Paralegal Personnel
| Description |
OES Code: 28305 |
Assist lawyers by researching law, investigating facts, and preparing legal documents. May gather research data for use as evidence to formulate defense or to initiate legal action. These workers are career professionals, usually having either a four-year college degree or a degree from an institute specializing in the paralegal profession.
Wages, California
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$14.13 |
| 25th Percentile |
$16.26 |
| 50th Percentile |
$21.72 |
| 75th Percentile |
$27.23 |
Wages, San Joaquin
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$14.00 |
| 25th Percentile |
$15.85 |
| 50th Percentile |
$19.52 |
| 75th Percentile |
$22.26 |
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
Most Paralegals work a standard 40-hour week. Most paralegal workers receive paid vacation, sick leave, medical, dental and life insurance and retirement plans. Some employers provide vision insurance.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
9,330 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
12,360 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
32.5% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
2,390 |
Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
| Employment 1999 |
70 |
| Projected Employment 2006 |
100 |
| Percent Change 1999-2006 |
42.9% |
| Separations 1999-2006 |
10 |
Employment Trends by California County
Advancement
In most large firms a Paralegal advances several levels until they reach senior level. Beyond that, in some of the larger companies there are supervisory, coordinating and trainer positions; however, there are very few of these promotional situations. Some Paralegals will continue their education and become lawyers; others will open their own paralegal firms.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Job seekers should look at the classified ads in local newspapers and law journals. They should register with the California Employment Development Department's, their school placement office and personnel offices of federal, state, city, and county governments.
For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
|
Community colleges and four-year institutions offer paralegal course work. Many of the classes are offered in the afternoon and evening. Some schools offer general paralegal training within different areas of law, including legal research techniques. Others provide programs leading to specialties, such as real estate, estate planning and probate, litigation, family law and income taxes. Classes also include introduction to law, tools and techniques of legal research, law office administration and corporate law.
Skills & Other Requirements
To be successful as a Paralegal, good research ability and logical thinking are necessary, as well as excellent writing and speaking skills. Familiarity with the operation and applications of computers in legal research and litigation support is increasingly important. While in high school, valuable experience is available by serving in student government, working for the school newspaper and being on the debate team.
References
California Occupational Guide: #464
Related Occupations: Legal Secretaries, Attorneys
Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP) |
