Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
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.
Median pay: $62,890/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +0.2% projected growth, 2024–2034 — slower than average.
About 39,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Prepare affidavits or other documents, such as legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing system.
• Prepare, edit, or review legal documents, including legislation, briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, and real estate closing statements.
• 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.
• Prepare for trial by performing tasks such as organizing exhibits.
• Meet with clients and other professionals to discuss details of cases.
• Gather and analyze research data, such as statutes, decisions, and legal articles, codes, and documents.
What's the median pay for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?
The median pay for Paralegals and Legal Assistants is $62,890 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?
Employment for Paralegals and Legal Assistants is projected to change +0.2% from 2024 to 2034 - slower than average.
What education is typically required for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Paralegals and Legal Assistants?
About 39,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.