Legal Secretary

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Work Tasks

LEGAL SECRETARIES perform specialized clerical and administrative duties to assist lawyers in their work. They also ensure efficient operation of the law office and coordinate office activities. Specific duties depend on their level of responsibility and the type of employer. Their work requires knowledge of legal terminology, forms, and procedures, and knowledge of computers and case management. Secretaries may review law journals and assist with legal research.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $48,000 average per year ($23.00 per hour)
• A large occupation (228,700 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.8% per year)

Entry Requirements

Most employers require LEGAL SECRETARIES to have knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database management programs. The skills a legal secretary will need can be acquired through formal training from high school vocational education programs, business schools, or one- to two-year programs in vocational-technical institutes and community colleges.