Paralegal

Overview

The Paralegal Program is a two-year evening curriculum designed to prepare students to assist and perform, under the supervision of an attorney, the legal functions traditionally undertaken by either an attorney or an expert legal secretary. The program is nationally recognized and approved by the American Bar Association. The curriculum includes a combination of legal theory, principles, procedures, practical applications, and production of legal documents. Paralegal, also known as legal assistant, assist in the delivery of legal services by performing technical and paraprofessional aspects of maintaining any law practice. These aspects may include:

• Interviewing and assisting clients
• Implementing legal procedures
• Performing investigative functions
• Conducting legal research
• Preparing instruments and documents
• Assisting in judicial and administrative appearances
• Completing client projects
• Coordinating office functions

Successful paralegals have:

• above average oral and written communication skills
• the ability to think logically and organize large amounts of data
• analytical ability and are detail oriented
• the ability to assume responsibility and work accurately with minimal supervision
• the ability to handle multiple projects and perform complex and routine tasks
• concern for people and a desire to assist them
• the ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines

Together with work experience and additional educational requirements, graduates are eligible to sit for national certification tests for both the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) designation administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants, and the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation administered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations. Although certification is not a requirement at this time, these designations are a sign of competence in the field and may enhance employment or advancement opportunities.