Entry Level Paralegal Salary in Texas
The certification exam is given once a year and applicants who pass this exam and meet all qualifications are considered Board Certified. Here are some examples of possible specializations, and there could be more to choose from as you grow in your paralegal career. Paralegal certification Texas online is now the common way to get certified. Remote working has also become more common in this field as a result of the pandemic.
Paralegals work alongside attorneys in all aspects of their jobs. If you are interested in the practice of law but don’t have the means or patience to do law school, a career as a paralegal could be a good option. Compare the average paralegal salary history for individual cities or states with the national average. Real-world experience and on-the-job training, often offered through paralegal degree programs, contributes to hiring potential.
Paralegals often find that wages can fluctuate not just from one state to another but also from one city to the next. Here are the five top-paying and lowest-paying states for paralegals along with their annual wages. Themedian pay of a paralegal was $24.87 per hourin 2019, equally $51,740 per year, according to BLS. However, locations and work experience also should be taken into account for salary comparison. Certifications are a great way to continue learning and demonstrate your added value. Talk with your supervisor about certifications he or she recommends.
Texas defines a paralegal as someone who is qualified through education, work experience, or a combination of both, and serves under the direct supervision and direction of a licensed attorney. Texas, like most states, has no statewide requirements for paralegal certification. Though national certification is voluntary, paralegals certified through these organizations have met a professional standard of excellence.
The BLS also predicts a 22 percent increase in the need for more paralegals in Texas through 2026. This is above the national average projection of 15 percent for the same time period. This is much higher than the job outlook for many states regardless of the field.
You may work for anyone as a legal assistant with a general national certification, or in Texas without the certification. A master’s degree in legal studies is another option for people who already have a bachelor’s, and want more training. Classes will include more specific training such as negotiation, advocacy, hunter sat requirements intellectual property law, and employment law. Many employers require this as a basic degree You may major in paralegal studies, or have a minor in that area. A bachelor’s degree in any field, along with some experience, is also usually acceptable. A good salary for a paralegal in Texas is anything over $46,717.
In Austin, there are 3,410 people employed as paralegals and the average pay is $50,000. In the San Antonio area, there are 1890 people employed with an average salary o $45,000. Compensation Data Based on Experience The average paralegal gross salary in Houston, Texas is $66,887 or an equivalent hourly rate of $32. This is 1% lower (-$576) than the average paralegal salary in the United States. Salary estimates based on salary survey data collected directly from employers and anonymous employees in Houston, Texas. An entry level paralegal (1-3 years of experience) earns an average salary of $47,972.
However, the average salary of a paralegal can vary by various factors. Like federal government paralegals, local government paralegals work in government settings to help lawyers. They may work in a government affairs office or with special district, water and regulatory enforcement attorneys. Local government paralegals and legal assistants may earn an average of $51,030, according to the BLS. The BLS’ report of local government paralegals excludes education and hospitals. Choose your area of study and receive free information about programs you are interested in.
Paralegal salaries vary depending on industry and location, but there may be things you can do to increase your earning potential. If you’re wondering which paralegals make the most money, the BLS provides a breakdown of thetypes of paralegals and their 2019 median annual wages. Paralegals made a mean wage of $53,190 a year in Texas, which is above the national average. According to 2015 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 22,350 paralegals were employed in the state of Texas at that time.