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Starting Paralegal Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

All JobsStarting Paralegal JobsStarting Paralegal Jobs in Springfield, IL

Starting Paralegal information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$32.7K

$59.2K

$88.2K

How much do starting paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for starting paralegal in Springfield, IL is $59,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $67,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get a paralegal job with no experience?

Starting paralegals can improve their chances by gaining relevant skills through paralegal certificate programs or legal internships, which provide practical experience and networking opportunities. Highlighting strong organizational, research, and communication skills on your resume can also help compensate for lack of formal experience. Entry-level positions often require a willingness to learn and adapt to legal environments.

How to start off as a paralegal?

Starting as a paralegal typically involves obtaining a relevant education, such as an associate degree or paralegal certificate, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of legal procedures, and proficiency with legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis are also important for entry into the field.

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

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.

Can paralegals make $100,000?

Starting paralegals typically do not earn $100,000 annually, but experienced paralegals with specialized skills, certifications, or working in high-cost-of-living areas can reach or exceed that salary level. Advancement opportunities, such as becoming senior paralegals or legal managers, can also lead to higher compensation.

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 are starting paralegals?

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.

Will AI replace paralegals?

AI technology can automate certain tasks performed by paralegals, such as document review and legal research, increasing efficiency. However, paralegals provide critical support through tasks that require judgment, communication, and understanding of legal context, which are less likely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future.
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Starting Paralegal jobs near you
Paralegal/Legal Assistant/Legal Secretary (Springfield, IL)

Paralegal/Legal Assistant/Legal Secretary (Springfield, IL)

Stange Law Firm

Springfield, IL

$16.82 - $21/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 hours ago

Job description

Are you a legal professional with a passion for Family Law. Stange Law Firm, PC is accepting resumes only for a dynamic, highly motivated Full-Time Paralegal/Legal Assistant/Legal Secretary to join our team in our Springfield, Illinois location in Sangamon County. Whether someone is facing a divorce, legal separation, paternity action, estate planning or numerous other issues that affect families, the attorneys at Stange Law Firm, PC are dedicated to achieving the best possible results.

Why join Stange Law Firm. Competitive Pay. (Salary is BOE: $16.82 to $21 an hour) Productivity Bonuses 401 (k) & Employer Matching Roth IRA 95-99% Employer Paid Health Insurance Medical Plan for Employees Depending On State, Plus Buy-Up Options

Health Saving Account Options Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Eligible employees may elect insurance coverage for Accidental, Critical Illness, Short Term Disability, and Term to Age 100 Life. Paid Time Off (Accrued Vacation, 5 Paid Sick Days & 3 Personal Days) 9 Paid Holidays Take Birthday as Paid Leave (Full-Time Employees) 24 Work-From-Home-Days (For Senior Paralegal/Legal Assistants who have worked for the firm more than 1 year). Company paid laptop Fast growing Family Law Firm - 2nd Largest Family Law Firm in the country.

Advancement and job growth potential Promotes from within Excellent Reputation More. Responsibilities Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to: In lieu of a receptionist, shall greet all clients and take accurate messages (with the proper return phone number and name of the person calling) when individuals are not available, receives deliveries by courier or messenger, and received and sends faxes Prepares and drafts legal documents for filing with appropriate entities and necessary correspondence Shall ensure the accuracy of all documents prepared Performs administrative duties including basic research, filing, mailings, organizes files and pleading panels, calendaring telephone communication Conducts legal research for particular issues as assigned by attorneys using periodicals, law library, public records, and offices Takes messages when individuals are not available, receives deliveries by courier or messenger, and receives and sends faxes Makes copies Enter all billable hours completed on a given day into the designated timekeeping or billing software the same day Performs any other reasonable task requested by the Firm Management Team Qualifications Our Ideal Candidate will possess the following: Law firm experience preferred Domestic experience preferred Familiarity with PC programs Strong computer skills Strong written and oral communication skills The ability to work in a fast-paced environment Senior Paralegal / Legal Assistant positions available for paralegals with prior family law or litigation experience Company Description Stange Law Firm, PC is a multi-state family law firm. LawFirm500 ranks Stange Law Firm as one of the fastest-growing law firms in the country.

Attorneys at the firm have received awards from organizations such as Super Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers, the National Academy of Family Lawyers, and many more. Attorneys at the firm also speak at Continuing Legal Education Seminars for organizations such as the Missouri Bar, National Business Institute, MyLawCLE, and many more. This is truly a great opportunity if you want a successful career in family law.

For more information, please visit www.stangelawfirm.com. E-mail your resume and references to the Recruiting Director. Watch the following video to learn more about starting a career with Stange Law Firm: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJMiDiwD-8E Additional Details: Office Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday-Friday

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. State: Illinois This is a full time position.

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