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If you’ve Googled “paralegal job description,” you’ve probably seen the same dry format repeated over and over again: bullet points, vague responsibilities, and zero personality.
The problem? These posts might help you publish a listing—but they won’t help you hire the right paralegal.
Because the best candidates aren’t just looking for any job. They’re evaluating your post to decide:
“Is this a place where I’ll be respected? Is this work I’ll care about? Will I be able to grow here?”
Unfortunately, most job posts don’t answer those questions. They read like HR paperwork—not a real opportunity.
That’s why we created this guide.
We’ll show you a better, more human way to write a paralegal job description—one that actually connects with qualified applicants, filters out the noise, and helps you hire someone who’s a great fit.
👉 And if you want the full blueprint behind this approach, check out our guide: full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent: Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What a Paralegal Actually Does (Their Duties Explained)
A paralegal supports lawyers by handling key legal tasks—like preparing documents, conducting research, organizing case files, and communicating with clients.
They’re not just assistants—they’re critical to keeping the legal process moving. The best paralegals are detail-obsessed, deadline-driven, and calm under pressure. They know how to spot inconsistencies, handle confidential information, and stay organized even when the stakes are high.
In short: they help lawyers do their job better. And the right paralegal can make the difference between a smooth case and a chaotic one.
Great Paralegal Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced Line Cook with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential
✅ Version 1: Experienced Paralegal Job Description (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Paralegal Needed at Axton Legal Group (3+ Yrs Experience)
📍 Location: Hybrid – 3 days in-office (Chicago, IL) | 2 days remote
💼 Type: Full-Time | Department: Litigation
💵 Salary Range: $60,000–$72,000 per year (based on experience)
👋 A Quick Note from Our Managing Attorney
Want a feel for our team and what we care about? Watch this short video from our Managing Attorney.
🎥 [Insert Loom or YouTube link here]
Who We Are
At Axton Legal Group, we specialize in employment and business litigation. Our clients range from small startups to Fortune 500 companies, but our approach stays the same: be sharp, responsive, and strategic.
We’re a tight-knit team of 12, and every case we take on matters. We’re looking for a full-time paralegal who thrives in fast-paced environments, takes initiative, and knows how to make attorneys’ lives easier—not harder.
What You’ll Be Doing
Here’s how you’ll contribute:
- Drafting and reviewing legal documents (discovery, subpoenas, contracts, etc.)
- Conducting legal research and summarizing findings
- Managing case calendars and deadlines
- Organizing and maintaining client files
- Supporting attorneys during trials and depositions
- Coordinating with clients, court clerks, and opposing counsel
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years experience as a paralegal (litigation preferred)
- Strong understanding of legal terminology and procedure
- Detail-oriented and proactive
- Tech-savvy (we use Clio, Box, Slack, and Zoom)
- Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate preferred
Why This Role Is Worth Your Time
We don’t just want someone who can “do the job”—we’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us. At Axton, you’ll get real mentorship, consistent feedback, and the chance to work on meaningful cases. We’re flexible, transparent, and committed to building a place where people do their best work and enjoy doing it.
We also offer:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with 3% company match
- 15 days PTO + paid holidays
- Quarterly team offsites
📥 How to Apply
We believe in respectful hiring. You’ll hear from us within a week of applying—and every applicant gets a response.
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate candidates fairly based on real-world ability (not just resumes). It only takes a few minutes, and it helps us focus on people who are actually a strong match.
👉 Click here to apply
✅ Version 2: Entry-Level or Willing-to-Train Paralegal
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Paralegal (Training Provided) – Join a Mission-Driven Legal Team
📍 Location: Fully On-Site – Oakland, CA
💼 Type: Full-Time
💵 Pay: $20–$24/hour | Benefits after 60 days
👋 A Quick Message from Our Legal Director
Want to know what it’s like to work here? Our Legal Director recorded a short video to give you a feel for the team, the mission, and what success looks like in this role.
🎥 [Insert Loom or YouTube link here]
🌟 Make a Real Difference, Even Without Prior Experience
Are you organized, curious, and passionate about justice? Want to build a legal career but don’t have years of experience? We’ve got you.
We’re a small but impactful legal nonprofit focused on housing rights. We’re hiring an entry-level paralegal who wants to learn on the job. You’ll be trained and mentored by experienced attorneys and paralegals who care deeply about the work—and your growth.
What You’ll Do Day-to-Day
- Support attorneys with case preparation and documentation
- Help clients gather and submit required documents
- Maintain accurate case notes and track key deadlines
- Assist with research and legal filings
- Provide administrative support as needed
What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or GED
- Strong writing and organization skills
- Eager to learn, ask questions, and improve
- Empathy and professionalism with clients
- Basic tech comfort (email, PDFs, Microsoft Word)
Bonus if You Have:
- Experience in legal, nonprofit, or advocacy environments
- Spanish or Mandarin language skills
(But none of these are required. We care more about your potential than your past.)
