How to write a Paralegal resume?

To write an effective Paralegal resume, focus on specify practice areas (litigation, corporate, real estate, etc.). Include key skills like Legal Research, Document Drafting, Case Management, E-Discovery, Westlaw/LexisNexis, and use ATS-friendly keywords such as legal research, document review, case management, e-discovery, Westlaw. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics and results.

Legal

Paralegal Resume Template

Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing case files, and preparing for trials. They work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and other organizations requiring legal support.

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Quick Facts

Median Salary

$60,000/year

Job Growth

4% (as fast as average)

Education

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

Key Skills for Paralegal Resume

Include these skills prominently in your resume to pass ATS screening and impress recruiters:

Legal ResearchDocument DraftingCase ManagementE-DiscoveryWestlaw/LexisNexisLegal WritingTrial PreparationClient CommunicationFiling & Court ProceduresContract Review

Professional Summary Example

"Detail-oriented Litigation Paralegal with 6+ years of experience supporting attorneys in complex commercial litigation. Expert in e-discovery platforms (Relativity, Concordance) with experience managing document reviews of 500K+ documents. Certified Paralegal with strong legal research and writing skills."

Achievement Bullet Examples

Use these proven bullet point examples as inspiration for your own resume:

  • Managed e-discovery for 15+ litigation matters, reviewing and coding 500K+ documents while maintaining 98% accuracy rate
  • Drafted pleadings, motions, and discovery documents for commercial litigation cases with damages exceeding $50M
  • Coordinated trial preparation for 5 jury trials, organizing 10K+ exhibits and preparing witness binders
  • Conducted legal research using Westlaw and LexisNexis, preparing comprehensive memoranda that contributed to favorable case outcomes

Resume Tips for Paralegal

Specify practice areas (litigation, corporate, real estate, etc.)
List legal research databases and software proficiency
Quantify case volume and document management
Include bar admission jurisdiction support experience
Highlight e-discovery and technology skills

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not specifying practice area expertise
Failing to mention legal software and database proficiency
Underselling case volume and complexity handled
Omitting relevant certifications

ATS Keywords for Paralegal

Incorporate these keywords throughout your resume to improve ATS match scores:

legal researchdocument reviewcase managemente-discoveryWestlawLexisNexislitigation supportcontract draftingdiscoverytrial preparation
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Certifications
  • Certified Paralegal (CP)
  • Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP)
  • State-specific certifications
Education Requirements
  • Associate's in Paralegal Studies
  • Bachelor's in Legal Studies
  • Paralegal Certificate Program
Salary Range
Entry Level$45,000
Median$60,000
Experienced$85,000

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