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Entry Level Legal Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Record all information provided by clients, and forward it to lawyers, or legal assistants ... High school diploma or GED * Entry level experience working in an office setting, preferably in the ...

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Entry Level Legal Assistant information

See California salary details

$26.6K

$47.6K

$73K

How much do entry level legal assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level legal assistant in California is $47,584.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $54,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level legal assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Legal Assistant, you need organizational skills, attention to detail, basic legal knowledge, and at least a high school diploma or associate’s degree. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, Microsoft Office, and document management systems is typically required. Strong communication, discretion, and the ability to multitask under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient support for legal teams, accuracy in documentation, and effective client service.

What does an entry level legal assistant do?

As an entry-level legal assistant, your responsibilities are to assist paralegals and lawyers with research, help draft and file legal documents, and provide administrative support as needed. Specific tasks may include preparing affidavits, creating the first drafts of court filings or other documents for the principal lawyer on the case, and recording interviews or depositions. Your duties also include many secretarial tasks, such as word processing, updating and keeping files straight, taking messages for lawyers or other office workers, and preparing invoices and other billing documents for the firm.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level legal assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level legal assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of administrative tasks, learning complex legal terminology, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law office. Staying organized, actively seeking feedback from senior staff, and utilizing legal management software can help new assistants manage their workload effectively. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about asking questions are also key strategies for overcoming initial hurdles and growing confidently in the role.

How difficult is it to be an entry level legal assistant?

Becoming an entry-level legal assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring post-secondary education or relevant coursework. The role involves learning legal terminology, document management, and office procedures, but it generally has low to moderate difficulty for individuals with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

How much do entry level legal assistants make?

Entry-level legal assistants in New York City typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on the firm size and their experience. Starting salaries may be higher in larger firms or for those with relevant internships or certifications, and the role often requires familiarity with legal software and strong organizational skills.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Legal Assistant jobs in California?

For Entry Level Legal Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Legal Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Legal Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Legal Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Legal Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Legal Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,584 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

We're looking for an admitted attorney for an extremely promising Entry-Level Criminal Defense Attorney position within a premier law firm with lots of room for growth. This is an opportunity for a dedicated Entry-Level Attorney to gain valuable experience and further their career with an established firm in the Los Angeles area. As the Entry-Level Criminal Defense Attorney, you will report to the Managing Criminal Defense Attorney. The Entry-Level Attorney will manage a caseload, as well as client interaction, and can collaborate with our wonderful Criminal Defense Team of Attorneys and legal assistants.

Responsibilities

  • Advise the client on their legal rights in matters and draw up legal documents about their case
  • Attend pretrial hearings on behalf of clients and advise clients following each hearing about the best strategies
  • Manage court appearances, trials, drafting motions, interviewing witnesses, and performing legal research
  • Analyze probable outcomes of cases using knowledge of legal precedents
  • Manage the workload of cases
  • Provide legal analysis for clients to determine any possible case benefits
  • Accrue additional evidence to support the client's case or for arguments against the prosecution's charges
  • Prepare clients for depositions; determine essential goals of case strategy, and gather information from witnesses and important experts that support the client's positions

Qualifications

  • Demonstrated interest in Criminal Defense law from Law School clinics, volunteer work, or internship experience
  • Juris Doctorate degree
  • Active bar admission (law graduates awaiting admission will also be considered)
  • A team player who is open to helping, strategizing, and working with your fellow associates
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required
  • Interpersonal skills of the highest caliber
  • Record of moving legal cases forward and an ability to manage a caseload
  • Experience with Case Management Software is preferred

Pay Range: $80,000-$100,000

Pay range can be exceeded based on experience on a case-by-case basis

Do you have a passion for Criminal Defense and a desire to practice within an organization with lots of room for growth? Here at the Matian Firm, we offer benefits (medical, dental and vision insurance), an excellent compensation package, paid parking, paid time off, and more! Come work as a Criminal Defense Attorney at a growing firm with opportunities to advance and learn alongside a team of professionals within the legal industry. 

The United Firm | La Liga Defensora, APC is an equal employment opportunity employer, and we welcome everyone regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetics. We are dedicated to providing an inclusive, open, and diverse work environment.