⭐ Bright Outlook

Paralegals and Legal Assistants

O*NET 23-2011.00 · SOC 23-2011

Projected Growth
+14%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$63k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
39k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Research case law, statutes, and legal precedents
  • Draft legal documents and correspondence
  • Organize and manage case files and evidence
  • Assist attorneys with trial preparation
  • Coordinate client communications and scheduling

Education & How to Get In

📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Most Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.

Get Started Learning

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Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
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Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
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LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Structured — offices, data centers, or remote

Work Style

Independent — focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Paralegals and Legal Assistants involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningResearch case law, statutes, and legal precedents
MiddayDraft legal documents and correspondence
AfternoonOrganize and manage case files and evidence

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Conventional (Organizers)5.3
Investigative (Thinkers)5.0
Enterprising (Persuaders)3.9
Social (Helpers)3.1
Artistic (Creators)2.2
Realistic (Doers)1.7

Who Thrives as Paralegal?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ENTJThe CommanderINTJThe StrategistISTJThe InspectorESTJThe Executive

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Paralegals and Legal Assistants Roles

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Is Paralegals and Legal Assistants right for you?

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