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Entry Level Legal Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

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Entry Level Legal Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$26.4K

$47.2K

$72.5K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level legal assistant in Rhode Island is $47,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,200.00 and $53,900.00 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.
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Cities in Rhode Island with the most Entry Level Legal Assistant job openings:

Entry Level Legal Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Legal Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,218 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Administrative Office Assistant

Partridge Snow & Hahn LLP

Providence, RI • On-site

$18.59 - $21.04/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description:

This entry-level position is responsible for performing clerical and administrative tasks to support legal assistants, attorneys, and paralegals in their daily activities. 


Core Functions:

  • Performs clerical duties including typing, copy, scanning, and creating PDF documents.
  • Operates office machines including copiers, scanners, telephone, computers, and other standard office equipment. 
  • Prepare mailings including normal USPS, certified mail, FedEx packages or outside messenger deliveries. 
  • Maintain attorneys calendar appointments. This includes coordinating and scheduling business travel arrangements, attendance at seminars, events etc.
  • Respond to internal and external calls, contacting clients and scheduling conference calls. 
  • Record time into the firm’s accounting system accurately and in a timely manner. This includes proof time entries by attorneys. 
  • Performs other related duties as required or assigned, some of which may be essential to the position. 


Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to type at least 50 words per minute with accuracy.
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
  • Basic to intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including document formatting.
  • Willingness to learn legal terminology, procedures, and office workflows.
  • Strong work ethic with a desire for professional growth in the legal field.


Education and Experience:

  • Certificate or Associate degree in secretarial studies, or related field preferred, not required.
  • 1-year professional office experience preferred. 


Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Prolonged periods standing at a copy machine or scanner.
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.


How to apply:

If you are interested, please apply through our website: www.psh.com. All submissions are confidential.


Partridge Snow & Hahn LLP is an EEO employer. 

Requirements: