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Paralegal Intern Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Real Estate Paralegal The Real Estate Paralegal supports sophisticated, high-value commercial transactions involving multiple properties, financing structures, and tight deadlines. Under the general ...

Policy Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

CDEL POLICY INTERN Description The Center for Disability & Elder Law (CDEL) provides free legal ... paralegals. CDEL staff and its volunteers provide legal representation in a wide range of civil ...

Policy Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

CDEL POLICY INTERN Description The Center for Disability & Elder Law (CDEL) provides free legal ... paralegals. CDEL staff and its volunteers provide legal representation in a wide range of civil ...

Paralegal Intern information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$33K

$70.2K

$106.8K

How much do paralegal intern jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for paralegal intern in Park Ridge, IL is $70,235.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $88,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paralegal intern?

Paralegal interns are students or recent graduates who work under the supervision of attorneys or experienced paralegals to gain practical experience in legal settings. Their duties often include conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing case files, and assisting with trial preparation. This internship provides valuable hands-on experience and helps interns develop a better understanding of legal procedures and the functioning of law offices. Paralegal internships can be found in law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, and nonprofit organizations.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can a paralegal intern expect during a typical week?

As a Paralegal Intern, you can expect to support attorneys and senior paralegals by conducting legal research, drafting documents such as memos and briefs, organizing files, and assisting in case preparation. You may also be responsible for managing case calendars, helping coordinate witness interviews, and attending client meetings or court proceedings for observation. The work environment is often collaborative, and you'll likely interact with legal teams, clients, and administrative staff, gaining valuable exposure to the legal profession.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a paralegal intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paralegal Intern, you need strong research, writing, and organizational skills, along with coursework or a certificate in paralegal studies. Familiarity with legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), Microsoft Office, and document management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure accuracy in legal work, efficient support for attorneys, and smooth adaptation to fast-paced legal environments.

What is the difference between Paralegal Intern vs Paralegal?

AspectParalegal InternParalegal
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed paralegal studiesAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in paralegal studies or related field, possibly certification
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often supervised, limited responsibilitiesFull-time or part-time professional role, handling substantive legal tasks
Employer & Industry UsageLegal firms, corporate legal departments, internships for experienceLegal firms, corporate legal teams, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Paralegal Intern and a Paralegal is experience and responsibility level. Interns are usually students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, while Paralegals are trained professionals handling substantive legal work. Internships serve as a stepping stone to a full Paralegal role, which requires more credentials and responsibilities.

How to get a paralegal intern role with no experience?

To secure a paralegal intern role with no experience, focus on gaining relevant skills through coursework, volunteering, or legal research projects. Highlight strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and familiarity with legal software or document management systems in your application and resume.

Is a paralegal internship worth it?

A paralegal internship provides practical experience in legal research, document preparation, and case management, which can enhance employability and skill development. It often offers networking opportunities and insight into legal environments, making it a valuable step for those pursuing a career as a paralegal or in related legal fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paralegal jobs in Park Ridge, IL?

The most popular types of Paralegal jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Paralegal Intern jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Paralegal Intern jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Paralegal Intern jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Paralegal Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Paralegal Intern job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Internship, 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,235 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

2026 Fall Paralegal Intern

Chicago, IL • On-site

Center For Disability & Elder Law
Legal Services • 11 - 50 employees

Internship

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Paralegal Hybrid Intern
The Center for Disability & Elder Law (CDEL) hosts Paralegal Interns each academic year. For Fall 2026, the Paralegal Intern will participate in a hybrid internship, which will include remote work and in-person work. CDEL will provide complete training and supervision of the student. Opportunities to participate may include participation in CDEL community clinics, workshops and help desks.
The internship is unpaid. CDEL works with schools offering externship credit and there may be funding options available for interns. CDEL will work with students and their advisors in setting up the internship.
Interns participate in various aspects of client files, including screening, intake and document review. In addition, assistance with CDEL's community clinics, workshops and help desks may be components of the internship. The student will gain experience in the following practice areas and develop the stated skills:
Practice Areas
Skills
Estate planning
Guardianship
Housing
Collections
Family Law
Interviewing candidates for service
Document drafting
Document review
Administrative matters
Students interested in Elder Law, Disability Law, Estate Planning, Public Interest and Housing law are specifically encouraged to apply.
CDEL is an equal opportunity employer. We are a welcoming community that engages, encourages and empowers those who are members of underrepresented communities. We are a dedicated advocate for our clients who hold many diverse identities and experiences, across race, color, sex, age, religion, class, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military discharge, source of income, housing status and gender identity. We believe that these communities must be centered in the work we do. Hence, we strongly encourage applications from people with these identities or who are members of other marginalized and underrepresented communities to apply for this position. We also encourage you to read our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement available on our website.
Applications are considered as they are received.