The salary of a paralegal can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including their level of education and experience, the location of the job, and the type of employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for paralegals and legal assistants was $53,910 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent of paralegals earned less than $33,470, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $82,050.
There are many factors that can influence a paralegal’s salary, such as their level of education and the type of employer they work for. Paralegals who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher may be able to earn a higher salary than those who only have an associate’s degree or a certificate in paralegal studies. Similarly, paralegals who work for large law firms or corporations may earn more than those who work for small firms or government agencies.
It is also worth noting that the demand for paralegals is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, which could lead to higher salaries for these professionals. The BLS projects that employment of paralegals and legal assistants will grow by 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by an increased demand for legal services as the population continues to grow and the need for compliance with laws and regulations increases.