Pittsburgh, PA - ? Paralegal and Legal Assistants I'm just wondering...?
Asked by Sara
I'm a Paralegal/legal Assistant in a Small Law Firm (Sole Practioner) and I'm the only full-time employee. I do everything here, from meals delivered to signing and final review on petitions and cases being sent out. My boss only works 3 or 4 days a week and gets angry when I ask him to review things or to call and handle clients. He expects me to take care of our clients, our cases and manage our part time office administrator. (I am not exaggerating this in the least!) What I want to know is, am I being underpaid? Currently I only make $20,000 a year, plus I pay about $200 a month into my benefits. I have two yrs of experience. I've asked for a raise but no-go. I've started interviewing at other companies for a new job (it's not just money I'm looking to make, my boss is a pompous jerk). All of my friends (most of whom work at law firms as legal assistants, paralegals, legal secretaries) agree that I am underpaid & Overworked. I just want confirmation from an outside source

Best Answer:
I worked in a law firm in pittsburgh for a sole practitioner (great boss) and I made double what you are making. I would say you are definitely underpaid for all the work that you do. With your experience I am sure you could find a better paying job elsewhere. Good luck!

The most accurate information that I know of could be found on www.salary.com. It gives you a breakdown of how much a secretary should make depending on which geographical location you work. If your friends agree, then they must be making a lot more. You should definitely move on. Meanwhile, I suggest you create a portfolio-you should keep work samples of letters, pleadings, etc. to show future employers what you can accomplish and also several copies of your updated resume and references. Good luck!
Answered by Curious1