2

Entry Level Paralegal Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

This is not an entry-level legal assistant position. Candidates must have prior experience ... paralegals with litigation support and trial preparation * Ensure compliance with litigation ...

Entry Level Paralegal information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$38.1K

$56.2K

$79.1K

How much do entry level paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level paralegal in Seattle, WA is $56,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $62,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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?

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 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.

Can you be an entry level paralegal with no legal experience?

Entry level paralegals often do not require prior legal experience, as they typically receive on-the-job training and may have a relevant associate's degree or certification. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with legal software can help candidates qualify for these roles without previous legal work experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paralegal jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Paralegal jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Entry Level Paralegal jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Entry Level Paralegal job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Paralegal job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,185 per year, or $27 per hour.

Immigration Paralegal Assistant

Perkins Coie LLP

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Description:
GENERAL PURPOSE
Under supervision, assist paralegals, lawyers, and clients with a variety of entry-level paralegal duties. Maintain positive contact with clients and observe confidentiality.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
These essential functions are primary job duties that incumbents must be able to perform unassisted or with some reasonable accommodation.
  • Assist with filings with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), and U.S. Department of State (DOS).
  • Assemble complex immigration petitions and ready them for submission (will require learning many varieties of petitions).
  • Assemble Public Access Files.
  • Conduct factual research and analysis.
  • Create and maintain up-to-date electronic and hard copy records.
  • Prepare initial draft correspondence to clients and agencies.
  • Prepare letters transmitting USCIS and DOL notices.
  • Take ownership of USCIS and DOL notices, and track and log case information into the appropriate docket, WIP log, and/or case management software. Update and distribute notices to the team.
  • Run reports using case management software for team tracking case expiration deadlines, need for extensions, and/or other filings.
  • Maintain positive contact with attorneys and paralegals and observe confidentiality of client matters.
  • Provide excellent client service.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Be present at work during regularly scheduled working hours and as needed in the position, consistent with the firm's attendance expectations.

SPECIFIC SKILLS REQUIRED
  • Attention to detail a must.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with firm lawyers and staff, client personnel, and other professionals.
  • Ability to handle multiple assignments, work well under pressure, and have flexibility to assist team in meeting client demands on accelerated schedules.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Requires a high school diploma and a minimum of one year of related experience as a paralegal assistant or in a legal administrative support role in a relevant field.
  • Associate or bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Paralegal Certificate a plus.
  • Familiarity with commonly used programs such as Outlook, Excel, and OneNote a plus.

At Ashurst Perkins Coie, we look for self-motivated individuals dedicated to providing value and superior service and who have a high degree of integrity and enthusiasm for their work. We have created a company culture based on collaboration, devotion to serving our clients, and mutual respect. Ashurst Perkins Coie is committed to advancing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity both within the firm and throughout our collective communities. Work for a dynamic, growing organization with great benefits and growth opportunities.
This position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) plan, medical, dental, and vision insurance, accrued paid time off plan starting at 20 days annually, personal medical and parental leave, up to ten paid holidays, and family care benefits. More information regarding benefits and programs may be found here.
This position may be filled in the following location(s). The listed compensation range reflects the typical pay for this role, though it is rare for new hires to receive an offer at the top of the range. Actual compensation may vary depending on experience, skills, market conditions, and internal equity.
Washington State compensation range: $ 50,850.00 to $ 72,370.00 annually
This job is onsite.