Paralegals and legal assistants in South Dakota play an important role in the legal system β 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 youβll find top local and online schools near Watertown, plus helpful info on certification and career paths.
Flexible Paralegal Programs
Now Accepting Students in Watertown, South Dakota:
Paralegal Schools near Watertown
#1
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
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Fergus Falls, MN
β’108 miles away
Located in Fergus Falls, MN Minnesota State Community and Technical College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Beauty Cosmetology.
Located in Alexandria, MN Alexandria Technical & Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Machining Technology, Carpenter, and Carpentry. The campus serves roughly 1,438 learners.
Located in Moorhead, MN Minnesota State University Moorhead is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Construction Manager, Criminal Justice, and Cybersecurity.
Located in Fargo, ND Rasmussen University-North Dakota is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Accounting Technology, Bookkeeper, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). The campus serves roughly 44 learners.
Located in St. Cloud, MN Rasmussen University-Minnesota is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Accounting Technology, Bookkeeper, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Based on BLS occupation: Paralegals and Legal Assistants (23-2011)
Data Year: 2024 • South Dakota
π°Median Pay (2024)
$57,300
$27.55 per hour
πΌ
Mean Pay (2024)
$59,790 per year$28.74 per hour
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Wage Percentiles
10th Percentile$47,020
$22.61 per hour
25th Percentile$48,420
$23.28 per hour
75th Percentile$63,650
$30.60 per hour
90th Percentile$84,150
$40.46 per hour
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South Dakota vs U.S.
Median Wage-6.1%
$57,300
$27.55 per hour
Mean Wage-10.1%
$59,790
$28.74 per hour
Percent difference vs U.S.
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Employment Outlook
2024660
Employment: 660 jobs
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Additional Details
π₯
Employment per 1,000 Jobs
1.45
π
Employment RSE
10.8%
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Total Employment (BLS sample)
660 jobs
How to Become a Paralegal in South Dakota
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 South Dakota.
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. Heβs 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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