Certification in paralegal studies is NOT required to be employed as a paralegal. Some job postings request “bachelor’s degree and/OR paralegal certificate required.” Having a minor in paralegal studies may be looked at by employers as the equivalent of a certificate. It is up to the employer/hiring staff.

In obtaining a paralegal position, experience is most helpful, especially practical experience. Specifically, employers will look for experience in drafting documents, litigation, advanced legal writing, filing documents with the court, and conducting research.

Firms sometimes view certificates as evidence that a paralegal can do these tasks, but experience is given more weight.

Some paralegals start off in smaller firms, then once they have experience, apply to larger firms with better pay and benefits.

Becoming a notary public might also help give someone both knowledge and experience.

Courses at MTSU that are most likely to give you experience in writing documents, researching, and understanding concepts important for the paralegal job: (1) PS 3530 Legal Writing & Research; (2) PLEG 3010 Litigation; (3) PLEG 3420 Torts; (4) BLAW 3430 Commercial Law. Internships are also highly encouraged, especially those that will give you a chance to do real work and shadow both attorney and paralegals.

The median salary for paralegals and legal assistants in the United States was estimated at $60,970 as of May 2023. From one analysis, the lowest 10% of paralegals earn less than $39,710, and the highest 10% earn more than $98,830. In Tennessee, paralegals earn an average of $54,213 per year, or $26 per hour. (Data taken from different sources. Expect there to be a range of $1,000-3,000 for averages depending on the source).

The highest paying cities for paralegals in Tennessee as of December 2024 include: 

Memphis: $49,560 per year

Franklin: $72,204 per year

Clarksville: $56,365 per year

Murfreesboro: $55,921 per year

Brentwood: $52,484 per year