In 2008 (latest data available) there were 262,600 legal secretaries in the workforce. By 2018 the projection is for 311,000, an 18% growth. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics describes job prospects as follows: In addition to jobs created from growth, numerous job opportunities will arise from the need to replace secretaries and administrative assistants who transfer to other occupations, especially exceptionally skilled executive secretaries and administrative assistants who often move into professional occupations. Job opportunities should be best for applicants with extensive knowledge of software applications and for experienced secretaries and administrative assistants. Opportunities also should be very good for those with advanced communication and computer skills.

Wage Information

The latest available information on Legal Secretaries/Legal Secretaries is 2008 data from the U.S. Department of Labor. In May 2008 median annual earnings of legal secretaries were $39,860 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $30,870 and $50,930. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,580, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $62,290.

Salaries vary a great deal, however, reflecting differences in skill, experience, and level of responsibility. Certification in this field may be rewarded by a higher salary.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition, Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos151.htm (visited March 12, 2010).

In addition to competitive salaries, law firms are often known for their excellent benefits packages, often approaching 40%.