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Legal Researcher Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Legal Assistant

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$25K - $30K/yr

Conduct research to support legal proceedings * Assist with the drafting and reviewing of legal documents * Investigate facts to help in the negotiation of legal disputes * Monitor and ensure ...

Researcher

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$113K - $170K/yr

Performs substantive legal and non-legal research using online and print information to support local and global practices. * Provides competitive intelligence and background research on current or ...

Researcher

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$113K - $170K/yr

Performs substantive legal and non-legal research using online and print information to support local and global practices. * Provides competitive intelligence and background research on current or ...

Legal Research & Analysis: * Conduct legal research across multiple practice areas and prepare memoranda with findings and recommendations * Draft internal guidance documents on legal standards ...

Legal Affairs Intern

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The Legal Affairs Intern will assist with legal research, regulatory tracking, preparing summaries and reports, supporting department projects, etc. The Legal Affairs intern reports to the VP, ...

Familiarity with Westlaw or similar legal research platforms * Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) * Strong organizational, writing, communication, and proofreading skills

Legal Assistant

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Conduct legal research and draft legal documents under attorney supervision * Assist in case preparation across practice areas * Manage and organize case files and legal documentation using document ...

Legal Assistant

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Conduct legal research and draft legal documents under attorney supervision * Assist in case preparation across practice areas * Manage and organize case files and legal documentation using document ...

Legal Assistant

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Conduct legal research and draft legal documents under attorney supervision * Assist in case preparation across practice areas * Manage and organize case files and legal documentation using document ...

Draft research summaries, policy documents, memoranda, and other legal materials. * Support legislative and regulatory monitoring efforts by tracking proposed state actions and preparing briefing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Legal Researcher information

See Washington salary details

$86.6K

$157.9K

$254.8K

How much do legal researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for legal researcher in Washington is $157,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,500.00 and $181,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a legal researcher?

Legal researchers are professionals who investigate and analyze laws, legal precedents, regulations, and case law to support attorneys, judges, and legal scholars. They gather relevant information and provide detailed reports or memos that help legal teams build cases, draft legal documents, or understand complex legal issues. Legal researchers may work in law firms, government agencies, academic institutions, or corporate legal departments. Their work is critical for ensuring that legal arguments are well-founded and up-to-date with current laws and court decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a legal researcher?

To thrive as a Legal Researcher, you need a strong understanding of legal principles, excellent analytical skills, and typically a law degree or relevant legal training. Familiarity with legal databases such as Westlaw, LexisNexis, and citation management systems is vital for efficient research. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear written communication are essential soft skills for interpreting complex information and presenting findings. These skills ensure that research is accurate, comprehensive, and effectively supports legal arguments or decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by legal researchers and how can they be effectively managed?

Legal Researchers often encounter challenges such as navigating vast volumes of information, ensuring the accuracy and relevance of legal sources, and keeping up with frequently changing laws and regulations. Effective management of these challenges involves developing strong organizational skills, utilizing reputable legal databases, and maintaining open communication with attorneys and other team members for guidance and clarification. Additionally, staying updated through continuous education and attending legal seminars can help you remain current in the field.

Can you do legal research without a law degree?

Legal researchers can perform many tasks related to legal research without a law degree, especially if they have strong research skills and knowledge of legal databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis. However, some roles, particularly those involving legal advising or court representation, typically require a law degree and bar admission. Many legal research positions focus on supporting attorneys and do not require a law degree themselves.

How do you become a legal researcher?

To become a legal researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in law, political science, or a related field is required, followed by gaining experience in legal research through internships or entry-level positions. Strong analytical skills, proficiency with legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and knowledge of legal terminology are essential for success in this role.

Is legal research a good career?

Legal research is a valuable career that involves analyzing laws, regulations, and legal precedents to support legal cases and decisions. It requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with legal databases and tools. The profession offers opportunities for specialization and advancement within the legal field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Legal Researcher jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Legal Researcher jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Legal Researcher jobs in Washington?

For Legal Researcher jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Legal Researcher jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Legal Researcher jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Legal Researcher jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Legal Researcher job openings:

Infographic showing various Legal Researcher job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $157,934 per year, or $75.9 per hour.

Senior Legal Research Analyst

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

Paul Hastings
Law Firmsย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Paul Hastings is a leading international law firm that provides innovative legal solutions to many of the world's top financial institutions and Fortune Global 500 companies. With a strong presence throughout the U.S., Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, we have the global reach and extensive capabilities to provide personalized service wherever our clients' needs take us. As one of the world's leading law firms, we seek dynamic individuals who share our commitment to service, innovation, and professional growth.

Job TitleSenior Legal Research AnalystLocationAtlanta, Boston, Century City, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Orange County, Palo Alto, San Diego, San Francisco, Washington, D.C.Regular/TemporaryRegularJob Description SummaryThe Senior Legal Research Analyst provides legal and business research and reference assistance to the Attorneys and Staff, and reports to the Manager, Research/Senior Manager Research/Director, Research.Job Description

In this capacity, the Senior Legal Research Analyst will:

  • Train and mentor junior researchers;
  • Under the direction of the Manager, Research, lead and manage long-term legal research projects, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality work while maintaining a professional, organized, and detail-oriented approach;
  • Work with Manager, Research to develop and provide internal training related to research skills, research platforms, and skills related to Generative AI prompting;
  • Provide reference, research and support to other Legal Research Analysts, Attorneys, and Staff in a timely and efficient manner. Where applicable, provides in-depth analysis and summarization of results. Bills time to client/matters as appropriate;
  • Provide consultative research and reference support advising lawyers on the optimal strategy and source selection to obtain most authoritative and cost-effective results. Bills time to client/matters as appropriate;
  • Perform in-depth legal, corporate, financial and/or general research for lawyers, staff, and clients by utilizing the appropriate mix of the firm's wide range of external and internal legal, business, and news resources
  • Collaborate as necessary with other members of the Practice Management Department and the Practice Innovation & Legal Solutions Department on projects and with the Firm's other departments and teams;
  • Assist in the dissemination and organization of information obtained in print and electronic resources/databases;
  • Presents and packages research findings clearly and concisely;
  • Monitor daily news, legislative and regulatory developments as required;
  • Deliver research training to attorneys and staff and assist in the development of new research and reference offerings;
  • Stay abreast of latest research resources, technologies and search techniques. Keep department leadership informed of potential additions and/or enhancements to research services;
  • Participate in team initiatives to promote research resources, tools, and services;
  • Work beyond scheduled hours as required; and
  • Handle additional related projects as assigned.

Proficiencies:

  • Expert-level knowledge in English language skills, including punctuation, spelling, grammar, and writing skills;
  • Mastery in Lexis, Westlaw, Bloomberg and a wide range of other standard and specialized legal and business research platforms;
  • Demonstrated expertise in generative AI prompting and a strong understanding of AI tools and technologies, with the ability to develop effective prompts and leverage generative AI to enhance legal research, analysis, and workflow efficiency while maintaining accuracy, confidentiality, and professional judgment;
  • Expert proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word, Adobe Acrobat and other common legal systems; the ability to quickly learn and apply new technologies and workflows; and the ability to type 60 WPM;
  • Exceptional command of verbal and written communication, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences; superior interpersonal acumen and a demonstrated commitment to producing precise, high-caliber work product; proven ability to deliver an elevated standard of client service that anticipates needs and exceeds expectations; advanced proficiency in office operations, administrative protocols, and professional communication standards;
  • Motivated and proactive individuals with the ability to work on a collaborative, service-oriented team; and to work independently, initiating and carrying projects through to completion;
  • Mastery-level organizational skills, with a demonstrated capacity to design and optimize complex workflows, manage competing priorities with strategic precision, and maintain impeccable attention to detail under demanding timelines;
  • Fundamental knowledge of legal and business research resources employed by global law firms (preferred);
  • Proficient in online research and legal databases; and
  • Knowledge of database structure and theory.

Qualifications:

  • At least 5+ years of experience providing reference and research, preferably in a law or business library; and
  • Advanced degree (MLS, MLIS) in library science, library information science or related field (required); JD a plus.

The salary wage range for Boston that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $101,500 and a maximum of $130,000 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

The salary wage range for Palo Alto that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $101,500 and a maximum of $130,000 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

The salary wage range for San Francisco that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $101,500 and a maximum of $130,000 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

The salary wage range for Washington, DC that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $95,300 and a maximum of $123,800 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

The salary wage range for Los Angeles that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $95,300 and a maximum of $123,800 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

The salary wage range for Orange County that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $95,300 and a maximum of $123,800 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

The salary wage range for San Diego that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $91,200 and a maximum of $118,400 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

The salary wage range for New York that we expect to pay for this position is a minimum of $101,500 and a maximum of $130,000 annually. The actual pay wage may vary based on experience or other relevant factors.

Employees will be provided with an excellent career opportunity in a collaborative environment, in addition to a generous total compensation package with the opportunity to earn bonuses based on individual contribution and firm profitability.

The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job. This role is exempt meaning it is not overtime pay eligible.

Eligible employees can participate in the Firm's comprehensive benefits program, which include the following:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life/AD&D, Long Term Care, and Short- and Long-Term Disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Account

  • Healthcare Concierge and Advocacy

  • Lifestyle Spending Account

  • Voluntary 401(k) Plan and Profit Sharing

  • 10 Paid Holidays per year and a generous PTO Program

  • Family Support including Paid Parental Leave, Fertility Benefits, Breast Milk Shipping, Back-up Child Care, Elder Care, and Tutoring

  • Wellbeing programs (Employee Assistance Program, Relationship Support, Mental Health, Menopause and Midlife Health and Well-Being Events)

  • Retirement Plan Consulting

  • Anniversary Bonus Program

  • Professional Development Programs

  • Transportation and Commuter Benefits

  • International Travel Insurance

  • Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity and Accident Insurance

  • Auto/Home/Pet Insurance

  • Prepaid Legal Insurance

  • Employee Discounts

  • And More!

The Firm fosters an open and inclusive work environment that enables us to provide clients with the innovative thinking of teams rich in talent, experience and creativity. We regularly host programs intended to increase cultural competencies and address key topics related to community, opportunity and inclusion. Learn more about our Global Inclusion initiatives here: Global Inclusion

Paul Hastings is an equal opportunity employer. Pursuant to applicable local law, we will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the relevant fair chance ordinance. With respect to candidates for employment in Massachusetts, it is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. Although Paul Hastings does not use a lie detector test in its typical application process, an employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.