Why You’ll Love This Job
You’ll be joining a mission-first team that treats everyone with respect. You’ll learn valuable legal skills, contribute to meaningful work, and have the chance to grow into a long-term role. We also provide:
- Paid training and mentorship
- Flexible scheduling for work-life balance
- 2 personal days/month + 10 vacation days/year
- Health and dental insurance
- Public service loan forgiveness-eligible employer
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to ensure our hiring process is fair and skill-based. No résumé black holes here—every applicant gets a response, and we update you at each step.
👉 Click here to apply
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Why These Paralegal Job Posts Actually Work
Let’s break down what makes these job descriptions more effective than the generic ones you see all over the internet. This is where most hiring managers go wrong—and how you can stand out.
✅ 1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of vague titles like “Paralegal” or “Legal Assistant,” both versions specify the level (experienced vs. entry-level), location, and even the unique value (e.g., “Training Provided” or “Hybrid at Axton Legal Group”). This immediately helps the right candidates self-identify and click through.
✅ 2. Engaging Openings with a Human Touch
Each post opens with warmth, context, and personality—not bullet points. The intros explain who the company is, what they stand for, and why the role matters. This kind of storytelling makes your post more memorable and relatable.
✅ 3. Transparent Salary and Perks
Posting the compensation range builds trust and filters out unqualified or uninterested applicants early on. It also signals that your company values fairness and transparency—two things high-quality candidates care about.
✅ 4. Real Insight Into Company Culture
Instead of throwing around buzzwords like “fast-paced” or “team player,” the posts show what your culture actually looks like—through tone, values, work environment, and perks. This helps candidates determine if they’ll thrive in your setting.
✅ 5. Well-Defined Responsibilities and Expectations
The job duties aren’t just listed—they’re explained in terms of real outcomes. You’re not just asking someone to “organize files”—you’re showing them how their work keeps cases moving and helps attorneys succeed.
✅ 6. Respectful, Modern Hiring Process
Instead of the cold “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” line, these posts explain the process clearly. They highlight the use of WorkScreen.io to evaluate applicants fairly and promise respectful follow-up—this alone will set you apart.
✅ 7. Use of Video for Trust and Connection
Including a Loom or YouTube video from a hiring manager or legal director adds a human face to your brand. It builds immediate trust and makes your post feel personal—not corporate. Candidates are far more likely to engage with posts that feel real.
✅ 8. Inclusive Language and Flexibility
The entry-level post explicitly says “these are nice-to-haves, not must-haves,” which encourages more people to apply. This kind of language widens your talent pool and prevents you from unintentionally filtering out great candidates who may lack formal experience but have high potential.
Example of a Bad Paralegal Job Description (And Why It Fails)
❌ Generic, Outdated Job Post
📌 Job Title: Paralegal
📍 Location: New York, NY
💼 Type: Full-Time
🗓️ Deadline to Apply: June 30, 2025
Job Summary
Our law firm is seeking a paralegal to support attorneys with legal documentation and office coordination. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and able to work independently.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare legal documents
- Maintain case files
- Conduct legal research
- Support attorneys during court proceedings
- Perform other related duties
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate
- 2–4 years of experience
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to multitask and work under pressure
How to Apply
Please send your résumé and cover letter to hiring@lawfirm.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails to Attract Top Talent
1. The Job Title Is Too Generic
Just saying “Paralegal” gives no sense of level, specialization, or what makes the role unique. It could apply to 10,000 jobs. High-quality candidates scroll right past vague listings like this.
2. No Personality or Mission in the Intro
The opening says nothing about the firm, its values, the kind of law practiced, or what this role means within the team. It feels like it was written for compliance, not connection.
3. No Salary or Perks Mentioned
In today’s hiring landscape, omitting compensation details makes your job post feel outdated—or worse, suspicious. Candidates want transparency. Lack of it signals a lack of respect for their time.
4. Culture Is Completely Missing
There’s no indication of how the team works, what it’s like to work there, or what the company values. Great candidates aren’t just looking for tasks—they’re looking for alignment.
5. Duties Are Too Broad and Bland
“Prepare legal documents” and “support attorneys” tell the candidate nothing about the daily reality of the job. There’s no sense of scale, variety, or impact. It’s copy-paste content.
6. The Hiring Process Feels Cold
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is a tired, unfriendly line. It discourages people from applying—especially those who value clear, respectful communication.
