Washington Paralegal Schools

Becoming a paralegal in Washington State is a targeted path to job opportunities that are growing faster than average, compared to other positions. Washington paralegal schools offer courses to earn a paralegal degree and develop the education and skills needed to enter a field that will grow by nearly one-third between 2008 and 2018 thanks to private and public sector needs.

How to Become a Paralegal in Washington

Since paralegals can handle most aspects of the legal process outside of the scope of the practice of law, Washington paralegal school curricula resembles that of a law school. Introductory courses focus on the tenets of the legal system, civil procedure and legal research. Washington paralegal aspirants hone their research and writing skills through a variety of law disciplines, including administrative law, real estate and property law. Internships and cooperative options afford Washington paralegal aspirants the ability to put their skills into practice.

Paralegal Schools in Washington

While there are a number of paralegal schools in Washington State, five meet the American Bar Association’s standards for certification. Edmonds Community College in Lynwood, Highline Community College in Des Moines, Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon, Spokane Community College and Tacoma Community College all offer paralegal programs that culminate in associate’s degree programs. Some may wish to consider online options like Rasmussen College or South University for added flexibility.

Washington Paralegal Salary and Job Outlook

Base salary for a paralegal in Washington is more than $30,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and compensation grows linearly with responsibility. The top quartile of Washington paralegals make more than $59,000, and often take more supervisory responsibility. In addition to law firms, corporate legal and finance departments often have openings for paralegals in Washington, as do public agencies at the state and local levels.

Online and Washington Paralegal Schools