Perform secretarial duties using legal terminology, procedures, and documents. Prepare legal papers and correspondence, such as summonses, complaints, motions, and subpoenas. May also assist with legal research.
KnowledgeEvaluate legal documents for completeness and compliance with court procedures using knowledge of legal terminology and filing requirements, working under attorney supervision.
Proficient
KnowledgePrepare summonses, complaints, motions, subpoenas, and legal correspondence applying legal terminology and document formats, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret legal procedures and filing deadlines in court systems and administrative agencies, coordinating document submission timelines.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize case files, correspondence, and legal documentation using case management software and filing systems to maintain attorney accessibility.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate client service principles with confidentiality requirements when communicating with clients, courts, and external parties in sensitive legal matters.
Proficient
MindsetBalance competing priorities and urgent deadlines in fast-paced law office environments with multiple attorney demands.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply Microsoft Office Suite and specialized legal software to create, format, and manage legal documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze legal research materials and case documents using LexisNexis and Westlaw databases to support attorney case preparation.
Developing
MindsetRespond to attorney requests and client inquiries with professionalism and attention to detail, maintaining attorney-client privilege.
Developing
Hands-onOperate office technology including document scanners, multi-line phone systems, and legal software following established office protocols to support administrative workflow.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
154,540
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,530. 25th percentile: U.S. $42,720. 50th percentile: U.S. $54,140. 75th percentile: U.S. $72,090. 90th percentile: U.S. $87,660. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,530
10% of workers earn the following or more
$87,660
Workers on average earn
$60,320
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Administrative4.5/5
English Language4.4/5
Law and Government4.2/5
Customer and Personal Service3.9/5
Computers and Electronics3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation