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Public SafetyTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.

Paralegal and Legal Assistant

Assist lawyers by investigating facts, preparing legal documents, or researching legal precedent. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.

Annual openings

715

Median wage

$78,190

Typical education

While, no formal education beyond High School (GED) is required, an Associate’s or bachelor’s degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved program or a paralegal certificate is often expected by employers.

Growth 2026–2032

+7%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

While, no formal education beyond High School (GED) is required, an Associate’s or bachelor’s degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved program or a paralegal certificate is often expected by employers.

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Credential detail

No credential or license is required for paralegals in Colorado. Some employers expect a Paralegal certificate.

Work experience

No previous work experience is required.

The Rocky Mountain Paralegal Association provides a forum to gather with other paralegals.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerYes
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsNo

Interests it draws on

  • Government
  • Legal

Automation exposure

Low exposure

Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.

A typical day

  1. Prepare affidavits or other documents, such as legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing system.
  2. Prepare, edit, or review legal documents, including legislation, briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, and real estate closing statements.
  3. Investigate facts and law of cases and search pertinent sources, such as public records and internet sources, to determine causes of action and to prepare cases.
  4. Prepare for trial by performing tasks such as organizing exhibits.
  5. Meet with clients and other professionals to discuss details of cases.
  6. Gather and analyze research data, such as statutes, decisions, and legal articles, codes, and documents.
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