As of May 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported about 2,100 jobs in Nevada, with most of them located in the Las Vegas metro area. During this time, the average paralegal salary was $60,410 in Nevada, while the top earners here (top 10%) earned about $82,110, which reflects their extensive experience and specialized knowledge.
Four Nevada companies made the Fortune 500 list in 2020, with Las Vegas’ Sands Resort coming out on top, boasting revenues of nearly $14 billion and employing some 50,000. These and other businesses all need legal services. Real estate companies, title companies, insurance companies, nonprofits, corporations, government entities, and judicial systems are always in search of paralegals to ensure the cost-effective delivery of legal services.
Nevada Paralegal Certification
At this time there is no mandatory licensing or certification for paralegals in Nevada.
Where to Earn Your Paralegal Certificate or Degree in Nevada
Paralegal Certificates
College of Southern Nevada
The College of Southern Nevada‘s paralegal studies certificate of achievement is a 32-credit program for people who already have a two- or four-year degree. It covers substantive law, practical application of legal procedures, research methodology and practical legal knowledge, while emphasizing critical thinking and ethics. Students become proficient in software and other technology used in the legal environment. Graduates should be able to manage cases, demonstrate knowledge of legal procedures and draft legal documents. This program is a good pick for individuals who are already working and wish to increase their skills to advance their careers, or individuals who wish to change careers.
- Estimated Program Cost: $2,704 for state residents; $2,976 for out-of-state students (based on 2013-2014 per-credit tuition)
- Prerequisites: Associate degree or bachelor’s degree
- ABA Approved: No
- Format: On campus
Sample required courses:
- Introduction to Information Systems
- Fundamentals of Law
- Civil Procedure
- Law Office Management
- Legal Research I & II
Paralegal Associate Degrees
College of Southern Nevada (SCN)
The College of Southern Nevada offers a 63-credit Associate of Applied Science in paralegal studies. Students learn to manage cases, understand legal procedures, develop critical thinking skills and apply these skills to research and case preparation. The program also introduces students to law office technology and software.
- Estimated Program Cost: $5,814 for state residents; $19,370 for out-of-state students (based on 2013-2014 per-semester tuition for full-time students)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED; exceptions apply
- ABA Approved: No
- Format: On campus
Sample required courses:
- Ethics
- Fundamentals of Law I
- Law Office Management
- Legal Writing
Northwest Career College – Las Vegas
Northwest Career College‘s Associate of Applied Science in paralegal studies prepares graduates to enter the workforce with paralegal skills desired by not only law firms, but also by businesses and government entities. General education courses are a hybrid of on-campus and online learning, including online lectures, discussion forums lead by faculty members and practical exercises in writing and critical thinking. This gives students some flexibility in completing their non-core classes. Core classes are held on campus and encompass interviewing skills, fact gathering, trial preparation, post-trial procedures and civil law.
- Estimated Program Cost: $26,905 (based on 2013 full-program tuition and fees)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED
- ABA Approved: No
- Format: Hybrid (on campus and online)
Sample required courses:
- Introduction to Law
- Introduction to Paralegal Profession & Law
- Contracts
- Technology in the Law Office
- Paralegal Ethics
- Legal Research & Writing
Truckee Meadows Community College
Located in Reno, Nevada, Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education and has been preparing students for the workforce since 1971. They are proud that 95 percent of their students remain in Nevada, contributing to growth in the state. The faculty that tech their paralegal Associate in Applied Science program are licensed, practicing attorneys and certified paralegals. TMCC has a partnership with Westlaw and students learn to conduct research using this program. Preparation of legal documents and investigative skills are covered, and students acquire training in substantive and procedural law.
- Estimated Program Cost: $5,577 for Nevada residents; $11,715 for out-of-state students (based on 2013-2014 per-credit tuition)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Format: On campus
Sample required courses:
- Introduction to Information Systems
- Fundamentals of Law
- Real Property
- Case Analysis
- Civil Evidence
Paralegal Bachelor’s Degrees
Post University
Post University was established in 1890 in Waterbury, Connecticut, and now offers online programs that allow students anywhere to take advantage of the education it offers. The school was recognized by U.S. News and World Report in 2013 as having one of the Best Online Bachelors Programs in the country. Its online Bachelor of Science in legal studies explores the relationship between the law and business, government and society, while teaching ethical decision-making skills. Students earn a liberal arts education with a solid foundation in legal knowledge and practical skills.
- Estimated Program Cost: $66,000 (based on 2013 full-program tuition)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, GED or successful completion of 16 hours of college prep courses
- ABA Approved: No
- Format: Online
Sample required courses:
- Legal Writing
- Real Estate Law & Practice
- Civil Litigation Practice
- E-Government: The New Legal Environment of Business
Paralegal Master’s Degrees
Kaplan University
Kaplan University‘s Master of Science in legal studies is designed to provide a foundation of legal doctrine and concepts. Students learn to recognize, analyze and address legal issues through courses that cover legal terminology, procedures and skills. Research and exam tracks are available. Students can also choose a concentration in education in the legal system, health care delivery, legal system and the media or state and local government, or opt for a general course of study. Active military and military veterans may receive reduced tuition.
- Estimated Program Cost: $20,240 (based on 2013 full-program tuition)
- Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree
- ABA Approved: No
- Format: Online
Sample required courses:
- Ethics and the Professional
- Legal Research, Analysis and Writing
- Applied Research in Legal Studies
- Jurisprudence and Legal History
Professional Organizations
- The Las Vegas Valley Paralegal Association (LVVPA) serves paralegals and legal assistants in the Las Vegas Valley. It is committed to promoting the advancement of the paralegal profession both locally and nationally and encourages high professional and ethical standards. Members benefit from job postings, networking on local, state, national and even global levels, access to continuing legal information, access to mentors, forums and events.
- The Sierra Nevada Association of Paralegals (SNAP) serves paralegals in the Reno and Sierra Nevada areas. It encourages high levels of ethical and professional achievement, cooperation with bar associations and strong membership ties. Members can network at monthly meetings, have access to continuing legal education and can take advantage of job postings. Student members are welcome.
2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data and job market trends for paralegals reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2022.