Paralegal

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I consider becoming a paralegal?
Yes, if you have above average oral and written communication skills and analytical ability; are detail oriented and work well under pressure and with people; can think logically, assume responsibility, and work accurately with minimal supervision; and are able to handle multiple projects and perform complex and routine tasks.

Do I need to maintain a certain grade and grade point average in these courses?
Yes. For an AS, you must earn:

• a grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (“C” average) or higher for all required courses and
• a grade of “C” or better in all LAW courses.

What were the requirements in previous years?
For requirements in past years, contact a program counselor or view the previous online catalogs.

When and where are the law classes offered?
The law classes are offered M-TH. Classes meet one evening per week from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Occasionally Saturday morning classes are offered from 9:00-12:00 noon. Most law classes are held at the University of Hawai`i at Manoa, Richardson School of Law.

Why are the classes in the evenings and Saturdays?
To accommodate the majority of our students who are working adults.

When can I enter the program?
You can enter in the fall and spring.

Where can I get information about this career and program?
Contact any of the following:

• Maida Kamber Center (MKC) for career counseling and information about required skills, work setting, and duties.
• Legal Education department in Kopiko 201

What online resources are available?
U.S. Department of Labor – provides information regarding the earnings, working conditions and job outlook of secretaries and administrative assistants.

American Bar Association (ABA) – is the largest voluntary professional association in the world. With more than 400,000 members, the ABA provides law school accreditation, continuing legal education, information about the law, programs to assist lawyers and judges in their work, and initiatives to improve the legal system for the public.

Hawai`i Paralegal Association (HPA)-maintains high standards of performance in the paralegal profession; to inform members of developments in the paralegal profession; to encourage and provide continuing education for paralegals; to promote awareness and educate the community regarding the effective use of paralegals; and to foster communication, education and understanding among members of the legal profession and the community.

American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc. (AAPI)-founded in 2003, emphasizes the individual paralegal attaining and maintaining formal, legal, and continuing education. It encourages collaboration and affiliation with paralegal, legal and other local and national organizations.

American Association for Paralegal Education ((AAfPE)-recognizes the need to increase and improve access to the legal system, promotes quality paralegal education, develops educational standards and encourages professional growth, in order to prepare graduates to perform a significant role in the delivery of legal services.

National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)-is the leading professional association for legal assistants, providing continuing education and professional certification programs for paralegal. Incorporated in 1975, NALA is an integral part of the legal community, working to improve the quality and effectiveness of the delivery of legal services.

National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)-founded in 1974, is a professional organization of state and local paralegal associations. NFPA has member associations representing over 17,000 North American paralegals. Members benefit from a strong communications network among member associations and the opportunity to be heard at the national level.