7. The CTA Is Passive and Uninspiring
Ending with “send your resume” and nothing else makes the opportunity feel transactional. There’s no invitation, no hook, no energy. Just a cold email and a deadline.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Once you’ve nailed the structure of your paralegal job description, these bonus touches can elevate it even further—and give you an edge in a competitive hiring market.
✅ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Candidates
Scammers impersonate hiring managers. Top candidates are cautious.
Add a quick message at the bottom of your post to show that your company values privacy and professionalism.
Example:
🔒 We take your privacy seriously. You will never be asked to share bank details, personal financial information, or make any form of payment as part of our hiring process.
✅ 2. Mention Time Off or Flex Days
Great paralegals work hard—and they want to know they can recharge too. Even just a sentence about your PTO policy or flexibility can make your offer more attractive.
Example:
Enjoy 10 paid vacation days, plus two personal days each month so you can reset and come back strong.
✅ 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
If your firm offers mentorship, CLE reimbursement, or career development, say it. Ambitious paralegals want to grow—so show them that’s possible with you.
Example:
We invest in your future. From CLE credits to cross-training across practice areas, we make sure our paralegals keep learning and progressing.
✅ 4. Include a Short Loom or Video Message
It doesn’t need to be fancy. A 60-second Loom from the hiring attorney or legal manager saying, “Here’s who we are, here’s what success in this role looks like” adds warmth and trust.
Pro Tip: Place the video near the top of your post, just after the title or intro. It helps candidates connect immediately.
Example:
Before you apply, take 60 seconds to meet our CTO. Here’s what we’re building and why we’re excited about it.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
These simple tweaks can elevate a “pretty good” job post into something memorable—and that’s what it takes to attract the best candidates in a noisy hiring market.
✅ 5. Explain What the First 30–90 Days Will Look Like
Candidates want to imagine success. Share what onboarding, early wins, and training will involve.
Example:
In your first month, you’ll shadow our senior paralegal, learn our case system, and take ownership of discovery tasks on two active cases. By 90 days, you’ll manage your own docket with full support.
These extras don’t take long to add—but they signal thoughtfulness, transparency, and a candidate-first approach. And that’s what makes the best applicants say: “I want to work here.”
Can You Use AI To Write A Job Description?
Let’s be honest—AI-generated job descriptions are everywhere now.
Many applicant tracking systems (ATS) like Manatal and Workable offer one-click AI templates. They promise speed. But here’s the truth: fast doesn’t mean effective—especially if you’re hiring for a critical role like a paralegal.
⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
When you ask a tool to “write a paralegal job description” without any real context, here’s what you’ll usually get:
- A generic wall of bullet points
- Vague, copy-paste responsibilities
- No culture, no tone, no emotional hook
- A post that could’ve come from any law firm
This kind of content might help you fill a job board—but it won’t help you attract the paralegal who’s actually right for your firm.
Remember: your job post is a reflection of your brand. It’s often a candidate’s first impression of what it’s like to work with you. Why hand that over to a tool that doesn’t know you?
✅ The Right Way to Use AI (With Examples)
AI works best as a writing partner, not a replacement.
If you want help shaping your post, give the AI something real to work with—your voice, your culture, your expectations. Here’s a simple prompt you can use:
💡 Smart Prompt Example for AI:
“Help me write a job post for our law firm, Mason & Lowry LLP. We’re hiring a paralegal to support our litigation team with drafting documents, managing discovery, and coordinating case timelines.
Our culture is collaborative, fast-paced, and mentorship-driven. We want to attract someone who is detail-oriented, resourceful, and passionate about client service.
We offer $60K–$70K, health/dental/vision insurance, CLE reimbursement, and a hybrid schedule (2 remote days/week).
Here are a few raw notes I’ve written to help guide the tone [paste notes]”
Then let the AI refine and organize that into something polished. Don’t let it create from scratch—let it shape what you’ve already started.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Paralegal Job Description?
We get it. Sometimes you don’t have time to build the perfect job post from scratch.
Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what makes a great job description—but right now, you just need a solid starting point. That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual kitchen.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Paralegal for Boutique Business Law Firm (Hybrid, Growth-Focused Role)
📍 Location: [Enter Location] | [Enter Schedule]
💼 Type: Full-Time
💵 Salary: $XXX–$XXX + Benefits
Who We Are
We’re a five-person business law firm helping startups and small businesses navigate legal growth with confidence. We’re sharp, supportive, and relationship-driven.
Why We’re Hiring
Our caseload is growing fast, and we’re ready to bring on a full-time paralegal who can help us stay ahead of deadlines, deliver excellent service, and keep our systems organized.
