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Starting Paralegal Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Paralegal responsibilities include, but are not limited to: * Assist attorneys in discovery and pre ... Starting salary will be based on skills, background, and experience * High end of the range limited ...

Paralegal responsibilities include, but are not limited to: * Assist attorneys in discovery and pre ... Starting salary will be based on skills, background, and experience * High end of the range limited ...

Starting Paralegal information

See Michigan salary details

$28.8K

$52.1K

$77.6K

How much do starting paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for starting paralegal in Michigan is $52,061.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,800.00 and $59,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get started as a starting paralegal?

To start as a paralegal, obtain a relevant associate degree or paralegal certificate from an accredited program. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and developing skills in legal research, writing, and organization are essential steps to entering the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a starting paralegal?

To thrive as a Starting Paralegal, you need a solid understanding of legal terminology, research methods, and document preparation, usually supported by a paralegal certificate or associate degree. Familiarity with legal research databases (like Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and Microsoft Office is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organization, and effective written and verbal communication skills help you excel in supporting attorneys and managing caseloads. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and reliable support in a fast-paced legal environment.

What is the difference between Starting Paralegal vs Legal Assistant?

AspectStarting ParalegalLegal Assistant
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or paralegal certificateHigh school diploma or associate's degree
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, courts, legal departments
Job ResponsibilitiesLegal research, drafting documents, case preparationFiling, scheduling, client communication
Industry UsageCommonly used in legal settings with more advanced tasksMore administrative support role

Starting Paralegals typically have specialized legal training and handle more substantive legal work, while Legal Assistants focus on administrative tasks. Both roles are essential in legal environments, but Starting Paralegals often have greater responsibilities and require specific credentials.

How can I get a starting paralegal job with no experience?

Starting paralegals can improve their chances by obtaining relevant education such as a paralegal certificate or degree, gaining familiarity with legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and volunteering or interning to build practical experience. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of legal procedures are also valuable for entry-level positions.

What are some typical challenges a starting paralegal might face when adapting to a law firm's workflow?

As a starting paralegal, you may encounter challenges such as learning to manage multiple case files, adapting to the fast-paced environment, and understanding each attorney's preferences for document preparation and communication. Balancing deadlines and staying organized are crucial, as is becoming familiar with legal terminology and procedures specific to your practice area. Fortunately, most firms provide mentorship and training to help new paralegals adjust and develop the skills needed for long-term success.

What is a starting paralegal?

Starting paralegals are entry-level legal professionals who assist lawyers with tasks such as preparing documents, conducting legal research, and organizing case files. They usually work under the supervision of attorneys in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. Starting paralegals often have completed a paralegal studies program or hold a degree in a related field. Their role is crucial in supporting legal teams by handling administrative and procedural duties, allowing attorneys to focus on more complex legal work.

How hard is it to get a job as a starting paralegal?

Securing a starting paralegal position typically requires relevant education such as a paralegal certificate or associate degree, along with strong organizational and research skills. Competition can vary based on location and experience, but entry-level roles often look for candidates with basic legal knowledge and proficiency with legal software. Networking and internships can also improve chances of employment.

What are popular job titles related to Starting Paralegal jobs in Michigan?

For Starting Paralegal jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Starting Paralegal jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Starting Paralegal jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Starting Paralegal jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Starting Paralegal job openings:

Infographic showing various Starting Paralegal job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,061 per year, or $25 per hour.

Litigation Paralegal

State Farm

Southfield, MI • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


State Farm rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 1,553 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 308 rated insurance


Job description

Overview

Being good neighbors – helping people, investing in our communities, and making the world a better place – is who we are at State Farm. It is at the core of how we operate and the reason for our success. We're moving with urgency to become a Next Gen Good Neighbor, with technology that strengthens human connections and enhances the customer experience. As an employee, you'll spend less time navigating systems and more time applying judgment, empathy, and expertise in the moments that matter most.


Grow Your Skills, Grow Your Potential
Responsibilities

As a Fortune 50 company, we hire the best employees to serve our customers, making us a leader in the insurance and financial services industry. In 2024, the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity named State Farm a Top Performer and Compass Award Winner. Additionally, Fortune named State Farm one of the World’s Most Admired Companies. 

Our mission is to provide high quality legal services in a cost-effective manner and to act as strategic thinking partners for our client and customers. To succeed, we need self-starters who are agile, creative, collaborative, strategic, passionate, and communicative.

Rachel S. Croke & Associates, insurance staff counsel for State Farm Insurance Companies, is seeking a Litigation Paralegal to join the Detroit, Michigan Claim Litigation office. While every day can provide different experiences and opportunities, a Paralegal supports attorneys with drafting, serving, and responding to discovery, as well as trial preparation. The office allows for collaborative environments with experienced peer mentors. There are no billable hours in this opportunity. This role provides diversity of work and the opportunity for career development. This role will interact with clients, experts, and witnesses throughout the litigation process. The position is classified as a hybrid role, meaning that the work arrangement calls for hours in the office and virtually. Everyone in a hybrid role is required to spend time in the office.  Work arrangements could change over time based on business needs. Hours for the position are Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.  

