Abstractor

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Work Tasks

ABSTRACTORS analyze and summarize pertinent legal or insurance details, or sections of statutes or case law from reference books. The summaries they prepare are examined and used for legal proofs or ready reference. Abstractors summarize recorded documents such as mortgages, trust deeds, and contracts affecting the condition of title to property. They analyze restrictions and prepare reports outlining these restrictions, and actions required for a clear title. They also analyze written technical information and abstract and index original patent specifications and articles from scientific and other journals.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $44,500 average per year ($21.50 per hour)
• A medium occupation (50,500 workers in 2010)
• Expected to decline (0.1% per year)

Entry Requirements

Employers prefer to hire ABSTRACTORS with a bachelor's degree. Courses in abstract writing, property law, contract law, and technical writing are essential. Knowledge of government regulations, including local statutes and insurance rules, will be helpful. Abstractors involved in a specialized field or science need a degree in that particular field, such as biotechnology, genetics, pharmacology, or biochemistry.