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Washington DC Paralegal Career and Salary Guide

Generally speaking, entry-level paralegal jobs in Washington DC require a degree in paralegal studies, such as an associate degree or a certificate. In our career guide, you will find information on how to become a Washington DC paralegal, the salary and job outlook for the area, and resources to help you start your career in the legal field.

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How to Become a Paralegal in Washington DC

Since there are no formal certification requirements for paralegals in Washington DC, aspiring paralegals can pursue various career paths. The most competitive applicants for paralegal jobs in Washington DC typically have a combination of education and experience and national paralegal certification. Following are the basic steps to becoming a paralegal in Washington DC:

1. Earn a degree or certificate in paralegal studies.

Earning a certificate in paralegal studies, associate degree in legal studies, or bachelor’s in paralegal studies from one of the paralegal schools in Washington DC can help potential paralegals build their legal skills and make them more competitive applicants for entry-level paralegal jobs. Currently, there is one approved American Bar Association (ABA) program in Washington DC.1

2. Gain experience.

Gaining practical experience is another common step for prospective paralegals. Internships, job shadowing, and on-the-job training are often included as part of paralegal education programs. Not all paralegal programs require experience for degree credit, but taking advantage of real-world experience opportunities is highly recommended. Some paralegals start as legal document preparers or legal secretaries and move up the career ladder as they gain experience.

3. Seek certification, if desired.

Although Washington DC does not require licensure or certification for paralegals, pursuing voluntary certification can help paralegals in their job search. Certification is available at the national level for paralegals in Washington DC.


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Paralegal Certification in Washington DC

Paralegals and legal assistants are currently categorized as legal paraprofessionals in Washington DC. In this capacity, they are permitted to complete legal tasks under the direct supervision of a qualified attorney but do not require paralegal certification. However, obtaining voluntary paralegal certification demonstrates a commitment to the field and may even provide networking opportunities. National organizations offer certification programs to maintain a consistent level of competency within the paralegal profession nationwide. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA, the Paralegal Association); the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA); and the American Alliance of Paralegals Inc. (AAPI) offer voluntary certification programs that are widely accepted by the industry as preparing candidates for professional excellence.

Obtaining certification from one of these associations is highly recommended, as it is often preferred by paralegal employers. For more information on becoming a paralegal, take a look at our guide Steps to Become a Paralegal For more information regarding paralegal education and employment in Washington DC, please refer to the Washington DC paralegal associations listed below.

Washington DC Paralegal Career and Salary Outlook

Projected Job Growth

3.2%

Paralegals in Washington DC from 2022-20322

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recently reported 5,340 paralegals and legal assistants employed in the District of Columbia, earning an average annual salary of $94,290.3 It ranked as the highest-paying state for legal assistants in the country, ahead of California and New York.3 DC also had the highest concentration of paralegals of any other state, with nearly eight paralegals employed for every 1,000 jobs.3 Projections Central has estimated a positive growth for paralegal jobs in Washington DC of 3.2%, slightly slower than the nationwide job growth rate of 4.2% during the same period.2

Paralegal Employers in Washington DC

Law firms of all sizes, government agencies, corporations, and insurance groups provide opportunities for new paralegals. LinkedIn is a good research resource where you can search on geography for “paralegal” to find networking opportunities, job postings, and companies most associated with users identifying as paralegals; companies and government agencies in Washington DC with the most LinkedIn users as paralegals include:

  • Covington & Burling LLP
  • Federal Trade Commission
  • United States Attorneys’ Office
  • US Department of Justice
  • US Department of State
  • US House of Representatives
  • US Securities and Exchange Commission
  • US Senate
  • United States Attorneys’ Offices

For more information about paralegal careers, take a look at our careers page.

Paralegal Resources

Here are some resources to help paralegals in Washington DC with professional development, networking, and career growth.

Paralegal Associations in Washington DC

These are volunteer organizations, typically with elected boards, that focus on professional development and networking for a specific geographical location and/or area of law.

  • DC Bar: Dedicated to improving the legal system and supporting legal professionals in DC through educational events, networking opportunities, and job postings.
  • National Capital Area Paralegal Association (NCAPA): Serves legal support professionals across the Washington DC metropolitan area, offering continuing education, networking, and pro bono opportunities.

Additional Resources

References:
1. American Bar Association Directory of ABA Approved Paralegal Education Programs: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/paralegals/paralegal-resource-directory/
2. Projections Central Long Term Occupational Projections, 2022-2032: https://projectionscentral.org/Projections/LongTerm
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wages, Paralegals and Legal Assistants: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes232011.htm