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Legal Research Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL

Cassiday Schade LLP

Associate Attorney

Springfield, IL · On-site

... legal research; · take and defend depositions; · review client documents, draft case evaluations and prepare status report correspondence; · assist with and participate in mediations, pretrial ...

Stange Law Firm

Attorney/Lawyer

Springfield, IL · On-site +1

$90K - $120K/yr

Legal research, analysis, and persuasive writing * Evidence and examination of witnesses ... Attorneys are supported by experienced paralegals and legal assistants, along with established ...

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All JobsLegal Research JobsLegal Research Assistant JobsLegal Research Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL

Legal Research Assistant information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$26.8K

$47.8K

$73.3K

How much do legal research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for legal research assistant in Springfield, IL is $47,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $54,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a legal research assistant?

Legal Research Assistants are professionals who support lawyers, judges, or legal teams by conducting research on laws, legal precedents, case law, regulations, and other relevant materials. They help prepare legal documents, briefs, and memos, ensuring that attorneys have the information they need for cases or legal arguments. Their work is crucial for building strong legal cases and staying updated on recent legal developments. Legal Research Assistants typically work in law firms, government agencies, or academic settings and may have backgrounds in law or paralegal studies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a legal research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Legal Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of legal principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in law or a related field. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office, is often required. Excellent written communication, time management, and organizational skills help you present findings clearly and manage multiple tasks efficiently. These abilities ensure accurate, thorough research and support attorneys in building effective legal arguments and case strategies.

What are some common challenges faced by legal research assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Legal Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, handling large volumes of complex information, and ensuring the accuracy of citations and legal documents. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, become proficient with legal research databases, and communicate regularly with supervising attorneys to clarify expectations. Being detail-oriented and proactive in seeking feedback can also help mitigate errors and improve work quality.

What is the difference between Legal Research Assistant vs Paralegal?

AspectLegal Research AssistantParalegal
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or paralegal certificate; strong research skillsAssociate's degree or paralegal certificate; broader legal support skills
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, legal departments, research institutionsLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageLegal research, fact-finding, supporting attorneysDrafting documents, case management, client communication
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research-focused legal rolesLegal support roles with broader responsibilities

Legal Research Assistants primarily focus on conducting legal research and supporting attorneys with case facts. Paralegals perform a wider range of legal tasks, including document preparation and client interaction. While both roles require similar credentials and work in legal environments, their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How to become a Legal Research Assistant with no experience?

To become a Legal Research Assistant with no experience, focus on developing strong research, writing, and analytical skills through online courses or internships. Gaining familiarity with legal databases like LexisNexis or Westlaw and earning a paralegal certification can improve your qualifications for entry-level positions.

What are popular job titles related to Legal Research Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL?

For Legal Research Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Legal Research Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Legal Research Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Legal Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Legal Research Assistant job openings:

Legal Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Legal Research Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL 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 $47,787 per year, or $23 per hour.

Assistant Corporation Counsel - Police Legal Advisor

Springfield, IL • On-site

City of Springfield, Illinois
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about City of Springfield, Illinoisexternal

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

City of Springfield
is seeking applicants for
Assistant Corporation Counsel - Police Legal Advisor
Department: Office of the Mayor
Division: Corporation Counsel
Work Location:
Municipal Center East
SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, 62701
United States
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Starting Rate: $75,000.00
Eligibility Requirements: Open to All Applicants
Union: Non-Union Position
Final Date to Apply: 1/1/2027 at 5:59 PM
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
In this role you will:
  • Provide on-call legal counsel to Springfield Police Department staff and officers on statutory and case law interpretation, information access and confidentiality, arrest/search and seizure, personnel and disciplinary matters (including investigation review), policy updates, and responses to subpoenas and FOIA requests.
  • Represent the City and its employees in federal litigation, primarily defending police practices and employment-related claims, with emphasis on motions, discovery, experts, trials, and appeals. Also handle additional litigation and legal matters, including ordinance drafting, as assigned by the Corporation Counsel.
  • Meet with City officials, employees, witnesses, doctors, expert witnesses, etc. in preparation of discovery/trials.
  • Assign duties to secretaries and paralegals for preparation of correspondence, notices, pleadings, depositions, research, etc.

Required Qualifications:The ideal candidate will hold a Juris Doctorate degreeand possess a valid license to practice law in the State of Illinois. They willdemonstrate strong legal research, writing, and analytical abilities, alongwith sound professional judgment and a commitment to ethical public service.The ideal candidate will be able to interpret and apply statutes, regulations,and case law; prepare clear and persuasive legal documents; and providewell-reasoned legal advice to agency staff and leadership. Strong communicationskills, the ability to manage multiple assignments, and a collaborative workingstyle are essential. Experience in government, administrative law, litigation,or regulatory compliance is highly desirable.
Preference for employment in all positions with the city shall be given to applicants who are full-time city residents.
Benefits:
  • Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • Free Health Clinic
  • Pension Plan
  • Deferred Compensation
  • 4 weeks paid parental leave
  • 14 paid holidays
  • 10-25 paid vacation days, based on years of service
  • 12 paid sick days annually
  • Tuition Reimbursement

If assistance in applying is required, please notify the Office of Human Resources at 217-789-2446 or humanresources@springfield.il.us

Apply