Behind every successful legal team is a skilled paralegal—an essential professional who keeps the legal engine running. Garrick Pursley, Director, Master of Legal Studies Program, outlines the key steps to becoming a paralegal, along with the core responsibilities and skills needed for the role.
What is a paralegal, and why is this role so essential in today’s legal landscape?
“Paralegals are indispensable members of legal teams, providing critical support to attorneys at law firms, corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies,” says Garrick Pursley. “From conducting legal research to managing case files and preparing for trial, paralegals help make legal operations more efficient and cost-effective.”
As the legal field grows increasingly complex, so does the demand for skilled paralegals. If you are looking at a law-related career but are not interested in becoming an attorney, the paralegal path offers a meaningful, high-impact alternative.
Below, we explore a paralegal’s responsibilities and how to become a paralegal.
What Does a Paralegal Do?
A paralegal is a trained legal professional who assists attorneys in various legal tasks but is not licensed to practice law. Their work is crucial to the legal process, and while they can’t represent clients in court or give legal advice, their behind-the-scenes contributions are invaluable.
If you are thinking about this career path, you may have wondered: what do paralegals do? They wear a lot of hats, doing everything from legal research to organizing case files, making them a vital part of any legal team.
It is important to distinguish a paralegal from a legal assistant or attorney. A legal assistant may perform more administrative tasks, whereas a paralegal engages in substantial legal work under the supervision of an attorney.
Paralegal Job Responsibilities and Skills
Paralegals perform a wide range of tasks essential to a legal team’s success. Typical paralegal responsibilities include legal research, drafting documents, organizing files and case materials, client communication, and trial preparation support. While these responsibilities may vary depending on the work environment and legal specialty, all paralegals help streamline legal operations, allowing attorneys to focus on building a winning case.
Paralegals must possess a unique blend of technical and soft skills to succeed.
“Employers look for candidates who can manage legal complexities while maintaining strong organizational and communication skills,” says Pursley.
Key skills include legal knowledge, research and writing skills, attention to detail, strong communication, and organization. These skills are developed in the classroom and refined in the workplace, often accelerated through advanced study.
How to Become a Paralegal in 5 steps
1. Complete Your Paralegal Education
Do you need a degree to become a paralegal? Not always, as some law firms offer on-the-job training, but a degree can strengthen your opportunities. With rising competition, many firms prefer that applicants possess an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, online paralegal degree, or paralegal certificate.
For those seeking a competitive edge, a Master of Legal Studies (MLS) degree can be especially valuable. Unlike law school, an MLS degree does not require a J.D. but offers advanced legal training that deepens one’s understanding of legal systems and research methods, skills highly relevant for experienced or aspiring paralegals. The online Master of Legal Studies at Vanderbilt University is a compelling option when considering online MLS degrees.
2. Explore Legal Specializations That Match Your Interests
The legal field is broad and diverse. Do you see yourself thriving in real estate law, employment law, intellectual property law, or another area? Identifying your area of interest early on can help you tailor your education and internship opportunities, plus guide where you apply for jobs after completing your training.
3. Understand State-Level Requirements
Paralegal qualifications can vary by state, so it is important to research your state’s specific requirements. For example, some states may require additional exams, hands-on experience, or specific certifications. Be sure to confirm these details with potential employers or your state’s legal licensing board.
4. Gain Real-World Experience
Before landing your first paralegal position, you may find it useful to gain practical experience as a volunteer, intern, or secretary within law offices. A strong law school like Vanderbilt provides access to a large, engaged alumni network that online MLS students can leverage to find these types of opportunities.
5. Apply for Paralegal Roles
Once you have completed your education and gained some practical experience, it is officially time to launch your career. Paralegals work in a wide range of settings, each offering unique challenges and opportunities. While law firms are the most common employers, many paralegals find fulfilling careers in environments that align with their specific interests or legal specialties. Popular areas for paralegals include:
- Law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies
- Nonprofits
Paralegal Salary Expectations
A paralegal salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but as of 2024, the median annual salary in the United States was approximately $61,010, with the top 10% of earners exceeding $98,000. Earning a paralegal certificate or completing an advanced degree, like an online Master of Legal Studies, can significantly increase earning potential.
Pathways to Promotion
Looking to advance your paralegal career? Focus on gaining experience, specializing in a niche, building a strong professional network, and developing leadership skills.
You might also consider pursuing an advanced degree to deepen your legal knowledge and open the door to expanded career opportunities. Vanderbilt’s online MLS program delivers the flexibility that today’s working professionals need, offering courses that can be completed in as few as 12 months.
“Designed by world-renowned Vanderbilt Law faculty, the program focuses on equipping professionals with an understanding of advanced legal concepts, legal research and analysis, and complex legal materials, while emphasizing real-world application,” says Pursley.
Ready to Enter the Legal Field or Take the Next Step in Your Current Role?
Pursuing an online Master of Legal Studies can be a strategic next move. Learn about Vanderbilt’s online MLS today.
About Vanderbilt Law School
Vanderbilt Law School has prepared students for exceptional careers throughout the United States and around the world for 145 years.
Located on the Vanderbilt University campus in Nashville, Tennessee, the law school combines the advantages of a stimulating university community, a top-tier research faculty, award-winning teachers, and a vibrant student body.
Known for its rigorous academics in a collegial, supportive atmosphere, Vanderbilt Law School attracts students and faculty seeking a first-rate education within a nurturing community.
Get started now
To learn more about the online Master of Legal Studies and download a brochure, please fill out this form. You can also reach an enrollment specialist directly by calling 629-284-0124.