How to Become a Paralegal in New Mexico

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How to Become a Paralegal in New Mexico

There is currently a demand for qualified paralegals all across the country and in New Mexico.

Anyone currently considering a career as a paralegal should consider their career outlook in this lucrative field.

This career is very promising if you are organized and can conduct research and learn various legalities and skills.

Keep reading to learn more about the prospective salary, requirements, and education options available in the state of New Mexico.

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Requirements to Become a Certified Paralegal in New Mexico

Those individuals who want to become certified paralegals in New Mexico can get certified in a few ways.

First, they must have a GED or high school diploma.

They can work as a paralegal under the supervision of an attorney in the area for a period of 7 years.

The state also accepts a certificate from the American Bar Association for one of the ABA-approved programs.

You may also have an associate’s or a BS degree in paralegal studies, even a full law degree.

Upon completing one of the six methods for qualification, you can take one of four tests. PACE, PCCE, CLA/CP, and PP are there.

Once you pass a national exam and pass it, you may then begin working as a nationally certified paralegal.

5 Paralegal Schools in New Mexico

There are several educational opportunities across the state of New Mexico.

These top five provide comprehensive education and training to help individuals become successful paralegals.

Central New Mexico Community College

Central New Mexico Community College Logo

Individuals who want to become parallels in New Mexico can acquire their associates in applied science from such children in Mexico Community College.

This program requires 63 credit hours and includes general education and business courses.

The location of the campus is 900 University Boulevard SE Albuquerque, NM 87106.

The phone number for the admissions office is 505-224-3000.

Clovis Community College

Clovis Community College Logo

Individuals can attend Clovis Community Colleges to get their applied science and paralegal degrees.

The 62-credit-hour course takes approximately four semesters to complete.

It provides the hands-on Training and education necessary to become a qualified paralegal in New Mexico.

The interstate cost of tuition for the year is $1,616.

The location of the school’s campus is 417 Schepp’s boulevard, Clovis, NM 88101.

The number for the admissions office is 575-769-2811.

New Mexico State University

New Mexico State University Logo

Individuals who decide to attend New Mexico State University can expect to earn an Associate of applied science for paralegal studies.

The course comprises 61 credit hours and encourages general education and other classes.

Those who finish their course successfully are also offered the certified paralegal exam by NALA, which provides a 29-credit certificate program as a legal assistant.

The cost of in-state tuition for the school is $7,301 per year.

The location of school’s campus is 1780 East University avenue, La Cruces, NM 88003.

The phone number for the campus admission office is 575-646-0111.

University of New Mexico

University of New Mexico Logo

This program is offered through the continuing education department of New Mexico University.

This certificate program is for paralegals with a GED or a high school diploma.

This program requires 96 credit hours.

This hybrid course involves half of the time spent learning on campus.

The end state tuition for this class is approximately $8,400 per year.

The phone number for the admissions office is 505-277-0111.

Santa Fe Community College

Santa Fe Community College Logo

This community college offers a 61-credit degree program allowing students to get their Associate and applied science degrees in paralegal studies.

This course covers all areas of civil and criminal law and provides the legal Office training and operations insight to become a successful paralegal.

The cost of in-state tuition for this college is $2,505 per year.

The location of the college campus is 6401 Richards Avenue, Santa Fe, NM 87508.

The phone number for the admissions office is 505-428-1000.

Paralegal Schools in New Mexico – Summary Table

School Name Address
Central New Mexico Community College 900 University Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Clovis Community College 417 Schepps Blvd, Clovis, NM 88101
New Mexico State University 1780 E University Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88003
University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM 87131
Santa Fe Community College 6401 Richards Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87508
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Salary of Paralegal in New Mexico

The average salary of a paralegal in New Mexico is currently $60,148 annually.

However, that figure can reach beyond $70,000 per year based on the individual’s experience, skill sets, specialties, and length of employment.

Annual Salary Range:
$48K
$55K
$62K
10%
50%
90%
Annual Salary by Location:
Location Avg. Annual Salary
Albuquerque $56,468
Las Cruces $51,269
Santa Fe $56,999
Rio Rancho $56,287
Roswell $52,897
Farmington $55,828
Alamogordo $53,802
Clovis $54,336
Hobbs $53,844
Carlsbad $52,897

Regional Salary in New Mexico

Region Employed Avg. Annual Salary Avg. Hourly Pay Top 10% Annual Salary Bottom 10% Annual Salary
Albuquerque, NM1,180$52,970$25.47$74,510$38,010
Farmington, NM50$47,310$22.75$59,480$30,700
Las Cruces, NM170$44,190$21.24$61,800$29,970
Santa Fe, NM210$54,240$26.08$65,350$40,660
* Salary information based on the May 2022 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Paralegals and Legal Assistants, OCC Code 23-2011, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many years does it take to become a certified paralegal in New Mexico?

There is no set number of years required to study to be a paralegal in New Mexico.

However, if you do not enroll in a formal training program or college to receive the appropriate instruction or degree, you must work for a law firm or an attorney for at least seven years before qualifying to take a certification exam.

Are you required to have a degree to work as a paralegal in New Mexico?

You are not required to have a degree to become a paralegal in New Mexico.

However, it is one of the six ways to qualify to take one of the four exams offering a certification.

Can a paralegal work without the supervision of an attorney or law firm in New Mexico?

If you want to work independently, you will need to have a certification from one of the four tests offered in New Mexico.

If you are not certified, you will need to work directly with an attorney or a law firm in the state to provide you with the direction and supervision required.

USA Paralegal Schools by State


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