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

Entry Level Paralegal information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$30K

$44.2K

$62.3K

How much do entry level paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level paralegal in Springfield, MO is $44,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $48,900.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Paralegal jobs in Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Paralegal jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, MO? For Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Paralegal jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Entry Level Paralegal jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Entry Level Paralegal job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Paralegal job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,249 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Duties
- Receive inbound calls for the law firm from new prospective clients and schedule consultations with Attorney. Make notes for Attorney about prospective clients’ needs.
- Text and call prospective clients contacting law firm for legal services using Attorney’s marketing platforms.
- Screen prospective clients based on parameters provided by Attorney. This will involve briefly listening to clients’ stories to determine if our firm can help them with bankruptcy or other debt resolution services.
- Create a welcoming atmosphere with prospective clients on the phone and when prospects attend consultations whether on the phone or in person.
- Organize and maintain new appointment information in law firm's tracking system. Tract new client hires in similar system.
- Open client files in law firm’s client programs, currently Clio and Best Case bankruptcy software. Use attention to details as to entry of all client information.
- Communicate with clients as to standard documents needed for cases.
- Schedule and coordinate administrative meetings for attorney with clients.
- Manage calendars for paralegals and attorney tracking deadlines in cases.
- Prepare and send correspondence to clients.
- Ability to manage conflict with clients.

- other duties as assigned.
Experience
- 1 year previous experience as a legal receptionist or in a similar role is preferred.
-Customer service or working with the public in a service environment.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft office programs; Word, Excel, Outlook, PDF editor.
-Proficiency using office equipment, such as multifunction copier, postage machinery.
- Familiarity with legal terminology and procedures.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Knowledge of Best Case bankruptcy software is a plus.

If you have a passion for helping people in financial distress, our firm may be right for you. Easy-going law office with corporate casual dress dedicated to consumer and small business bankruptcy debtor representation. As a Legal Assistant/receptionist, you will play a crucial role in supporting our legal team. You will be responsible for assisting our attorney with various tasks related to case preparation, document management, and administrative duties. Your attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work efficiently will contribute to the success of our legal practice. We are one of Google's highest rated bankruptcy law firm in Southwest Missouri.
Please note that this is not an entry-level position. Previous experience as a legal assistant or in a similar role is preferred. Familiarity with legal terminology, document management systems, and project management principles will be beneficial in this role. However, for the right candidate, training is available in the specific area of bankruptcy law.
We offer competitive compensation based on experience. Additionally, we provide opportunities for professional growth and development within our firm.
If you are a motivated individual with a passion for law and possess the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply for this position.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
• Dental insurance
• Free parking
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
Schedule:
• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• No nights
• No weekends
• One hour lunch
Education:
• Associate (Required)
Experience:
• Law Office: 1 year (Preferred)
• Office: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person