Legal services are important for citizens throughout Illinois, and to better serve their clients, many Illinois law firms choose to employ paralegals. A paralegal is a legal professional who assists an attorney in whatever way they need, including completing important legal tasks like writing contracts and filing briefs.

If you’re someone who is interested in becoming a paralegal in Illinois, there is a proper path that you should follow for success. While Illinois does not maintain professional requirements for paralegals, gaining an education and becoming certified will help you start a successful paralegal career.

Illinois Paralegal Certification

Basic Paralegal Certification Requirements

• Certification: Certification is voluntary in Illinois and will be done through a national organization instead of the state.
• Age: To be a paralegal, you must be a legal adult over the age of 18.
• Licensure: A license is not required to work as a paralegal in Illinois.
• Degree: To increase your chances of finding paralegal work in Illinois, you should complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies that has been approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
• Experience: Paralegal degree programs often include a work experience segment that is completed during an internship. If your program does not include an internship, you can gain experience by working pro bono for a law firm.
• Citizenship: Legal aliens and US citizens can become paralegals in Idaho.

Additional Requirements

• Ethics: Many paralegals choose to join a paralegal association, which often requires adhering to a code of ethics.
• Background Check: When you apply for employment as a paralegal with an Idaho law firm, it is common to have to submit to a background check.

Becoming a Paralegal in Illinois

Paralegal Certification Process in Illinois

There is no process for becoming a certified paralegal with the state of Idaho. However, to support their career, many Idaho paralegals choose voluntary certification with a national organization. Most commonly, paralegals will seek certification through the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

After you have completed your paralegal education, you can sit for the NALA exam. A passing grade earns you the designation of a Certified Paralegal. NALA also offers a curriculum focused certification, which can earn you the Advanced Paralegal Certification (APC).

Illinois Paralegal Degrees

For paralegals seeking to enter their career as quickly as possible, a paralegal certificate is the most usual choice. However, more advanced degrees will help you compete in this profession more effectively. An associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies from an ABA approved program will improve your career prospects and make it easier for you to find employment.

Major Cities in Illinois

• Over 2.7 million people live in Chicago, Illinois’ largest city.
• Proviso Township has 151,704 residents, making it the second biggest Illinois city.
• Rockford has 150,251 citizens, putting it a close third.

What Does a Paralegal Do in Illinois?

Paralegals have many responsibilities. They are allowed to do many of the same tasks as a full attorney, including writing contracts and other legal documents, providing clients with information about their case and collecting evidence necessary for a trial. Paralegals are prohibited from giving legal advice, however.

Illinois Legal Assistant and Related Careers

If you perform common legal tasks in a law firm, then your career is similar to that of a paralegal. Legal assistants are the most closely related professionals, and do the same work as a paralegal.

Paralegal Employment Numbers in Illinois

11,140 paralegals were working in Illinois in 2015 as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Bureau of Labor Statistics Paralegal Salary Ranges in Illinois

In Chicago, a paralegal can make $51,700 annually. $48,250 is the typical yearly salary in Peoria. Paralegals in Springfield can make $46,190 in a year.

Illinois Paralegal Organizations

• National Association of Legal Assistants Certification
• Illinois Paralegal Association

Online Paralegal Programs and Schools in Illinois

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements

Illinois does not have state licensing or certification requirements for paralegals. However, most employers prefer candidates with formal education and legal experience.

Step 2: Complete Paralegal Education

Although certification is not required, completing a paralegal studies program improves job opportunities. Common education paths include:

• Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies (typically 2 years)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies or a Related Field (4 years)
• Paralegal Certificate Program (for those with a degree in another field)

Choosing an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved program is recommended for better career prospects.

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience

Internships or entry-level legal assistant positions provide hands-on experience. Many paralegal programs offer internships with law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies.

Step 4: Consider Certification (Optional but Recommended)

Certification is not required in Illinois, but earning one can enhance job prospects. National certifications include:

• Certified Paralegal (CP) – National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
• Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) – NALA
• Professional Paralegal (PP) – NALS
• Registered Paralegal (RP) – National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)

Illinois also offers a **voluntary certification** through the **Illinois Paralegal Association (IPA)**, which follows NALA’s guidelines.

Step 5: Apply for Jobs & Gain Experience

Paralegals in Illinois work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Networking through professional associations can help secure job opportunities.

Step 6: Continue Professional Development

Continuing education is essential to stay updated on legal trends. Paralegals can attend workshops, take continuing legal education (CLE) courses, and join professional organizations like the **Illinois Paralegal Association (IPA)**.

FAQs About Becoming a Paralegal in Illinois

1. Do I need a degree to become a paralegal in Illinois?

No, but most employers prefer candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies or a related field. A paralegal certificate is also a good option.

2. Does Illinois require paralegal certification?

No, but obtaining a national certification (such as from NALA or NFPA) or the **Illinois Paralegal Association (IPA) voluntary certification** can improve job prospects.

3. What is the difference between a paralegal and a legal assistant?

Paralegals perform substantive legal work under attorney supervision, such as drafting legal documents and conducting research, while legal assistants focus more on administrative tasks.

4. How long does it take to become a paralegal in Illinois?

The time required depends on your education path:

• An associate degree takes about 2 years.
• A bachelor’s degree takes 4 years.
• A paralegal certificate program can take a few months to a year.

5. How much do paralegals make in Illinois?

The average salary for paralegals in Illinois is around $55,000–$65,000 per year, depending on experience and location. Salaries tend to be higher in cities like Chicago.

6. Can I work as a freelance paralegal in Illinois?

No, paralegals in Illinois must work under the supervision of an attorney.

7. What are the best paralegal programs in Illinois?

Some top paralegal programs in Illinois include:

• Loyola University Chicago – Paralegal Studies Program (ABA-approved)
• DePaul University – Paralegal Certificate Program
• College of DuPage – Paralegal Studies Program (ABA-approved)
• Southern Illinois University Carbondale – Paralegal Studies Program

8. How do I get an internship as a paralegal student?

Internships can be found through:

• Your school’s career services or paralegal studies department
• Law firm websites and job boards
• Professional associations like the Illinois Paralegal Association (IPA)

Comparison of Paralegal Programs in Illinois

Note: Some programs above may offer post-baccalaureate certificates if you already hold a degree.
Community colleges often have open admissions (near 100% acceptance), but institution-wide graduation rates may only be ~15–25%
for first-time, full-time students. Always confirm the latest ABA approval status, tuition rates, and program
details directly from each school’s official website or admissions office.