LOCATION: 20750 Civic Center Drive Suite 400, Southfield, MI 48076-4132

The team is comprised of multiple roles and levels including Legal Administrative Support, Legal Secretary, and Paralegal.  

Paralegal responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Assist attorneys in discovery and pre-trial matters under attorney supervision
  • Assist attorneys in handling assigned case files and delivering other legal services under attorney supervision
  • Prepare cases for court appearances, depositions, and trial including contacting experts and clients
  • Involvement with medical record collection, medical record and billing summaries, and medical chronologies
  • Draft motions and pleadings

Qualifications

Please only apply for this position if you meet the minimum requirements. 

Previous experience required

  • 1-5 years of recent civil litigation experience, preferably insurance defense or personal injury
  • Prior paralegal experience, litigation
  • Background in drafting discovery responses, trial preparation, and drafting motions/pleadings
  • Familiarity with Michigan court rules and procedures
  • Experience reviewing medical records and preparing medical chronologies

Key skills required

  • Strong organizational skills, ability to work independently, prioritize workload, multi-task in a fast-paced environment, and communicate effectively
  • Strong written communication skills, attention to detail

Technology/software experience required

  • Strong software/technical skills
  • Experience using Evermap and/or Adobe Bookmarking
  • Working knowledge of a Case Management system
  • Working Knowledge of a Document Storage system

Education requirements including licensing and certifications

  • Prior litigation or paralegal experience, paralegal degree/certificate/certification, medical training, or relevant coursework or legal studies degree

Additional Details

  • Applicants are required to be eligible to lawfully work in the U.S. immediately. State Farm will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work opportunities.

Our Benefits

Because work-life balance is a priority at State Farm, compensation is based on our standard 38:45-hour work week!

  • Potential starting salary range: $68,200.00 -$78,881.00
    • Starting salary will be based on skills, background, and experience
    • High end of the range limited to applicants with significant relevant experience
  • Potential yearly incentive pay up to 15% of base salary

At State Farm, we offer more than just a paycheck. Check out our suite of benefits designed to give you the flexibility you need to take care of you and your family!

  • Get Paid! On top of our competitive pay, you are eligible for an annual raise and bonus.
  • Stay Well! Focus on you and your family’s health with our robust health and wellbeing programs. State Farm pays most of your healthcare premium, and we offer multiple healthcare plan options, including a high deductible plan. All medical plans provide 100% coverage for in-network preventative care, AND you and your family have access to vision, dental, telemedicine, 24/7 mental health professionals, and much more!
  • Develop and Grow! Take advantage of educational benefits like industry leading training programs, top-notch tuition assistance programs, employee resource groups, and mentoring.
  • Plan Ahead! Plan for those big moments in life with benefits like fertility/IVF/adoption assistance, college coaching, national discount programs, interactive monthly financial workshops, free financial coaching, and more. You can also start a savings account or consider financing through our State Farm Federal Credit Union!
  • Take a Little “You” Time! You will have access to our generous time off policies designed so you can plan around holidays, family events, volunteering, or just to take a relaxing day off. With the opportunity to initially earn up to 20 days annually plus parental leave, paid holidays, celebration day, life leave (40 hours/year), bereavement leave, and community service/education support days, there will be plenty of time for you!
  • Give Back! We offer several ways to give back through our Matching Gift Program, Good Neighbor Grant Program, and the Employee Assistance Fund.
  • Finish Strong! Plan for retirement using free financial advisors and a 401(k) plan with company contributions of up to 7% of your salary.

Visit our State Farm Careers page for more information on our benefits, locations, and the hiring process of joining the State Farm team!

IN22

Qualifications:

Please only apply for this position if you meet the minimum requirements. 

Previous experience required

  • 1-5 years of recent civil litigation experience, preferably insurance defense or personal injury
  • Prior paralegal experience, litigation
  • Background in drafting discovery responses, trial preparation, and drafting motions/pleadings
  • Familiarity with Michigan court rules and procedures
  • Experience reviewing medical records and preparing medical chronologies

Key skills required

  • Strong organizational skills, ability to work independently, prioritize workload, multi-task in a fast-paced environment, and communicate effectively
  • Strong written communication skills, attention to detail

Technology/software experience required

  • Strong software/technical skills
  • Experience using Evermap and/or Adobe Bookmarking
  • Working knowledge of a Case Management system
  • Working Knowledge of a Document Storage system

Education requirements including licensing and certifications

  • Prior litigation or paralegal experience, paralegal degree/certificate/certification, medical training, or relevant coursework or legal studies degree

Additional Details

  • Applicants are required to be eligible to lawfully work in the U.S. immediately. State Farm will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work opportunities.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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