Paralegals and legal assistants

Average salary: $54,860, plus some bonuses for long hours.

Demand: Mixed. With a decline in legal work in a down economy, law firms are employing fewer paralegals, legal assistants, and legal secretaries. Companies specializing in patent work or other intellectual property still need paralegals with expertise; smaller firms also seek qualified personnel to help lawyers investigate, research, and prepare cases.

Qualifications: Associate's degree in paralegal studies, or bachelor's with paralegal certificate. Case management experience, interpersonal and up-to-date technology skills, and a second language all improve marketability.