Paralegals and legal assistants

Paralegals and legal assistants play a vital role in the US economy, with 376K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $61,010, with projected growth of 0% through 2034 (Little or no change).

$61,010
Median Salary
0%
Growth Rate
90%
AI Risk
Associate's Degree
Education

💰 Salary Range

$36,606$61,010 median$97,616

📈 Growth Outlook

➡️ Stable — 0% projected growth

🤖 AI Automation Risk

Very High

This career faces substantial disruption from AI automation.

🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Paralegals and legal assistants

AI Collaboration Score

1600% — Very High

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

🔮 Future Outlook

The core duties of this occupation—legal research, document drafting, and information organization—are fundamentally digital and align perfectly with the strengths of Large Language Models. While some interpersonal and courtroom logistics remain, AI can already automate or significantly accelerate the vast majority of a paralegal's workload, leading to the BLS's projection of 0% job growth despite high demand for legal services.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

🌅 A Day in the Life

As a paralegals and legal assistant, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

🌟 Why It's Promising

With 0% projected growth and a median salary of $61,010, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.

🚀 How to Get Started

Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

🎯 Who Is It For

Anyone interested in paralegals and legal assistants who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

🔗 Related Careers

Court reporters and simultaneous captioners

$67,310AI Risk: 90%➡️ Stable

Judges and hearing officers

$135,160AI Risk: 70%➡️ Stable

Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators

$67,710AI Risk: 70%moderate

Security guards and gambling surveillance officers

$38,390AI Risk: 50%➡️ Stable

Private detectives and investigators

$52,370AI Risk: 60%moderate

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Paralegals and legal assistants make?

The median salary for a Paralegals and legal assistants is $61,010 per year. Salaries range from $36,606 to $97,616 depending on experience, location, and specialization.

What AP courses should I take to become a Paralegals and legal assistants?

Entry typically requires associate's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Is Paralegals and legal assistants a good career in 2026?

With 0% projected growth and a median salary of $61,010, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.

Will AI replace Paralegals and legal assistantss?

AI risk score: 90/100. This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.

Find Your Perfect Career Match

Interested in becoming a Paralegals and legal assistants? Download PathLeap for personalized career recommendations based on your interests and skills.

🚀 Join the Waitlist — Coming Soon