What Paralegals DoAssist lawyers by investigating facts, preparing legal documents, or researching legal precedent. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.
- Prepare affidavits or other documents, such as legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing system.
- Prepare legal documents, including briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, and real estate closing statements.
- Prepare for trial by performing tasks such as organizing exhibits.
- Investigate facts and law of cases and search pertinent sources, such as public records and internet sources, to determine causes of action and to prepare cases.
- Meet with clients and other professionals to discuss details of case.
Paralegals Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationAssociate Degree
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time1 to 2 years
Job Openings39,300 Annually
Median Earnings
$72,960 in California
$61,010 Nationally
$0
$25K
$50K
$75K
$100K
$125K
$150K
$175K
$200K
$225K
$250K
Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
@Katfitnlift
@Katfitnlift
@Clearwaterlawgroup
@Stopgap_aus
@the702firm
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Influencing or leading others
- Thinking and problem solving
- Using data or completing tasks
you value
- Having support
- Job security
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Instructing
- Learning Strategies
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Paralegals Explained
ParalegalExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
find training near you
Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.
Enter your location to see training near you
