📅 2026 Update: Changes in Paralegal Careers and Local Law Research

Since the original article was published, there have been notable changes in paralegal salaries, employment projections, and the demand for specific skills. This update highlights these key developments, focusing on what they mean for those interested in paralegal careers and legal research. You can read the earlier article further down this page for foundational information.

📈 Paralegal Salaries

The median annual salary for paralegals and legal assistants increased to $62,890 in May 2025, with a mean annual wage reaching $69,700. This marks an upward trend from previous years, reflecting the growing importance of paralegals in the legal field. Entry-level positions typically start around $39,710, while experienced paralegals can earn over $98,990.

🔍 E-Discovery Skills Demand

A significant 74% of employers report challenges in finding paralegals with strong e-discovery and legal research skills. This highlights the need for paralegals to become proficient in e-discovery platforms such as Relativity, Everlaw, and DISCO. These skills are increasingly important in today’s digital legal landscape.

📉 Employment Projections

Looking ahead, employment of paralegals and legal assistants is expected to show little or no change from 2025 to 2035. However, about 40,800 openings for paralegals are projected each year on average, providing opportunities for those entering the field.

📚 Educational Pathways

Most employers prefer candidates with an associate’s degree or certificate in paralegal studies, especially those from programs accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). This accreditation is a strong indicator of quality in paralegal education.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • The median annual salary for paralegals rose to $62,890.
  • 74% of employers struggle to find paralegals with e-discovery skills.
  • Employment growth for paralegals is projected to remain flat through 2035.
  • A paralegal education from an ABA-accredited program is preferred by many employers.
  • 40,800 job openings for paralegals are expected each year on average.

💡 Tips for Aspiring Paralegals

Review your specific situation with your attorney.

🎓 Pursue an Accredited Education

Completing a paralegal education program that is accredited by the ABA can significantly enhance your job prospects. Employers often look for this accreditation when evaluating candidates.

🖥️ Develop E-Discovery Skills

Given the high demand for e-discovery skills, consider taking courses or training in relevant software. Mastering tools like Relativity or Logikcull can set you apart in the job market.

📋 Gain Practical Experience

Seek internships or entry-level positions to gain hands-on experience. Practical knowledge is vital for understanding the duties of a paralegal and can make you more attractive to potential employers.

📖 Understand Legal Research

Familiarize yourself with the terminology and categories of legal research. Being able to conduct effective legal research is essential for a successful paralegal career.

🏛️ Explore Specialization Options

Consider specializing in areas like litigation or corporate law. Specialization can increase your employability and allow you to focus on areas of interest.

🔍 Stay Informed About Job Openings

Keep an eye on job boards and legal publications for new openings in the paralegal field. Networking within the legal community can also uncover opportunities.

🏆 Free Options Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section focuses on free government and nonprofit resources available for those interested in paralegal careers and legal research. No national paid service met the review threshold for inclusion here.

🥇 1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

The BLS provides comprehensive information on paralegal careers, including job duties, education requirements, and salary data. This resource is beneficial for anyone exploring a career in paralegal work.

🥈 2. National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)

NALA offers resources and guidance for paralegals seeking certification. Their website includes information on certification processes and continuing education opportunities.

🥉 3. National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)

NFPA provides resources for paralegals, including networking opportunities and educational materials. Their focus is on advancing the paralegal profession and supporting paralegals in their careers.

4️⃣ State Bar Associations

Many state bar associations offer resources for paralegals, including job listings, training programs, and networking events. These associations can help paralegals connect with others in the field.

🔎 What to Check Before Paying for Help

  • 🏢 Verify the organization's credentials.
  • 📅 Check for transparent pricing and fees.
  • 📜 Review user testimonials and experiences.
  • ⚖️ Ensure they provide up-to-date information on legal careers.
  • 🔍 Confirm the resources align with your career goals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What is the average salary for paralegals in 2026?

The median annual salary for paralegals was $62,890 in May 2025, with a mean annual wage of $69,700.

📈 What is the job outlook for paralegals through 2035?

Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is expected to remain stable, with little or no change projected from 2025 to 2035.

📚 What education is required to become a paralegal?

To enter the occupation, paralegals typically need an associate’s degree or certificate in paralegal studies. Many employers prefer candidates from ABA-accredited programs.

🖥️ Why are e-discovery skills important for paralegals?

With 74% of employers struggling to find candidates with e-discovery skills, proficiency in these areas is increasingly valuable in the legal profession.

🏛️ How can I gain experience as a paralegal?

Internships or entry-level positions in law firms can provide essential hands-on experience. This experience is crucial for understanding paralegal duties.

📅 Are there certification options for paralegals?

Yes, certification typically involves completing an accredited education program and passing a certification exam, which is overseen by professional organizations.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Paralegals and Local Law Research

Recent court rulings highlight the evolving role of paralegals in the legal field and their impact on local law research. These cases reflect the importance of legal research and the skills required in today’s legal environment.

For more recent rulings, check out more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Local laws are, in essence, laws that are made that effect a very limited area geographically. Local laws can vary in scope, varying with how one decides to quantifying   Most definitions of local law would almost be synonymous with municipal law, meaning related to a town or city. (judicial review), meaning it must adhere to overarching legal standards, up to an including the Constitution.  

Local law is the category of legal research that relies predominantly on primary source research comparative to all others, since the scope often precludes there being an abundance of secondary research from which to draw.  Naturally, because of their limited scope, many local laws are less likely to produce written material in reference to the law as a something like a Constitutional Amendment would.

 For example, if an attorney was making a case that a local town ordinance was unconstitutional under the Second Amendment (The right to keep and bear arms)

Do You Know How to Find Local Laws?

Therefore, cases and arguments that are based on local laws often have to base their arguments more so on practical argument of the written law, than other arguments or opinions pertaining to that law.

Based on the scope of the law, the means by which it can be made available for public perusal can vary.  In some cases, they will not be published at all, save for online, and online publication  This means that finding the law in question, despite its specific nature, many involve field work or outsourcing of paralegal work in order to obtain the letter of the law, which will always be available at the local city hall or municipal courthouse, if there is one.

Finding secondary sources, if there are any, can be more difficult as well, since there will likely be very little, if any.  Therefore, legal research will often have to be done in the interest of finding similar work, meaning that secondary work will almost always have to rely on digests, which primarily work on the basic of subject or key word.