What is National Paralegal Day?
Every profession has its unsung heroes—the people who work diligently behind the scenes, often without fanfare, to keep the wheels turning. In the legal world, those heroes are paralegals.
Since last year, August 6 has been recognized in the Congressional Record as National Paralegal Day, a day to honor paralegals’ many contributions to the legal profession and spotlight the individuals whose skill, dedication, and professionalism make justice possible.
Whether you’re a paralegal yourself, or an attorney who relies on paralegals in your practice, today offers an opportunity to pause, appreciate, and celebrate paralegals’ excellence and professionalism.
What role do paralegals play in the legal field?
Attorneys lead the courtroom battles, sign the filings, and deliver closing arguments—but typically, none of that happens without the groundwork laid by skilled paralegals.
Paralegals conduct legal research, draft legal documents, organize case materials, investigate, manage deadlines, communicate with clients, and ensure compliance with court rules. They are the operational core of many law practices, without whose meticulous attention to detail, strategic foresight, and deep understanding of legal procedures, the justice system would function far less efficiently.
How did National Paralegal Day come about?
The initiative to establish a federal National Paralegal Day was the collaborative effort of many individuals, groups, and professional organizations, including:
- American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
- NALA – The Paralegal Association (NALA)
- National Association for Legal Support Professionals (NALS)
- National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc. (NFPA)
As noted in the National Paralegal Day Supporting Information submitted to back the effort, the organizers sought, “…a platform to thank paralegals for their tireless work and contributions to the legal field alongside their attorneys” that would “help to put into perspective what it means to be a paralegal and correct any misconceptions that may exist about paralegals being ‘glorified secretaries.'”
On August 6, 2024, When Hon. Kevin Hern of Oklahoma rose in the House of Representatives to commemorate the first National Paralegal Day, he echoed those sentiments, stating:
‘Liberty and justice for all’ is more than just a line in our national Pledge of Allegiance—it’s the day-in, day-out mission for those in the legal profession. Paralegals are essential to that profession, working in government agencies, corporations, law firms, and more.
Why is National Paralegal Day on August 6?
The date August 6 was chosen to commemorate a significant milestone in the legal profession. As Cheryl J. Nodarse, ACP, President of the NALA Board of Directors, shared in a message:
As we mark the second National Paralegal Day on August 6, we celebrate the day in 1968 when the American Bar Association created the Special Committee on Lay Assistants—what is now its Standing Committee on Paralegals. This historic milestone is now recognized in the Congressional Record.
Paralegals have been the backbone of legal teams for decades; they are hard-working professionals who uphold the highest ethical standards and provide the vital support that allows attorneys to pursue the ideals of liberty and justice for all. Recognition of their contributions is long overdue.
I want to thank our nation’s paralegals for their tireless and inspiring work, and I hope this day encourages others to explore this honorable career. NALA is proud to have joined with our colleague associations to secure this day of recognition, and we remain committed to providing education, certification, and community to help paralegals continue to grow professionally. Happy National Paralegal Day!
Paralegals: Take a bow
If you’re a paralegal reading this—especially one who didn’t know that there was a national day in your honor—enjoy your moment!
Too often, the intense workload and long hours overshadow just how much you contribute. Know that your behind-the-scenes efforts make your firm or organization stronger. Your attention to ethics and accuracy make justice more accessible.
Take a moment today to acknowledge your achievements, big and small. Celebrate with your peers (and if you happen to be in Tulsa, don’t miss NALA’s celebration). Treat yourself. And if you haven’t already, consider joining a professional organization that advocates for your interests and connects you with a nationwide peer community.
Attorneys: Don’t forget to say thanks
Paralegals don’t do what they do for recognition, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t welcome and appreciated.
If you’re a lawyer who works with a paralegal or a team of them, National Paralegal Day is a great time to show your gratitude. Let them know that their attention to deadlines, diligence in managing complex filings, and calm under pressure don’t go unnoticed.
You might also take this opportunity to review your firm’s professional development policy. Encouraging certification or ongoing education not only empowers your team members, it strengthens your practice.
Paralegal career facts and figures
Paralegal work offers a unique combination of intellectual challenge, social impact, and professional growth, which can result in a deeply meaningful career. In support of National Paralegal Day, NALA provided some key facts and figures that show why becoming a paralegal can be a compelling career choice:
- There are over 360,000 paralegals working in the United States today, supporting law firms, corporations, non-profits, and government agencies.
- The paralegal services market in the U.S. is worth approximately $6.7 billion and is projected to keep growing.
- The average annual salary for a paralegal in the U.S. is approximately $59,200, with top earners making over $100,000.
- In today’s legaltech boom, paralegals are at the forefront of using AI, legal databases, and case management software to streamline legal work. TypeLaw is honored to be a trusted resource for helping paralegals quickly prepare compliant briefs and appendices.
- The paralegal profession is projected to grow by 4–6% over the next decade, faster than average for all occupations.
Professional associations for paralegals
Whether you’re an aspiring or experienced paralegal, the following professional organizations that helped make National Paralegal Day a reality can also can help you develop in your career:
American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
National non-profit organization founded in 1981 and headquartered in Dover, DE.
Mission: Improvement of the paralegal profession through the fostering of high standards of paralegal and legal studies.
NALA – The Paralegal Association (NALA)
National non-profit organization founded in 1975 and headquartered in Tulsa, OK.
Mission: Equipping paralegals for the challenges of the future through certification, professional development, and advocacy.
National Association for Legal Support Professionals (NALS)
National non-profit organization founded in 1929 and headquartered in Indianapolis, IN.
Mission: Engage legal professionals on their terms. Inspire legal professionals to want more. Enhance the careers of legal professionals. Promote legal professionals and the legal support industry.
National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc. (NFPA)
National non-profit organization founded in 1974 and headquartered in Minneapolis, MN.
Mission: Promote a global presence for the paralegal profession and leadership in the legal community.
Celebrate paralegals with us
National Paralegal Day is more than just a nod to history, it’s a call to appreciate the people who make our legal system work every day. Today, we honor TypeLaw clients who are paralegals, and recognize paralegals everywhere for their indispensable role, professionalism, perseverance, and passion.
Happy National Paralegal Day!