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How to Become a Paralegal
Quick answer: how to become a paralegal
Complete a paralegal education program (certificate in 6-12 months or associate degree in 2 years), consider earning voluntary certification (CP, RP, or PP), and apply for positions in law firms, corporations, or government agencies. Most paralegals start working within 6 months to 2 years of beginning their education, depending on the program chosen.
What does a paralegal do?
Paralegals are essential members of legal teams who assist attorneys with case preparation, legal research, document drafting, and client communication. They perform substantive legal work under attorney supervision, helping law firms and legal departments operate efficiently while ensuring clients receive quality representation.
Primary Responsibilities
Legal Research and Writing:
- Research case law, statutes, regulations, and legal precedents
- Draft legal documents including contracts, pleadings, and briefs
- Prepare discovery requests and organize responses
- Summarize depositions and witness statements
- Create case summaries and legal memoranda
Case Management:
- Organize and maintain case files and evidence
- Coordinate document production and e-discovery
- Track deadlines for filings and court appearances
- Prepare trial exhibits and demonstrative materials
- Manage client communication and scheduling
Administrative Support:
- Interview clients and witnesses
- File documents with courts and government agencies
- Maintain legal databases and document management systems
- Coordinate with experts, court reporters, and other professionals
- Handle billing and time tracking
Specialized Tasks:
- Real estate closings and title searches
- Corporate filings and compliance documentation
- Immigration form preparation
- Bankruptcy petition assembly
- Estate planning document preparation
Work Environment
Paralegals primarily work in office settings during standard business hours, though deadline-driven work may require overtime. Most work for:
- Private law firms (largest employer)
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies
- Public interest organizations
- Insurance companies
- Financial institutions
Certification Types for Paralegals
While certification is voluntary in most states, earning credentials demonstrates competence and can improve job prospects and salary.
Certified paralegal (CP)
Issuing Organization: National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
Requirements:
- Graduate from an ABA-approved paralegal program, OR
- Graduate from an accredited paralegal program, OR
- Bachelor’s degree plus one year paralegal experience, OR
- High school diploma plus seven years paralegal experience
Exam Details:
- Knowledge exam (2 hours) plus writing exam (2 hours)
- Covers legal terminology, research, ethics, and substantive law
- $275 exam fee for NALA members, $300 for non-members
Renewal: Every 5 years with 50 continuing education hours
Registered paralegal (RP)
Issuing Organization: National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree plus completion of paralegal program, OR
- Associate paralegal degree plus 6 years experience
Exam Details:
- PACE exam (Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam)
- Computer-based, 2 hours
- Covers research, ethics, and general law
- $275 exam fee
Renewal: Every 2 years with 12 continuing education hours
Professional paralegal (PP)
Issuing Organization: NALS (formerly National Association of Legal Secretaries)
Requirements:
- 5 years of paralegal experience within the last 7 years, OR
- Bachelor’s degree plus 1 year paralegal experience
Exam Details:
- 4-part exam covering written communication, legal knowledge, ethics, and judgment
- $275 exam fee
Renewal: Every 5 years with 75 continuing education hours
State-specific requirements
Most states do not license paralegals, but some have registration or title protection:
| State | Requirement |
|---|---|
| California | Specific education/experience requirements to use “paralegal” title |
| Florida | No license; voluntary registration available |
| Maine | No license required; paralegals may attend real estate closings |
| Ohio | Voluntary certification through state bar association |
| Texas | No license; voluntary certification encouraged |
Step-by-step path to becoming a paralegal
Step 1: meet basic requirements
Education: High school diploma or GED required
Recommended Preparation:
- Strong writing and communication skills
- Attention to detail and organizational ability
- Research and analytical thinking
- Computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, databases)
- Interest in law and legal processes
Step 2: complete a paralegal education program
Choose from several educational pathways:
Certificate Programs (6-12 months)
- Focused paralegal training
- Ideal for career changers with existing degrees
- More affordable option
- Fast entry to the field
Associate Degree Programs (2 years)
- Comprehensive legal education
- Includes general education courses
- Better foundation for advancement
- May qualify for more positions
Bachelor’s Degree Programs (4 years)
- Most comprehensive preparation
- Often includes internship opportunities
- Best long-term career prospects
- Required for some certifications
Core Curriculum:
- Legal research and writing
- Civil litigation procedures
- Contracts and torts
- Criminal law basics
- Real estate and property law
- Family law
- Corporate law and business organizations
- Legal ethics and professional responsibility
Step 3: consider program accreditation
ABA-Approved Programs:
- Meet American Bar Association standards
- Recognized by most employers
- Required for some certifications
- Higher quality assurance
Institutionally Accredited Programs:
- Accredited by regional or national bodies
- May be more accessible
- Often less expensive
- Check employer preferences in your area
Step 4: gain practical experience
Internships and practical experience strengthen your resume:
- Complete internship or externship during program
- Seek entry-level legal assistant positions
