Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Assist 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.
Common Job Titles
- Legal Assistant
- Legal Clerk
- Paralegal
- Paralegal Specialist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeAnalyze case facts, legal precedents, and statutory materials using legal research databases such as LexisNexis and Westlaw to support litigation strategies.Proficient
- KnowledgePrepare legal documents, pleadings, and discovery materials following established procedural rules and attorney supervision.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate information for compliance with legal standards and procedural requirements when reviewing discovery materials and court filings.Proficient
- KnowledgeSynthesize complex legal information from multiple sources into coherent case summaries supporting attorneys in trial preparation and brief writing.Proficient
- KnowledgeOrganize case timelines and evidence using litigation support software managing electronic discovery and document review processes under time constraints.Proficient
- MindsetPrioritize competing deadlines and case requirements balancing multiple attorney demands and court filing schedules.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret legal terminology and procedural rules when communicating case status to clients and external stakeholders.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply document management and records organization procedures using systems such as iManage and NetDocuments to maintain case files.Developing
- MindsetEngage with clients, witnesses, and court personnel demonstrating professionalism and maintaining confidentiality.Developing
- MindsetSupport client service objectives and legal team collaboration when coordinating work activities with attorneys and support staff.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Paralegals and Legal Assistants (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
367,220
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $39,710. 25th percentile: U.S. $48,190. 50th percentile: U.S. $61,010. 75th percentile: U.S. $78,280. 90th percentile: U.S. $98,990. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $39,710 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $98,990 |
| Workers on average earn | $66,510 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Law and Government4.8/5
- English Language4.4/5
- Administrative4.2/5
- Computers and Electronics3.9/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Acrobat
- Google Docs
- Google Workspace software
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Word
- Zoom
Technology Skills
- AbacusNext HotDocs
- American LegalNet USCourtForms
- Appligent Citation FDFMerge
- Blumbeg Drafting Libraries
- Bowne JFS Litigator's Notebook
- Bridgeway eCounsel
- Case analysis software
- CaseSoft DepPrep
Tools & Equipment
- Desktop computers
- Image scanners
- Laser facsimile machines
- Notebook computers
- Optical character recognition equipment
- Personal computers
- Photocopiers
- Scanners