We surveyed 5,863 paralegals to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical paralegal. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as a paralegal?
Low
High
Working as a paralegal typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.
Can I learn to become a paralegal?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as a paralegal typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as a paralegal?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically difficult to find a job as a paralegal. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for paralegals.
Do paralegals work full-time or part-time?
86% of paralegals work in full-time roles while 14% work part-time.
Is being a paralegal stressful?
Low
High
Stress is very commonplace for paralegals, contributing negatively towards career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as a paralegal?
Low
High
Organization is considered a very important trait for paralegals, and is critical to success in the field.
How competitive is the workplace for paralegals?
Low
High
Paralegals see mild competition in their workplace.
Does being a paralegal require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Paralegals will see frequent time pressure on the job, likely contributing to an occasionally stressful work environment.
Are paralegals allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Paralegals rarely get a chance to express themselves creatively.
Do paralegals have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
Paralegals tend to have a set and inflexible work schedule that they are unable to deviate from too much.
Is being a paralegal physically demanding?
Low
High
Work as a paralegals is rarely physically demanding, making it a suitable option for those unable to perform physically strenuous tasks.
Are paralegals exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
Paralegals tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.
Does being a paralegal require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail is a vital skill for paralegals, as small mistakes can make or break one's ability to succeed in the career.
Does being a good paralegal require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
The ability to be compassion and empathetic isn't considered fundamental to success as a paralegal.