- Volunteer at legal aid organizations
- Consider part-time work in law offices
Step 5: obtain voluntary certification
After meeting experience requirements:
- Choose certification that fits your goals (CP, RP, or PP)
- Verify eligibility requirements
- Study using exam preparation materials
- Schedule and pass certification exam
- Maintain certification through continuing education
Step 6: begin your career
Entry-Level Positions:
- Paralegal
- Legal assistant
- Legal secretary (transitional)
- Law clerk
Where New Paralegals Find Work:
- Small to mid-size law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies (local, state, federal)
- Legal aid organizations
- Insurance companies
Training programs and education options
Program types comparison
| Program Type | Duration | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 6-12 months | $4,000-$10,000 | Career changers |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | $8,000-$20,000 | Entry-level career |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years | $25,000-$80,000 | Maximum advancement |
| Post-Baccalaureate | 6-12 months | $5,000-$15,000 | Degree holders |
| Online Programs | Varies | $3,000-$15,000 | Working adults |
What to look for in a program
Accreditation: ABA approval or regional accreditation
Curriculum: Comprehensive coverage of legal specialties
Internship: Required or available practical experience
Graduate Employment: Job placement rates and employer connections
Faculty: Practicing attorneys or experienced paralegals as instructors
Technology: Training in legal research databases (Westlaw, LexisNexis)
Online vs. in-person training
Online Programs:
- Flexibility for working adults
- Often more affordable
- Self-paced options available
- May require in-person exams
In-Person Programs:
- Direct interaction with instructors
- Networking opportunities
- Structured learning environment
- Easier access to internships
Cost breakdown: paralegal training
Tuition and Fees
| Program Type | Tuition Range | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Community College Certificate | $4,000-$8,000 | $300-$600 |
| Community College Associate | $8,000-$15,000 | $500-$1,000 |
| Private/Technical School | $10,000-$20,000 | $500-$1,500 |
| University Bachelor’s | $25,000-$80,000 | $1,000-$3,000 |
| Online Certificate | $3,000-$10,000 | $200-$500 |
Additional Expenses
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Textbooks and course materials | $500-$1,500 |
| Legal research database access | Often included |
| Background check (for internships) | $50-$100 |
| Certification exam fee | $250-$300 |
| Professional association dues | $100-$200/year |
| Business attire | $200-$500 |
Financial aid options
- Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 annually for qualifying students
- Federal Student Loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized options
- State Grants: Many states offer education grants
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Law firms may sponsor education
- Scholarships: Professional associations offer scholarships
- Payment Plans: Many schools offer installment options
Paralegal salary and job outlook
National salary data
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $36,582-$48,776 |
| Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $48,776-$60,970 |
| Experienced (8-15 years) | $60,970-$79,261 |
| Senior/Specialist (15+ years) | $79,261-$91,455 |
Salary by Work Setting
| Setting | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Federal Government | $70,000-$80,000 |
| Finance and Insurance | $65,000-$72,000 |
| Local Government | $55,000-$62,000 |
| Legal Services (Law Firms) | $58,000-$65,000 |
| State Government | $52,000-$58,000 |
Salary by Specialty
| Specialty Area | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Intellectual Property | $65,000-$85,000 |
| Corporate/Securities | $60,000-$80,000 |
| Litigation | $55,000-$75,000 |
| Real Estate | $50,000-$65,000 |
| Family Law | $45,000-$60,000 |
Job Outlook
- Current Employment: 345,800 paralegals nationwide
- Projected Growth (2022-2032): 4% (about as fast as average)
- Annual Job Openings: 32,600 positions
- Growth Factors: Law firms seeking cost-efficiency, increased regulatory complexity, corporate legal needs
Salary by State
Career advancement opportunities
Specialization Options
Practice Area Specialties:
- Litigation paralegal
- Corporate paralegal
- Real estate paralegal
- Intellectual property paralegal
- Immigration paralegal
- Bankruptcy paralegal
- Family law paralegal
- Criminal defense paralegal
Industry Specialties:
- Healthcare compliance
- Environmental law
- Entertainment law
- Technology and cybersecurity
- E-discovery specialist
Advanced Roles
| Role | Requirements | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Paralegal | 5+ years experience | $65,000-$85,000 |
| Paralegal Manager | 7+ years + leadership skills | $70,000-$95,000 |
| Litigation Support Manager | E-discovery expertise | $75,000-$100,000 |
| Compliance Specialist | Specialized knowledge | $65,000-$90,000 |
| Legal Operations Manager | Business + legal skills | $80,000-$110,000 |
Related career transitions
- Law School: Some paralegals pursue J.D. degrees
- Compliance Officer: Corporate regulatory work
- Contract Manager: Business contract administration
- Court Administrator: Court system management
- Legal Technology: Law firm technology solutions
Pros and challenges of this career
Benefits
- Direct involvement in legal work without law school
- Above-average salary for education required
- Multiple specialization options
- Growing remote work opportunities
- Transferable skills across industries
- Intellectually stimulating work
- Professional work environment
- Clear advancement pathways
Challenges
- Heavy workloads during trials and deadlines
- Cannot give legal advice or represent clients
- Overtime may be required during busy periods
- Detail-intensive work requires constant focus
- Exposure to sensitive or emotionally difficult cases
- Some tasks can be repetitive
- Career ceiling without law degree
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a paralegal?
