What should a person 1+ yrs out of college with 2+ yrs writing/editing exp. ask salary-wise as a legal writer?

I am a dual major english/communication and theology graduate (2006), was the senior copy editor of the university paper for my final year, and have been an editor at a small community newspaper for the Chicago North Shore for a year and a half (making peanuts).

I just landed an interview with a law firm to assist in writing legal documents, but it is hard for me to know what to ask for salary-wise. I figured $30,000 a year with benefits is a good start, but does anyone out there know what I should be asking?

I should add that I did five years of college, the 2+ years are my experience (1 year editing the university paper [paid], 1 1/2 years where I am currently working).

I don't know much about legal writers, but 30,000 seems a little low. I am a freelance writer, so I charge per piece. My advice to you would be: research other writers in your area, compare, adjust for experience and set your price.

Not a bad start, but shoot for the mid 30's if you can. That's really good for only 2 years of college.