Skip to Main Content

Home Explore Careers

Paralegals

Employment Prospects

Employers

Paralegals and legal assistants hold approximately 325,700 jobs. The majority work for lawyers in law offices or in law firms. Other paralegals work for the government, namely for the Federal Trade Commission, Justice Department, Treasury Department, Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Interior, and many other agencies and offices. Paralegals also work in the business community. Anywhere legal matters are part of the day-to-day work, paralegals are usually handling them. Paralegals fit in well in business because many smaller corporations must deal with legal regulations but don't necessarily need an attorney or a team of lawyers.

Paralegals in business can be found all over the country. Larger cities employ more paralegals that focus on the legal side of the profession, and government paralegals will find the most opportunities in state capitals and Washington, D.C.

Starting Out

Although some law firms promote legal secretaries to paralegal status, most employers prefer to hire individuals who have completed paralegal programs. To have the best opportunity at getting a quality job in the paralegal field, you should attend a paralegal school. In addition to providing a solid background in paralegal studies, most schools help graduates find jobs, or internships that lead to jobs. Those with the best credentials will get the best jobs.

Related Professions
Featured Companies