Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan paralegal resumes for specific legal terminology, software proficiencies, and procedural knowledge before a human ever reads them. To secure an interview, your resume must highlight the exact skills law firms and corporate legal departments are looking for. This guide covers the most critical hard and soft skills, certifications, and action verbs to optimize your paralegal resume.
Top hard skills for paralegal resumes
These are the technical skills that ATS systems and hiring managers look for on paralegal resumes. Include the ones you genuinely have experience with.
Legal Research
Essential for finding precedents and statutes using Westlaw or LexisNexis.
Case Management
Crucial for organizing case files, tracking deadlines, and maintaining case progression.
Document Drafting
Demonstrates your ability to prepare pleadings, motions, subpoenas, and discovery requests.
E-Discovery
Shows proficiency in managing electronic evidence using platforms like Relativity or Concordance.
Trial Preparation
Highlights your capability to organize trial binders, exhibits, and coordinate witness schedules.
Westlaw & LexisNexis
Specific tools every paralegal must know to conduct efficient legal research.
PACER / E-Filing
Indicates you know how to navigate federal and state electronic court filing systems.
Client Communication
Essential for interviewing clients, gathering facts, and providing case updates.
Legal Writing
Vital for composing clear, concise memos, correspondence, and legal briefs.
Discovery & Subpoenas
Demonstrates your ability to draft interrogatories, requests for production, and manage document reviews.
Docketing & Calendaring
Crucial for managing attorney schedules and ensuring no statutory deadlines are missed.
Corporate Governance
Important for corporate paralegals managing entity formations, minutes, and compliance filings.
Bluebook Citation
Shows meticulous attention to detail in properly formatting legal citations.
Practice Management Software
Proficiency in Clio, MyCase, or Needles shows you can adapt to firm technology.
Legal Billing
Highlights your ability to track billable hours accurately using software like Timeslips.
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Build your resume →Essential soft skills
Beyond technical ability, these soft skills differentiate strong paralegal candidates.
- Attention to Detail
- Organization
- Time Management
- Analytical Thinking
- Discretion & Confidentiality
- Adaptability
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Stress Management
- Teamwork
Recommended certifications
| Certification | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Certified Paralegal (CP) | Validates your legal knowledge and commitment to the paralegal profession through NALA. |
| PACE Registered Paralegal (RP) | Demonstrates advanced competency and experience in the legal field through NFPA. |
| Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) | Shows mastery of core paralegal duties and legal procedures. |
| Certified E-Discovery Specialist (CEDS) | Highlights specialized expertise in managing electronic discovery processes. |
Power action verbs
Start your bullet points with these strong verbs to demonstrate impact.
Example resume bullet points
Here's how to use these skills in real resume bullets with quantified results.
ATS optimization tips
Use Exact Terminology
Ensure you use the exact phrases from the job description, such as 'E-Discovery' instead of just 'document review'.
Spell Out and Abbreviate
List certifications and tools in both formats, like 'Certified Paralegal (CP)', to catch all possible ATS search queries.
Highlight Software Proficiency
Create a dedicated 'Technical Skills' section to list specific legal software like Westlaw, Clio, and Relativity.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most important skills for a paralegal resume?
The most critical skills include legal research, document drafting, case management, and e-discovery. Proficiency in specific tools like Westlaw, LexisNexis, and practice management software is also highly sought after.
How many skills should I list on my paralegal resume?
Aim to list 10-15 highly relevant hard and soft skills. Focus on the ones specifically mentioned in the job description to maximize your ATS compatibility.
Do I need a paralegal certification to get hired?
While not always mandatory, holding a certification like CP or RP from NALA or NFPA can significantly boost your resume's ATS ranking and demonstrate your professional commitment.
Put these skills to work
Now that you know which skills to highlight, use our free resume builder to create an ATS-optimized resume with the right keywords in the right places.
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