How do I become a successful paralegal?
Sarah Garza
Updated on March 23, 2026
Here are some of the most important skills paralegal students who want an excellent career should develop:
- Prioritizing. The ability to multitask is a skill paralegals must hone.
- Thinking Ahead.
- Communication.
- Writing.
- Researching.
- Technology.
- Organization/Flexibility.
- Teamwork.
What does a paralegal do for work?
Paralegals do independent legal work under the general supervision of lawyers. They perform more routine legal and administrative functions and assist lawyers with more complex matters. The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market.
What skills are needed for a paralegal?
An indispensable paralegal has an ability to multitask, a strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn, an expertise in organization, and psychic abilities.
- Ability to multitask.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Willingness to learn.
- Expertise in organization.
- Psychic abilities.
What type of paralegal gets paid the most?
Here are the 30 highest paying paralegal jobs:
- Paralegal Manager. $104,775.
- Legal Project Manager. $87,375.
- Intellectual Property Paralegal. $86,800.
- Nurse Paralegal. $82,687.
- Employment and Labor Law Paralegal. $80,685.
- Government Paralegal. $78,478.
- Senior Paralegal. $69,995.
- Corporate Paralegal. $66,134.
What type of person makes a good paralegal?
5 Quality Traits Every Paralegal Should Have
- You’re interested in the law and the legal process. The first, most obvious quality trait of a paralegal is a special interest in law, legal issues, and legal proceedings.
- You’re great at multitasking.
- You are a people person.
- You tend to pay attention to detail.
What is better law clerk or paralegal?
Law clerks have typically completed law school, while paralegals obtain certification through a one- to two-year training program. Both may work for law firms, but law clerks more often serve under judges, providing counsel and support.
Can paralegals make six figures?
Paralegals and Legal Assistants With an average salary of $53,910, it usually takes 20 years in the field for paralegals to earn a six-figure salary. There are currently 104,000 millennials working as paralegals and legal assistants.
How can I get a job as a paralegal?
Some paralegals gain experience and then apply for a training contract at the same firm, while others move on from firms where this is not an option and go on to apply successfully elsewhere.
How many hours does a paralegal work per week?
Paralegals who are employed in law firm environments frequently work more than 40 hours a week, although those who are employed in corporate and government arenas might enjoy more relaxed schedules. And you can probably forget about being paid time and a half for your hours over 40.
What to look for in a paralegal interview?
Before you accept a paralegal interview, make sure you can successfully navigate your feelings on the type of law they practice and articulate why that particular firm appeals to your personal value system and goals. Example: “Being a paralegal appeals to my desire to have a meaningful career with societal impact.
What are the disadvantages of being a paralegal?
A career as a paralegal, also known as a legal assistant, can be a wonderfully fulfilling profession, but it also has its disadvantages, from a lack of respect to high levels of stress. For many, it’s a matter of your tolerance for certain things, and identifying why you chose to work in the legal profession in the first place.