Certificate programs typically take 6-12 months, while associate degrees take 2 years. Including education and initial job search, most people begin working as paralegals within 1-2 years. Those pursuing bachelor’s degrees take 4 years, though they may work as paralegals while completing their degree.
Is paralegal a good career choice?
Paralegal offers a meaningful career in law with above-average pay ($60,970 median) relative to education required. With 32,600 annual job openings and opportunities across law firms, corporations, and government, job prospects remain steady. The role suits those who enjoy research, writing, and working with detailed information.
Do paralegals need to be certified?
No, certification is voluntary in most states. However, certification (CP, RP, or PP) demonstrates competence and can improve job prospects and salary. Some employers prefer or require certification, especially for senior positions.
What is the difference between a paralegal and a legal assistant?
The terms are often used interchangeably. However, “paralegal” typically refers to professionals who perform substantive legal work under attorney supervision, while “legal assistant” may include more administrative functions. Job duties depend on the specific employer rather than the title.
Can paralegals work from home?
Yes, remote work has expanded significantly in the legal field. Many paralegals work remotely or in hybrid arrangements, particularly in research, document review, and corporate settings. However, some positions require in-office presence for client meetings, filing, or court appearances.
What is the hardest part of being a paralegal?
Many paralegals cite managing heavy workloads during trial preparation and meeting tight deadlines as the most challenging aspects. The work requires constant attention to detail, and mistakes can have significant consequences. Exposure to emotionally difficult cases (family law, criminal defense) can also be challenging.
How much do paralegals make per hour?
Based on national averages, paralegals earn approximately $25-$29 per hour at the median level. Entry-level positions start around $18-$23 per hour, while experienced paralegals in high-paying specialties can earn $38-$44 per hour.
What skills do paralegals need?
Essential skills include legal research and writing, attention to detail, organizational ability, computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, legal software), communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure. Knowledge of legal terminology and procedures is also fundamental.
Is paralegal work stressful?
Paralegal work can be stressful, particularly during trial preparation, litigation deadlines, or when handling high-stakes cases. The need for accuracy, managing multiple cases simultaneously, and long hours during busy periods contribute to stress. However, many find the intellectual challenge rewarding.
Can paralegals become lawyers?
Yes, though it requires attending law school and passing the bar exam. Some states allow experienced paralegals to take the bar exam without law school (California, Vermont, Virginia, Washington), but this path is uncommon. Many paralegals pursue law degrees while working part-time.
What types of law firms hire paralegals?
All types of law firms hire paralegals, from solo practitioners to large international firms. Common practice areas include litigation, corporate law, real estate, family law, criminal defense, immigration, bankruptcy, and intellectual property. Government agencies and corporations also employ paralegals.
Do paralegals go to court?
Paralegals do not represent clients in court, as this would constitute unauthorized practice of law. However, they frequently attend court proceedings to assist attorneys, take notes, manage exhibits, and coordinate logistics. Some states allow paralegals to handle specific non-adversarial matters.
How to get started today
Ready to begin your paralegal career? Follow these steps:
- Research Programs: Use the search tool below to find ABA-approved or accredited paralegal programs in your area
- Compare Options: Consider program length, cost, accreditation, and internship opportunities
- Contact Schools: Request information and speak with admissions counselors
- Apply for Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA and explore scholarship opportunities
- Start Your Education: Enroll and begin building your legal knowledge
Additional Resources
Professional Organizations
- National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA): nala.org – CP certification and continuing education
- National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA): paralegals.org – RP certification and advocacy
- NALS: nals.org – PP certification and professional development
- American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE): aafpe.org – Educational standards and resources
Certification Information
- NALA CP Exam: Study guides, practice tests, and exam registration
- NFPA PACE Exam: Requirements and preparation materials
- State Bar Associations: Local paralegal certification and regulations
Accreditation Resources
- American Bar Association: americanbar.org – List of ABA-approved paralegal programs
- Regional Accreditors: Verify institutional accreditation
Career Development
- Legal Research Training: Westlaw and LexisNexis certifications
- E-Discovery Training: Growing specialty area
- Continuing Education: Required for certification maintenance