegal credentials:
Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) was designed for paralegals who wanted to work independently in family law matters. The WSBA described this credential as an excellent opportunity for experienced paralegals who wanted to work independently or start their own business. However, the LLLT program was sunset in 2020 and no longer accepts new applicants. Existing licensees may continue practicing under their credentials. The program’s closure represents a setback for expanding access to legal services, though it provided valuable insights for future limited licensing initiatives.
Limited Practice Officer (LPO) authorizes paralegals to select, prepare, and complete documents in pre-approved forms for real estate transactions. Qualifying requires passing a four-hour exam covering property and real estate law. This credential remains active and available.
Washington State Paralegal Association (WSPA)
Affiliated with the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), the WSPA offers four membership levels:
Member: Open to paralegals who live or work in Washington and have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, including 24 semester credits in paralegal studies, or three years of paralegal work experience
Associate Member: Open to any paralegal outside the state, as well as in-state non-practicing and retired paralegals
Student Member: Open to full-time students enrolled in a paralegal studies program
Sustaining Member: Open to any person or entity that supports the WSPA
Five local chapters serve the greater Seattle area:
- East King County Chapter
- Northwest Chapter
- Seattle Chapter
- Snohomish County Chapter
- South Puget Sound Chapter
NALS of Washington
A state-level affiliate of NALS, this organization and its local chapters encourage NALS paralegal certifications and membership. NALS of Washington includes these local chapters:
- NALS of Kitsap County
- NALS of Greater Seattle
- NALS of Pierce County
- NALS of Spokane
Membership options include Individual (for those engaged in legal work), Associate (for educators, judges, and attorneys), Students (taking at least nine semester credits in a legal-related program), Retired (members with at least five years of prior NALS affiliation), Life (for qualified individual members), and International (for those residing outside the US).
Top Employers & Law Firms
Washington is home to some of the most respected law firms in the Western United States. These firms are among the area’s major employers of paralegals:
- Perkins Coie
- Davis Wright Tremaine
- K&L Gates
- Foster Pepper
- Lane Powell
- Stoel Rives
- Williams Kastner
- Dorsey & Whitney
- Gordon, Thomas, Honewell, Malanca, Peterson & Daheim
- Garvey Schubert Barer
- Karr Tuttle Campbell
- Reddell Williams P.S.
- Keller Rohrback
- Graham & Dunn
- Paine Hamblen
- Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland
- Ogden Murphy Wallace
- Miller Nash
- Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
- Hillis Clark Martin & Peterson
- Witherspoon, Kelley, Davenport & Toole
- Carney Badley Spellman
- Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt
Beyond traditional law firms, major employers include:
- Technology companies: Microsoft, Amazon, T-Mobile
- Aerospace: Boeing
- Retail: Nordstrom, Costco, Starbucks
- Government: U.S. Attorney’s Office, Washington State Attorney General, county prosecutors
- Healthcare systems: Providence Health, Virginia Mason, MultiCare
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Washington require paralegal certification or licensing?
No, Washington doesn’t require paralegals to be certified, licensed, or registered to work in the field. However, completing a formal paralegal education program and earning voluntary national certifications significantly improves your job prospects and earning potential. Washington previously offered the Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) credential for independent family law practice, but this program was sunset in 2020 and no longer accepts new applicants. The Limited Practice Officer (LPO) credential for real estate closings remains available and expands your practice authority beyond traditional paralegal roles.
How long does it take to become a paralegal in Washington?
The timeline depends on your chosen educational path. Certificate programs can be completed in 6-12 months if you already have a degree or significant college credits. An associate’s degree takes about two years of full-time study, while a bachelor’s degree requires four years. Many programs offer part-time, evening, and online options that allow you to study while working, extending the timeline but providing flexibility.
What salary can I expect as a paralegal in Washington?
Washington offers some of the highest paralegal salaries in the nation, ranking second after California. According to May 2024 BLS data, the median salary is $74,890 annually, with the average at $82,130. Entry-level paralegals earn around $52,240, while experienced professionals in the top 10% earn $115,120 or more. The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area offers the highest salaries, with average salaries around $88,540 and top earners earning $117,960. Your actual salary depends on your experience, specialization, employer type, and location within the state.
Can I work as a paralegal in Washington without a degree?
Technically yes, since Washington has no legal requirements for paralegal education or certification. However, most employers strongly prefer, or even require, candidates to have at least an associate’s degree or certificate in paralegal studies from an accredited program. Without formal education, you’ll face significant challenges competing for positions, especially at reputable law firms and corporate legal departments. Formal education is also required if you want to pursue national certifications or Washington’s LPO credential.
What are ex parte filing privileges and how do I qualify?
Ex parte filing privileges allow Washington paralegals to present certain emergency court filings without an attorney present, something rare in most states. These include protection orders, guardianships, and other time-sensitive matters. Currently, four counties offer this privilege: King, Snohomish, Pierce, and Spokane. To qualify, you need at least six months of attorney-supervised paralegal experience, formal paralegal education or equivalent experience, completion of courses in ethics and your specialty area, and registration through your county’s bar association. Your employer typically initiates this process.
Are online paralegal programs accepted in Washington?
Yes, online and hybrid paralegal programs are widely accepted in Washington, particularly if they’re from regionally accredited institutions. Several Washington schools offer online or hybrid options, including Peninsula College, Renton Technical College, and Whatcom Community College. When choosing an online program, verify it’s from an accredited institution and consider whether it’s ABA-approved if you plan to pursue national certification or the LPO credential.
What happened to the LLLT program?
The Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT) program was a pioneering credential that allowed paralegals to practice family law independently without attorney supervision. The program was sunset by the Washington State Bar Association in 2020 and no longer accepts new applicants. Existing LLLT licensees may continue practicing under their credentials. While the program’s closure was disappointing for those interested in expanding access to legal services, the LPO credential for real estate closings remains available as an alternative path to expanded practice authority.
Why is ABA approval important for paralegal programs?
American Bar Association (ABA) approval indicates a paralegal program meets rigorous educational standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, and student services. While not legally required to work as a paralegal, ABA approval matters for several reasons. Many national certification programs require graduation from an ABA-approved program to be eligible for their exams. Some employers, particularly larger law firms, prefer or require candidates from ABA-approved programs. ABA approval provides quality assurance that you’re receiving comprehensive, current legal education that meets professional standards.
Key Takeaways
- Washington requires no certification or licensing to work as a paralegal, but formal education from an accredited program significantly improves employment prospects and earning potential.
- Washington paralegals earn a median annual salary of $74,890, ranking second nationally in paralegal compensation. The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area offers the highest salaries, averaging $88,540 per year.
- Unique practice privileges set Washington apart, including the ability to present ex parte court filings in four counties and the Limited Practice Officer (LPO) credential for real estate closings. The LLLT program for family law was sunset in 2020.
- Multiple educational pathways exist, from 6-12 month certificate programs to associate’s and bachelor’s degrees, with many schools offering online and hybrid options for flexibility.
- The strong job outlook continues through 2032, with approximately 1,000 annual job openings driven by the state’s economic growth, the expanding legal services sector, and major employers such as Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing, and leading law firms.
- Professional associations, including WSPA, NALS of Washington, and the Washington State Bar Association, provide networking, continuing education, and pathways to credentials that expand your career opportunities.
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Washington?
Explore accredited programs and flexible training options that fit your schedule and career goals. Compare Washington’s top paralegal programs and take the first step toward a rewarding legal career.
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.
