Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Overview
Paralegals and legal assistants are the behind-the-scenes heroes who keep law offices running smoothly by researching cases, organizing important documents, and helping lawyers prepare for court. They use modern legal databases and case management software to investigate facts, draft legal documents like contracts, and coordinate with clients and witnesses. This career offers great opportunities to work in various legal settings, from corporate law firms to government agencies, and typically requires completing a paralegal certificate program or associate degree. The work involves both independent research tasks and collaborative teamwork with attorneys in fast-paced, professional environments.
Did you know?
Most positions require completion of a paralegal certificate program or associate degree, with many employers preferring candidates certified by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA).
At a Glance
Median Wage
$58,958.63 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Service Orientation
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare, edit, or review legal documents, including legislation, briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, and real estate closing statements.
- Meet with clients and other professionals to discuss details of cases.
- Keep and monitor legal volumes to ensure that the law library is up-to-date.
- 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.
- Gather and analyze research data, such as statutes, decisions, and legal articles, codes, and documents.
- Call upon witnesses to testify at hearings.
- Prepare affidavits or other documents, such as legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing system.
- Appraise and inventory real and personal property for estate planning.
- Prepare for trial by performing tasks such as organizing exhibits.
- Arbitrate disputes between parties and assist in the real estate closing process, such as by reviewing title searches.
- Direct and coordinate law office activity, including delivery of subpoenas.
- File pleadings with court clerks.
Career Considerations
Educational Requirements and Certification
Most positions require completion of a paralegal certificate program or associate degree, with many employers preferring candidates certified by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA).
Technology Proficiency
Legal support specialists must be proficient in legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, case management software, and e-discovery tools that are standard in American law firms.
Career Advancement and Salary Expectations
The median salary ranges from $35,000-$65,000 annually depending on location and experience, with advancement opportunities to senior paralegal roles or specialized areas like litigation support or compliance.