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Legal Research Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL

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

Clinical Research Specialist

Springfield, IL · On-site

$22.05 - $33.08/hr

... and legal fees, transportation, and more! * Other benefits include: Wellness program with ... assist with certain administrative aspects of the recruitment process. These tools may help our ...

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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 7, 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 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.

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.

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. A bachelor's degree in a related field such as law, political science, or criminal justice is often required, and familiarity with legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis can be beneficial. Entry-level positions may be available to candidates demonstrating attention to detail and a willingness to learn on the job.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Legal Research Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,787 per year, or $23 per hour.

Assistant Corporation Counsel - Legal Research

City of Springfield, Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

City of Springfield
is seeking applicants for
Assistant Corporation Counsel - Legal Research

Department: Office of the Mayor
Division: Corporation Counsel
Work Location:
Municipal Center East, 800 East Monroe
Springfield, Illinois, 62701
United States
Work Hours: Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (hours may vary)
Starting Rate: $75,000.00
Eligibility Requirements: Open to All Applicants
Union: Non-Union Position
Final Date to Apply: 1/1/2027
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
Inthis role you will:
  • Advise Springfield City Council Members on an "on-call" basis. Areas of frequent advisement include officials and creation of ordinances and interpretation and application of statues and case law.
  • Represent the City and its employees in litigation. This work emphasizes motion practice, all pf discovery, expert witnesses, trains and appeals.
  • Assign duties to secretaries and paralegals as needed.
  • Perform periodic training to City Council Members in pertinent areas of law, i.e. Open Meetings Act, FOIA, etc.
  • Perform research and advise City departments on a variety of legal issues.

Required Qualifications:Theideal candidate will hold a Juris Doctorate degree and possess a valid licenseto practice law in the State of Illinois. They will demonstrate strong legalresearch, writing, and analytical abilities, along with sound professionaljudgment and a commitment to ethical public service. The ideal candidate willbe able to interpret and apply statutes, regulations, and case law; prepareclear and persuasive legal documents; and provide well-reasoned legal advice toagency staff and leadership. Strong communication skills, the ability to managemultiple assignments, and a collaborative working style are essential.Experience in government, administrative law, litigation, or regulatorycompliance is highly desirable. Preference for employment in all positionswith the city shall be given to applicants who are full-time city residents.
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
  • 13 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