Paralegals and legal assistants in Illinois play an important role in the legal system — from preparing legal documents to supporting attorneys in trial preparation and research.
With steady job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities in law firms, corporate offices, and government agencies, this is a career that offers both stability and advancement.
One of the best ways to begin your career is by enrolling in an accredited paralegal program.
Below you’ll find top local and online schools near Peru, plus helpful info on certification and career paths.
Flexible Paralegal Programs
Now Accepting Students in Peru, Illinois:
Paralegal Schools near Peru
#1
Waubonsee Community College
📍
Sugar Grove, IL
•46.7 miles away
Located in Sugar Grove, IL Waubonsee Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology. The campus serves roughly 5,499 learners.
Tuition
In-state tuition: $3,432
Out-of-state tuition: $12,330
Contact
Rte 47 at Waubonsee Drive Sugar Grove, IL 60554-9454
Located in East Peoria, IL Illinois Central College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Accounting Technology. The campus serves roughly 4,909 learners.
Located in Joliet, IL Joliet Junior College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Beauty Cosmetology.
Located in Romeoville, IL Lewis University is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aircraft Mechanic (A&P), Aviation Maintenance Technology, and Corrections.
Located in Normal, IL Illinois State University is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Construction Manager, Criminal Justice, and Cybersecurity.
Based on BLS occupation: Paralegals and Legal Assistants (23-2011)
Data Year: 2024 • Illinois
💰Median Pay (2024)
$62,290
$29.95 per hour
💼
Mean Pay (2024)
$68,960 per year$33.15 per hour
🏁
Wage Percentiles
10th Percentile$44,180
$21.24 per hour
25th Percentile$48,820
$23.47 per hour
75th Percentile$80,830
$38.86 per hour
90th Percentile$102,270
$49.17 per hour
🌎
Illinois vs U.S.
Median Wage+2.1%
$62,290
$29.95 per hour
Mean Wage+3.7%
$68,960
$33.15 per hour
Percent difference vs U.S.
📊
Employment Outlook
202412,430
Employment: 12,430 jobs
🎯
Additional Details
👥
Employment per 1,000 Jobs
2.05
📐
Employment RSE
10.2%
📦
Total Employment (BLS sample)
12,430 jobs
How to Become a Paralegal in Illinois
Complete an ABA-approved paralegal certificate or associate degree program.
Build experience through internships or entry-level roles in law firms, courts, or corporate legal teams.
Earn credentials by sitting for exams such as the NALA Certified Paralegal (CP) or NFPA Paralegal CORE Competency Exam (PCCE), then maintain continuing education.
How to Choose the Right Paralegal School
Confirm the program is ABA-approved or recommended by your state bar association.
Review coursework for legal research, litigation, contracts, and law office technology.
Compare career services and internship placement to build connections in Illinois.
Look for flexible online, evening, or accelerated formats that align with your schedule.
Ask about certification prep for NALA, NFPA, or NALS credentials.
Meet the author:Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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