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Entry Level Paralegal

What Is an Entry Level Paralegal and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team
Entry Level Paralegal

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What Does an Entry Level Paralegal Do?

An entry-level paralegal performs research and provides legal support to attorneys. As an entry-level paralegal, your job is to assist one or more attorneys at your firm with a variety of legal research and administrative tasks. You prepare and file legal documents, handle communication with clients, and study statutes and precedents in the law. If the attorneys at the law firm you work for specialize in a particular area of the law, then you must familiarize yourself with the specifics of that legal subspecialty, such as personal injury, family law, criminal defense, corporate law, and estate and probate law.

How to Become an Entry Level Paralegal

An Entry Level Paralegal can begin their career with little professional experience, though you should pursue some formal education. There are several options for paralegal studies degrees, including certificates, associate degrees, and a full bachelor’s degree. Many Entry Level Paralegals become attorneys themselves; if that’s a goal, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree, which is typically required for law school admission. Once you’ve graduated from your paralegal studies program, seek entry-level positions within a law firm to build your legal jargon and familiarity with the office workflow. You should demonstrate excellent communication and writing skills with your colleagues and clients. Entry Level Paralegals perform many of the administrative tasks, though you’ll have more opportunities to work directly with attorneys as you advance in your career.

How to Get an Entry Level Paralegal Job With No Experience

A paralegal researches data, files motions, and conducts pre-trial client interviews. To get a paralegal job with no experience, complete a paralegal studies program approved by the American Bar Association. Seek advice from a law professional and join a networking association to gain professional contacts in the law field. Consider joining a law firm as a legal secretary to learn basic law terms and practices, then apply for a paralegal role within the firm.

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