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Explore Job Roles: Paralegals and Legal Assistants

Learn about the average salary, relevant studies, related questions, and common path post-college to becoming Paralegals and Legal Assistants.

What are Paralegals and Legal Assistants?

Paralegals and Legal Assistants are responsible for assisting lawyers prepare for hearings, trials, and other related matters.

Where do Paralegals and Legal Assistants work?

  • Law firms
  • Government
  • Corporate legal departments

How much do Paralegals and Legal Assistants make?

Based on real new grad salaries reported through Handshake, the median annual salary for Paralegals and Legal Assistants is $42,000.

What majors are typically interested in becoming Paralegals and Legal Assistants?

One’s major doesn’t necessarily determine their career, but these are some common majors of those who end up pursuing this career path.

  • Political science majors
  • History majors
  • Criminal justice majors
  • English majors

Search Paralegal/Legal Assistant jobs on Handshake

Paralegal and Legal Assistant skills and competencies:

On top of a relevant degree and formal training, here are some professional skills that can help aspiring Paralegals and Legal Assistants succeed in their work:

  • Great research skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Good communication and client relation skills

What are some common questions about Paralegals and Legal Assistants?

Q: What’s the difference between a Paralegal and a Legal Assistant?

A: While Paralegals are more involved in hands-on technicalities of the law, Legal Assistants are concerned with similar, but broader tasks.

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