Paralegals and legal assistants
Paralegals and legal assistants is an occupation catalogued under SOC 23-2011. The role reports a median annual salary of $61,010 in the US and is projected to grow 20% over the next decade (much faster than average). Entry typically requires a Associate's degree, and shows high AI exposure (0.78 on a 0-1 scale) — significant portions of core tasks are already being automated.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Paralegals and legal assistants earn?
The median annual salary for Paralegals and legal assistants in the US is $61,010.
What is the job outlook for Paralegals and legal assistants?
The role is projected to grow 20% over the next decade (much faster than average). Current US employment is approximately 376,200 workers.
How do I become paralegals and legal assistants?
The typical entry education is a Associate's degree. Building a foundation in the top skills below will strengthen your application.
Will AI replace Paralegals and legal assistants?
Our AI-durability model gives Paralegals and legal assistants a score of 0.78 on a 0-1 scale (higher = more exposure). That places it at high AI risk — many core tasks are already being automated by generative AI and workflow tools. Focus on AI-adjacent skills or plan a pivot to an AI-durable adjacent role.
How hard is it to enter this field?
Paralegals and legal assistants has moderate barrier to entry — moderately gated — a bachelor's degree or equivalent training is typically required.
Is Paralegals and legal assistants right for you?
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