Paralegals and legal assistants in Tennessee 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 Kingsport, plus helpful info on certification and career paths.
Flexible Paralegal Programs
Now Accepting Students in Kingsport, Tennessee:
Paralegal Schools near Kingsport
#1
Mountain Empire Community College
π
Big Stone Gap, VA
β’25.8 miles away
Located in Big Stone Gap, VA Mountain Empire Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Corrections, Criminal Justice, and Dental Assistant.
Located in Morristown, TN Walters State Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement Technology, and Culinary And Pastry.
Tuition
Contact school for pricing
Contact
500 South Davy Crockett Parkway Morristown, TN 37813-6899
Located in Cedar Bluff, VA Southwest Virginia Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Criminal Justice. The campus serves roughly 1,600 learners.
Tuition
In-state tuition: $4,901
Out-of-state tuition: $10,904
Contact
369 College Road US Rt. 19, 6 Miles S. Claypool Hill Cedar Bluff, VA 24609
Located in Morganton, NC Western Piedmont Community College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Beauty Cosmetology, Construction Manager, and Cosmetologist. The campus serves roughly 1,332 learners.
Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute
π
Hudson, NC
β’75 miles away
Located in Hudson, NC Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute 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 2,331 learners.
Based on BLS occupation: Paralegals and Legal Assistants (23-2011)
Data Year: 2024 • Tennessee
π°Median Pay (2024)
$55,270
$26.57 per hour
πΌ
Mean Pay (2024)
$57,360 per year$27.58 per hour
π
Wage Percentiles
10th Percentile$37,810
$18.18 per hour
25th Percentile$46,350
$22.28 per hour
75th Percentile$63,860
$30.70 per hour
90th Percentile$76,510
$36.79 per hour
π
Tennessee vs U.S.
Median Wage-9.4%
$55,270
$26.57 per hour
Mean Wage-13.8%
$57,360
$27.58 per hour
Percent difference vs U.S.
π
Employment Outlook
20245,890
Employment: 5,890 jobs
π―
Additional Details
π₯
Employment per 1,000 Jobs
1.80
π
Employment RSE
9.2%
π¦
Total Employment (BLS sample)
5,890 jobs
How to Become a Paralegal in Tennessee
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 Tennessee.
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.
Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.
