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

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Entry Level Paralegal information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$33.2K

$48.9K

$68.9K

How much do entry level paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level paralegal in Springfield, IL is $48,904.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $54,000.00 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 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 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.
More about Entry Level Paralegal jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Paralegal jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Paralegal jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, IL? For Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Paralegal jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Entry Level Paralegal job openings:
Entry Level Paralegal jobs near you
Paralegal II, Medicaid Fraud, 26-14, Chi

Paralegal II, Medicaid Fraud, 26-14, Chi

Illinois Attorney General

Springfield, IL • On-site

$57K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary : $57,192.00 - $70,128.00 Annually
Location : Chicago, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-14
Administration: Deputy Chief - Administration
Bureau: Medicaid Fraud
Opening Date: 03/24/2026
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities
Provides paraprofessional support and enhances attorney effectiveness by providing information; independently conducting extensive research, investigations, and compliance reviews; and preparing in-depth legal documents at the direction of an attorney. Obtains information by contacting witnesses, attorneys, claimants, and others; developing questions; reviewing files and documents; and conducting legal and factual research. Provides information by answering questions and requests; serving as a resource in areas of general and/or specialized knowledge; attending meetings; assisting in preparation of public education materials. Prepares reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information, using independent judgement in the analysis, preparation and summarization of legal documents and/or pleadings. Provides support to attorneys by preparing case docket; coordinating preparation of reports; analyzing data; identifying solutions; identifying deficiencies; explaining remedies through correspondence and written instruction; clarifying customer complaints; expediting correction or adjustment; following up to ensure resolution; reviewing additional submissions or materials for completion; preparing exhibits; preparing subpoenas; preparing witnesses for testimony; preparing trial briefs and other legal memos; preparing motions; preparing jury instructions; and preparing summons and complaints. Complies with federal/state/local legal requirements by reviewing and evaluating documentation, contracts, and financial statements; enforcing adherence to requirements; and studying existing and new legislation/rules. Provides recommendations by reviewing and evaluating applications; analyzing programs and services; verifying documentation; studying performance requirements; analyzing and evaluating evidence; keeping abreast of trends; and maintaining historical context. Processes claims/registrations by reviewing data for deficiencies; resolving discrepancies by using standard procedures or returning incomplete documents to team leader for resolution. Completes research projects by establishing project objective; designing and developing mathematical, statistical, and other models; determining data collection methods; directing the collection of data; synthesizing data; interpreting results. Maintains customer confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential. Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending workshops and educational seminars; reviewing appropriate publications. Trains and/or assists in the training of other paralegals; accomplishing related results in a cooperative and collaborative manner.
Qualifications
Requires at least an Associate Degree (Bachelor Degree preferred) in business law or legal studies, or related field, or completion of an A.B.A. approved paralegal training program and three (3) years of paralegal experience and must have served satisfactorily as a paralegal in the OAG for at least two (2) years or an equivalent combination of training education and experience. Lexis and Internet research skills preferred. Familiarity with law library resources essential. Ability to communicate effectively; excellent verbal and written skills required; evaluate and interpret contracts, financial statements, and other complex documentation; and work within budgetary constraints needed. Minimal typing may be required. Word Processing skills required. Attendance is an essential function of this position. Ability to maintain satisfactory working relationships with other employees and the general public required.
Supplemental Information
Position requires in-office attendance
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
Part-time employees who work an average of 20 hours per week over the course of a year, receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.
As an employee of the Illinois Attorney General's Office, you'll have access to many great benefits. Join the legal team responsible for protecting the public interest of the state and the people of Illinois!
  • Health and Dental insurance along with free Vision insurance*
  • Pension Benefits through the State Employees'; Retirement System
  • Deferred Compensation: supplemental retirement savings program-457k
  • Commuter Savings Program: pre-tax transportation program
  • Flexible Spending: Medical and Dependent pre-tax savings program
  • Life insurance benefit: free with option to purchase additional (up to 8 x your annual salary) at low cost. Spouse and child life insurance available
  • Disability coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program through ComPsych
  • Holidays: 13 1/2 paid
  • Vacation days: minimum of 12 days, maximum of 27 days, prorated
  • Personal days: 4 annually
  • Floating Holiday: 1 annually
  • Sick days: 1 per month
  • For attorneys, office provided Continuing Legal Education
  • Semi-monthly payroll

*Health and Dental cost ranges: for single: $131.00 - $314.00 monthly; for family: $299.00 - $653.00 monthly
For more information on benefits:

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