Paralegal in California

To become a paralegal in California, you need to complete the required education (To use the title 'paralegal,' one must meet one of the following: 1) A certificate of completion from an ABA-approved paralegal program. 2) A certificate of completion from a paralegal program at, or a degree from, a postsecondary institution that requires the successful completion of a minimum of 24 semester (or equivalent) units in law-related courses and that has been accredited by a national or regional accrediting organization or approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education. 3) A baccalaureate degree or an advanced degree in any subject, a minimum of one year of law-related experience under the supervision of an attorney who has been an active member of the State Bar of California for at least the preceding three years or who has practiced in the federal courts of this state for at least the preceding three years, and a written declaration from this attorney stating that the person is qualified to perform paralegal tasks. 4) A high school diploma or general equivalency diploma, a minimum of three years of law-related experience under the supervision of an attorney who has been an active member of the State Bar of California for at least the preceding three years or who has practiced in the federal courts of this state for at least the preceding three years, and a written declaration from this attorney stating that the person is qualified to perform paralegal tasks. (Note: This option was for experience and training completed no later than December 31, 2003).).

California does not require a state license for paralegals. Note: California does not issue a license for paralegals, but it regulates the use of the title 'paralegal' through Business and Professions Code § 6450-6456. These sections establish minimum qualifications for education/experience and mandatory continuing education requirements for anyone holding themselves out as a paralegal. Of the 8 continuing education hours, 4 must be in legal ethics and 4 in either general law or a specialized area of law. Certification of these continuing education requirements is made with the paralegal's supervising attorney. The paralegal is responsible for keeping a record of certifications. The option for a high school diploma and 3 years of experience was for experience and training completed no later than December 31, 2003.

In California, the median pay for paralegals comes to $72,960/year. That's 20% above the national median of $61,010. Wages range from $48,000 (10th percentile) up to $105,350 (90th percentile).

California requires 8.0 hours of continuing education every 2.0 years to maintain your paralegal license.