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 - Litigation - Hybrid Position
Skepsis Legal Solutions - Post Falls , ID
As a litigation paralegal you will find yourself at the center of the legal process, playing an essential role in managing and organizing legal proceedings. This dynamic role allows you to contribute ...
ZipRecruiter ATS Jobs for ZipSearch/ZipAlerts - Today
Estates Planning Paralegal
Provision People - Fountain Valley , CA
Our award-winning client is seeking an Estates Planning Paralegal to join their team. Our firm is seeking a qualified estate planning Paralegal to join our growing team in Fountain Valley, CA. In ...
ZipRecruiter ATS Jobs for ZipSearch/ZipAlerts - Today
LEGAL ASSISTANT / SECRETARY / PARALEGAL
Now Hiring You, LLC - Miami , FL
LEGAL ASSISTANT / SECRETARY / PARALEGAL Location: Miami, Florida, 33131 A client of ours is searching for an experienced Paralegal/Legal Secretary to join theirlegal team! The candidate would be ...
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Trusts & Estates Administration Paralegal
Top Tier Reps LLC - Boca Raton , FL
Our client is seeking a Trust and Estate Administration Paralegal with 5 plus years experience to join their New Jersey, New York or Florida Offices. Salary is commensurate with experience. The ...
ZipRecruiter ATS Jobs for ZipSearch/ZipAlerts - 1 day ago
Senior Paralegal
Griswold Law, APC - Encinitas , CA
Griswold Law is seeking a Senior Paralegal to assist with our growing receivership practice. This is an opportunity to join a boutique law firm operating in the dynamic area of receivership law. The ...
ZipRecruiter ATS Jobs for ZipSearch/ZipAlerts - 1 day ago
Senior Paralegal - Estate Planning
Infrahire - Chesterfield , MO
Are you an experienced paralegal with a passion for estate planning? We are seeking a SUPERSTAR Senior Paralegal to lead and build a dynamic team in our esteemed law firm. If you thrive in a fast ...
ZipRecruiter ATS Jobs for ZipSearch/ZipAlerts - 1 day ago