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Entry Level Paralegal Jobs in Riverside, IL (NOW HIRING)

Watson Dwyer Inc.

Paralegal

Chicago, IL

$50/hr

This is a paralegal trainee job if you have a BA degree and an interest in a career in the world of ... This is an entry-level role. * Immediate hire. * Starting point for growth in our corporate ...

Watson Dwyer Inc.

Paralegal

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50/hr

This is a paralegal trainee job if you have a BA degree and an interest in a career in the world of ... This is an entry-level role. * Immediate hire. * Starting point for growth in our corporate ...

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Entry Level Paralegal information

See Riverside, IL salary details

$33.7K

$49.6K

$69.9K

How much do entry level paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level paralegal in Riverside, IL is $49,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,200.00 and $54,800.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Paralegal, and why are they important?

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 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 are entry level paralegals?

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 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.

More about Entry Level Paralegal jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Paralegal jobs in Riverside, IL? The most popular types of Paralegal jobs in Riverside, IL are:
What cities near Riverside, IL are hiring for Entry Level Paralegal jobs? Cities near Riverside, IL with the most Entry Level Paralegal job openings:
Entry Level Paralegal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Paralegal job openings in Riverside, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,611 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Paralegal

Paralegal

Watson Dwyer Inc.

Chicago, IL

$50/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

This is a paralegal trainee job if you have a BA degree and an interest in a career in the world of Law:
  • You will assist attorneys prepare for trials while also doing research and writing.
  • A political science-related degree is essential and any internship or prior summer experience in a law firm will qualify you.
  • Lots of deadlines and calendar management in this busy role.
  • Ideal candidate has knowledge of politics and is aware of the legal process.
  • We offer excellent salary and benefits and growth opportunities.
  • This is an entry-level role.
  • Immediate hire.
  • Starting point for growth in our corporate litigation firm.
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About Watson Dwyer

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Watson Dwyer, established in 1990, is a privately owned staffing firm and Women Business Enterprise. We represent the best companies and employees in Chicago and around the country. With a reputation as a leader in the staffing industry, we are dedicated to providing complete staffing solutions in: Accounting, Administration, Finance, I.T., Legal, Marketing, Human Resources, Public Relations, Sales, and more.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1990

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