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Entry Level Paralegal Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Paralegal information

See Rhode Island salary details

$32.8K

$48.3K

$68.1K

How much do entry level paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level paralegal in Rhode Island is $48,322.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,100.00 and $53,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level paralegal do?

An entry-level paralegal performs research and provides legal support to attorneys. As an entry-level paralegal, your job is to assist one or more attorneys at your firm with a variety of legal research and administrative tasks. You prepare and file legal documents, handle communication with clients, and study statutes and precedents in the law. If the attorneys at the law firm you work for specialize in a particular area of the law, then you must familiarize yourself with the specifics of that legal subspecialty, such as personal injury, family law, criminal defense, corporate law, and estate and probate law.

What is the difference between Entry Level Paralegal vs Legal Assistant?

AspectEntry Level ParalegalLegal Assistant
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or paralegal certificateHigh school diploma or associate's degree, no certification required
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, courts
Job ResponsibilitiesLegal research, document preparation, case organizationAdministrative support, scheduling, client communication

While both roles support legal teams, Entry Level Paralegals typically handle more substantive legal work like research and document drafting, requiring specific paralegal credentials. Legal Assistants focus more on administrative tasks and may not need formal legal training. The roles often overlap, but the paralegal position generally involves more legal responsibilities and credentials.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level paralegals, and how can they be effectively managed?

Entry level paralegals often encounter challenges such as managing multiple deadlines, learning to navigate legal technology platforms, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law firm or legal department. To manage these issues, strong organizational skills and proactive communication with supervising attorneys are essential. Seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues and taking advantage of training opportunities can also help new paralegals build confidence and improve efficiency. Over time, familiarity with case management systems and legal procedures will make these challenges more manageable.

What is an entry level paralegal?

Entry level paralegals are professionals who assist attorneys with legal tasks such as drafting documents, conducting research, organizing files, and preparing for trials, typically at the beginning of their paralegal careers. They usually have completed a paralegal studies program or hold a relevant degree, but may have little to no prior legal work experience. Entry level paralegals gain on-the-job training and are often supervised closely by attorneys or senior paralegals as they learn the practical aspects of legal work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level paralegal?

To thrive as an Entry Level Paralegal, you need strong research, writing, and organizational skills, typically supported by a paralegal certificate or an associate degree in paralegal studies. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), document management systems, and Microsoft Office is often required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate legal support, efficient workflow, and effective collaboration within a law firm or legal department.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paralegal jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Paralegal jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Rhode Island?

For Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Entry Level Paralegal jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Entry Level Paralegal job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Paralegal jobs in RI?

For Entry Level Paralegal jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Paralegal job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 16% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,322 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Administrative Office Assistant

Partridge Snow and Hahn LLP

Providence, RI • On-site

$18.59 - $23.71/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
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.
Salary Description
$18.59 - $23.71