Paralegal Salary in the United States

How much does the average Paralegal make in the United States?


The average salary for a Paralegal in the United States is between $60,490 and $121,740 as of March 26, 2024. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the actual Paralegal position you are looking for. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. View the Cost of Living in Major Cities

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Base Salary

Core compensation

$60,490
$121,740
$91,110

What is a Paralegal?

A Paralegal, sometimes referred to as a legal assistant, supports the activities of attorneys and other legal professionals with research and the preparation of specific legal documentation. Paralegals may meet with clients to gather information and prepare statements or affidavits. They use specialized legal software and systems to collect and record information required for trails, litigation, and contract preparation. Paralegals may specialize in an area like real estate, litigation, intellectual property, bankruptcy, and immigration.


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Paralegal I
Alternate Job Titles: Paralegal , Entry | Paralegal / Legal Assistant I

Assists and supports attorneys with research and document preparation for court proceedings and legal transactions. Utilizes a variety of sources such as statutes, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, and legal codes to research and analyze legal topics. Drafts and edits legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, motions, and contracts. Conducts fact-finding, data colle... View job details

Paralegal II
Alternate Job Titles: Paralegal , Experienced | Paralegal / Legal Assistant II

Assists and supports attorneys with research and document preparation for court proceedings and legal transactions. Utilizes a variety of sources such as statutes, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, and legal codes to research and analyze legal topics. Drafts and edits legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, motions, and contracts. Conducts fact-finding, data colle... View job details

Paralegal III
Alternate Job Titles: Paralegal , Senior | Paralegal / Legal Assistant III

Assists and supports attorneys with research and document preparation for court proceedings and legal transactions. Utilizes a variety of sources such as statutes, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, and legal codes to research and analyze legal topics. Drafts and edits legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, motions, and contracts. Conducts fact-finding, data colle... View job details

Paralegal IV
Alternate Job Titles: Paralegal , Specialist | Paralegal / Legal Assistant IV

Assists and supports attorneys with research and document preparation for court proceedings and legal transactions. Utilizes a variety of sources such as statutes, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, and legal codes to research and analyze legal topics. Drafts and edits legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, motions, and contracts. Conducts fact-finding, data colle... View job details

Research Paralegal I
Alternate Job Titles: Paralegal , Entry | Paralegal / Legal Assistant I

Assists and supports attorneys with research and document preparation for court proceedings and legal transactions. Utilizes a variety of sources such as statutes, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, and legal codes to research and analyze legal topics. Drafts and edits legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, motions, and contracts. Conducts fact-finding, data colle... View job details

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Paralegal

What degree or educational requirements does a paralegal need?

Paralegals typically obtain an Associate's degree or certificate in Paralegal Studies. Some paralegals have a Bachelor's degree in another subject and then obtain paralegal certification. There are a few states that require a paralegal to have a degree, but most do not. Having formal paralegal education will enhance job opportunities as some companies do require either a degree or certification.

What are the best schools offering paralegal programs?

Most schools offer an associate's degree in paralegal studies. Some universities and community colleges offering strong paralegal programs that are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) are Roger Williams University, Bay Path University, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, University of Montana, Eastern Kentucky University, Clayton State University, University of North Georgia, Faulkner University, DeAnza College, and Robert Morris University.

Are paralegals in demand?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook (BLS), employment of paralegals, in general, is projected to grow about 15 percent from 2016 to 2026. The demand for paralegals will be strong as firms try to move some of the tasks performed by attorneys to paralegals. Large companies often have in house legal departments with a staff of paralegals.

What jobs are similar to or related to a paralegal?

Legal Assistant, Legal services specialists

Where can I find more information about paralegals training and career opportunities?

American Bar Association
National Federation of Paralegal Associations

What is the working environment for a paralegal?

A paralegal typically works in an office setting. Paralegals may need to attend court proceedings and sometimes must travel to different locations. Paralegals work with attorneys and other professionals and it is common for paralegals to work under deadlines.

Paralegal Jobs

Job Openings for Paralegal
Paralegal - Plaintiff's First Party Insurance Litigation - State of Florida - 1099 & Fully Remote
Alliance Virtual Solutions - Tampa , FL
This position is a virtual, contract 1099 position that is open to Paralegals in the United States only. Please do not apply if you are living outside of the United States. The ideal candidate will ...
ZipRecruiter ATS Jobs for ZipSearch/ZipAlerts - Today
Commercial Real Estate Paralegal
Macerich Management Company - Santa Monica , CA
Real Estate Paralegal Santa Monica Corporate Office Santa Monica, California Great people make great properties. As a shopping center developer of some of the nation's best real estate in top markets ...
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Probate Paralegal
Merideth Nagel PA - Clermont , FL
The Legacy Legal Team is seeking a Probate Paralegal to join our thriving office in Clermont! We are seeking an experienced Paralegal to assist in our busy guardianship practice area. At least three ...
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Corporate Paralegal
Whitemore James Black, Inc. - Seattle , WA
We are presently assisting the Seattle office of a global law firm on their search for a junior to mid-level corporate paralegal. This role is hybrid-remote, with 3 days being in the Seattle office ...
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Litigation Paralegal
O'Connor & Stolinas Law Group - Orlando , FL
Litigation Paralegal Company: O'Connor & Stolinas Law Group Workplace Type: on-site Contact Email: dmcgowan-sheehanoconlaw.com Industry: Legal Start Date: 2024-04-23 Expire Date: 2024-06-22 City
Adzuna - Today
Litigation Paralegal
S&S Employment Partners - Des Moines , IA
To qualify for the Litigation Paralegal position, you must have general/civil litigation experience. You will also be expected to have: * Experience as Litigation Paralegal * Experience in personal ...
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