What You’ll Do
- Draft and proofread contracts and legal correspondence
- Maintain case files and document templates
- Track deadlines and coordinate client communications
- Prepare materials for hearings and filings
- Support attorneys with legal research and discovery
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years experience in a law firm (business or corporate law a plus)
- Attention to detail and proactive communication
- Experience with legal software (we use Clio and Notion)
- Strong writing and organization skills
- Paralegal certificate preferred but not required
Perks + Culture
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with 3% match
- 12 PTO days + office closed during holidays
- Quarterly team retreats
- We value transparency, growth, and work-life balance
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate applicants fairly and efficiently. No résumé black hole here—you’ll hear back from us either way.
👉 Click here to apply
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
📌 Job Title: Paralegal – Full-Time | Corporate Law
📍 Location: [Enter Location] | [Enter Schedule]
💼 Job Type: Full-Time
💵 Salary: $XXX–$XXX + Benefits
Job Brief
We are looking for a detail-oriented paralegal to support our attorneys in corporate law matters. The ideal candidate will be experienced in managing legal documentation, coordinating filings, and supporting case preparation.
Responsibilities
- Prepare legal documents including contracts, filings, and case summaries
- Conduct legal research and organize findings
- Maintain document and case management systems
- Coordinate with clients, court staff, and opposing counsel
- Track deadlines and support attorneys throughout case lifecycle
Requirements
- 2+ years experience as a paralegal
- Familiarity with legal research tools and filing procedures
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certification preferred
Benefits
- Competitive salary with performance bonuses
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- 10 days PTO + 5 sick days
- Professional development budget and CLE support
- Supportive, collaborative team culture
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time and use WorkScreen.io to streamline the process. You’ll receive updates at every stage.
👉 Apply here
Next Step – Let WorkScreen Handle the Rest
Writing a great job description is the first step.
But once applications start rolling in, the real challenge begins:
How do you quickly identify your best candidates without wasting hours on résumé scanning or gut instinct?
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
✅ WorkScreen helps you:
- Instantly spot your top applicants
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks candidates on a performance-based leaderboard—so you know who stands out before you even read a résumé. - Easily administer one-click skill tests
Assess candidates based on what they can do—not just what they claim on paper. Whether it’s writing, communication, organization, or attention to detail, you’ll see real-world ability up front. - Filter out low-effort applicants
Tired of AI-generated cover letters, “spray and pray” résumés, or ghosting? WorkScreen screens out candidates who don’t engage meaningfully—so you focus on those who actually care about the role.
Ready to stop guessing and start hiring with confidence?
WorkScreen helps you cut through the noise, focus on high-quality applicants, and hire smarter—without wasting time on résumés that don’t tell the full story.
👉 Create your account at WorkScreen.io and start identifying top candidates with real skil
Paralegal Job Description FAQs
While technical skills matter, the best paralegals tend to share these three core traits:
- Attention to Detail: Accuracy is non-negotiable in legal work. Great paralegals spot inconsistencies, proofread meticulously, and organize documents flawlessly.
- Proactive Communication: Whether coordinating with attorneys, clients, or court staff, strong communication keeps things moving and avoids costly delays.
Calm Under Pressure: Paralegals often work under tight deadlines. The ability to stay composed, focused, and solutions-oriented is essential—especially in litigation settings.
As of 2025, the average salary for a paralegal in the U.S. ranges from $52,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and specialization.
- Entry-level paralegals typically earn between $40,000–$50,000.
- Experienced or specialized paralegals (e.g., corporate, IP, litigation) can earn $70,000 or more, especially in major metro areas.
Offering a clear salary range in your job post helps attract serious, qualified applicants—and shows you’re transparent and competitive.
❓Do paralegals need to be certified?
Paralegal certification is not always required, but it’s often preferred—especially in more formal law firms or corporate legal departments.
Common certifications include:
- NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP)
- NFPA’s Registered Paralegal (RP)
- NALS’ Professional Paralegal (PP)
That said, many firms hire based on experience, professionalism, and capability—not just credentials.
❓What should I include in a paralegal job description?
Here’s what every strong paralegal job post should include:
- A clear, specific job title
- A compelling introduction about your firm
- Transparent salary and benefits
- Key responsibilities and expectations
- Required (and nice-to-have) qualifications
- A respectful, step-by-step overview of your hiring process
- Optional: a video intro from your hiring manager for a personal touch
If you follow this structure, you’ll attract candidates who are aligned, skilled, and serious about the role.
That depends on your team’s structure and workload.
- If you need someone to hit the ground running, handle complex filings, or supervise junior staff—go with someone experienced.
- If you’re open to training and have strong senior support, hiring for potential can be more cost-effective and rewarding. Entry-level paralegals are often eager, adaptable, and loyal to firms that invest in them.
The key is to be clear in your job post about your expectations, support systems, and learning opportunities.
