8 Reasons to Pursue a Career in Paralegal Studies

Do you have a passion for helping others? Are you intrigued by the legal system and looking for a stable, rewarding career? If so, a degree in paralegal studies could be the perfect fit for you.

The legal industry continues to evolve, creating increasing demand for skilled professionals who can support attorneys in research, case preparation, and client interactions. With strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities in various industries, becoming a paralegal is a smart choice for those seeking long-term career success.

Key Takeaways

• • Paralegal careers offer stability and growth: With strong earning potential, various job opportunities, and room for advancement, becoming a paralegal is a smart long-term career choice.
  • Skills and flexibility make this role unique: Paralegals develop valuable legal and communication skills while having the flexibility to work in law firms, corporations, government agencies, or as freelancers.
  • A great path for those passionate about law: This career allows you to make a real impact by assisting clients, supporting attorneys, and even serving as a stepping stone to law school.

What Are the Benefits of a Paralegal Career?

A career in paralegal studies offers a blend of intellectual challenge, job stability, and personal fulfillment. Whether you’re drawn to the fast-paced environment of a law firm, the corporate world, or government agencies, paralegals play an important role in ensuring legal processes run smoothly.

These are some of the top reasons why pursuing a career in paralegal studies is a worthwhile investment:

1. Salary
2. Job Security
3. Work Environment
4. Communication and People Skills
5. Opportunity for Growth
6. Helping Others
7. Self-Employment and Freelancing
8. Law School

#1 – Salary

According to May 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, paralegals earn an average annual salary of $60,970. While salaries can vary based on location, experience, and specialization, the highest 10% earn over $98,830. As the demand for legal support services grows, salaries should continue to rise.

#2 – Job Security

While the BLS projected growth is modest (1% from 2023 to 2033), the paralegal profession remains stable and essential within the legal industry. This 1% projected growth still translates to over 37,000 job openings each year. Law firms, corporations, and government agencies continue to rely on paralegals for legal research, document preparation, and case management.

#3 – Work Environment

One unique benefit of a paralegal career is the flexibility in different areas where you can work. A paralegal can work in corporations, real estate, and hospitals. Paralegals can work as a discovery liaison, legal administrator of business, claims adjuster/investigator, tax preparer, list management, bankruptcy petition preparer, compliance, real estate and title insurance paralegal, government paralegal, and nursing paralegal.

#4 – Communication and People Skills

Being a paralegal enhances both written and verbal communication skills, which are critical in the legal profession. Paralegals draft legal documents, correspond with clients, and coordinate with attorneys—requiring clear, concise, and professional communication. Strong interpersonal skills also help when interacting with clients who may be experiencing stressful legal situations. These abilities not only benefit a paralegal’s current role but also open doors for future career advancement.

#5 – Opportunity for Growth

Paralegal careers offer many paths for professional growth and specialization. With experience, paralegals can move into leadership roles, such as senior paralegal, case manager, or legal department supervisor. Some professionals choose to specialize in areas like family law, corporate law, or litigation support, increasing their expertise and earning potential.

Additionally, some paralegals use their experience as a stepping stone to law school, leveraging their legal background to become attorneys.

#6 – Helping Others

Paralegals often assist individuals facing challenging legal situations, providing a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it’s helping clients navigate family law matters, assisting in pro bono cases, or supporting victims in personal injury claims, paralegals make a meaningful impact.

Their work ensures that legal services are accessible and that clients receive the guidance they need. For those passionate about justice and advocacy, a paralegal career offers a way to make a tangible difference.

#7 – Self-Employment and Freelancing

Paralegals have the flexibility to work independently as freelancers or independent contractors, providing legal support services under an attorney’s supervision. This option allows professionals to take control of their workload, set their own schedules, and choose the types of cases they want to handle.

Freelancing is an excellent choice for those seeking a better work-life balance or looking to build a business in the legal support industry. With the rise of virtual legal services, remote work opportunities for paralegals have also expanded.

#8 – Law School

Many individuals who start as paralegals develop a deep passion for the legal field and decide to pursue law school. Working as a paralegal provides firsthand exposure to legal proceedings, case preparation, and courtroom procedures, offering valuable experience that gives aspiring lawyers an edge.

Law schools often view paralegal experience as a strong asset in applications, as it demonstrates a commitment to the field. Plus, the skills gained as a paralegal—such as research, writing, and case analysis—serve as a solid foundation for future legal studies.

Why Choose UC’s Online Programs for Paralegal Studies?

After deciding to pursue a paralegal career, the next step is choosing the right paralegal program. The University of Cincinnati offers a flexible, ABA-approved program designed for working professionals, career changers, and students who need the convenience of online learning.

Here’s why UC’s online paralegal studies programs are the ideal fit for you:

• 100% online (including no campus visits required)
• Part-time and full-time scheduling
• American Bar Association approved
• Instructors who are licensed attorneys with extensive experience working with paralegals
• High job placement rate

Take the First Step Toward Accelerating Your Paralegal Career by Contacting UC Today

If you are interested in starting the path to this rewarding and fulfilling career as a paralegal, please contact us to get personalized support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the benefits of being a paralegal?

Some of the top benefits that come with being a paralegal include a strong salary, flexible work environment, opportunity to enhance hard and soft job skills, opportunity for growth, and the assurance that your work matters in the entire justice system.

Can you make a good living as a paralegal?

Yes, being a paralegal opens the door to an average annual salary of over $60,000. On top of that, paralegals have plenty of opportunity to grow within their field and earning potential—so much so that the highest 10% of paralegals earn nearly $100,000.

Do paralegals have a good work-life balance?

Work-life balance as a paralegal varies by work setting and case demands. Law firms with fast-paced litigation practices may require long hours, while corporate or government paralegal roles often provide more predictable schedules. With increasing remote and freelance opportunities, many paralegals are finding greater flexibility in how and where they work.

Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

Students must take at least nine semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction.