How to Become a Legal Assistant in 2025
A legal assistant provides administrative and clerical support to attorneys, law firms, and corporate legal departments. This role is one of the fastest ways to enter the legal profession without a law degree, and a strong first step toward becoming a paralegal later on.
This 2025 guide explains what legal assistants do, how they differ from paralegals, and the most effective training paths to get started.
Legal Assistant Salary Snapshot
U.S.19,600 openings/yr
What Does a Legal Assistant Do?
Legal assistants handle the essential administrative work that keeps a law office organized and efficient. Common responsibilities include:
- Drafting and proofreading legal correspondence
- Managing case files and calendars
- Scheduling meetings, hearings, and depositions
- Communicating with clients and court clerks
- Preparing exhibits and organizing evidence
- Handling billing and document management systems
They often work in law firms, government agencies, insurance companies, or corporate legal departments, ensuring attorneys can focus on legal strategy rather than paperwork.
Legal Assistant vs. Paralegal (Key Differences)
While both roles support attorneys, legal assistants focus more on administrative tasks, whereas paralegals are trained to perform substantive legal work such as research and document preparation.
| Role | Primary Focus | Education Level | Typical Tasks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant | Administrative & clerical support | Certificate or on-the-job | Scheduling, filing, correspondence |
| Paralegal | Legal research & document drafting | Degree or ABA-approved program | Drafting pleadings, case prep, analysis |
In smaller firms, the titles may overlap, but understanding the distinction helps you choose the right career and training path.
For a deeper comparison, see Paralegal vs. Legal Assistant.
Training Options
There’s no single degree requirement to become a legal assistant. Many employers hire candidates with a certificate, associate degree, or prior office experience. Here are the most common routes:
Certificate Programs
- Duration: 6–12 months
- Focus: Office administration, legal terminology, document formatting, and ethics
- Best for: Quick entry into legal support roles
Associate Degree in Legal or Paralegal Studies
- Duration: 2 years
- Combines administrative training with introductory law courses
- Helps transition into a paralegal role later on
On-the-Job Training
- Some law firms train assistants internally, especially those with prior administrative or clerical experience.
- This route is common in smaller offices where multitasking is valued over formal credentials.
Explore related programs:
Paralegal Studies Programs · Legal Studies Degrees
Core Skills Every Legal Assistant Needs
Success in this career depends on strong organization, accuracy, and communication. Key skills include:
- Organization: Managing files, deadlines, and appointments across multiple cases
- Communication: Writing professional correspondence and interacting with clients
- Software Proficiency: Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and legal management tools like Clio or MyCase
- Time Management: Handling fast-paced environments with strict deadlines
- Confidentiality: Managing sensitive information responsibly
Employers often value soft skills, reliability, attention to detail, and teamwork, as much as technical expertise.
Timeline, Costs, and Hiring Tips
| Step | Duration | Typical Cost | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate Program | 6–12 months | $2,000–$8,000 | Entry-level ready |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | $8,000–$20,000 | Broader career flexibility |
| On-the-Job Training | Varies | Minimal | Learn while working |
Hiring Tips
- Create a resume that highlights typing speed, software skills, and document accuracy.
- Include transferable experience from office, customer service, or administrative roles.
- Look for internships or entry-level positions titled Legal Secretary, Office Assistant, or Administrative Coordinator in law firms or corporate offices.
For resume and cover letter ideas, see Legal Resume & Cover Letter Tips.
FAQs
Do you need a degree to become a legal assistant?
No. Many employers hire candidates with certificates, associate degrees, or administrative experience.
Can you become a paralegal later?
Yes. Many legal assistants transition into paralegal roles after additional coursework or certification.
Is certification required?
Certification is optional, but credentials such as NALS’s Professional Legal Secretary (PLS) can help demonstrate competence.
What’s the job outlook for legal assistants?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth as law firms continue to delegate administrative and case management tasks to support staff.
Next Steps: Explore Programs
Becoming a legal assistant is a practical way to start working in the legal system within months, not years. Whether you pursue a certificate or degree, this career offers stability, upward mobility, and valuable legal experience.
Use the tool below to compare accredited programs and find your next step.
Related Resources
- Paralegal vs. Legal Assistant
- Paralegal Studies Programs
- Legal Studies Degrees
- Resume & Cover Letter Tips
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