Paralegal Studies

Program Description

The Paralegal Studies Certificate of Achievement program provides the practical and technical instruction to meet the requirements of the California Business and Professions Code Section 6450 to be qualified as a Paralegal in California. This program is designed not only for those who would like to become a Paralegal, but also for those who are interested in going to law school and pursuing a career in law.

There is a continuous need for trained paralegals who know substantive law and administrative procedures required by the California judicial system. Paralegals provide staff support for attorneys in law offices, government agencies (city, county, state, and federal court systems; District Attorneys' Offices, Public Defenders' Offices, etc.), legal departments in corporations, or in other legal settings. The paralegal professional performs various legal tasks under the direct supervision of attorneys, including conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, assisting with interviewing clients, assisting with trial preparation, and other assigned tasks. Attorneys do many of these tasks. However, under the law, paralegals under the supervision of an attorney can perform these tasks.

The Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the program requirements. This Certificate can be completed in two (2) Semesters (Fall and Spring, or Spring and Fall).

Career Opportunities

This program leads to career opportunities as a Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Legal Office Assistant, Legal Secretary, Court Clerk, Legal Processing Assistant, Courtroom Clerk, and various other legal fields upon successful completion of this Certificate.

Learning Outcome(s)

1. Draft various legal documents including motions, complaints, answers, discovery requests, declarations, legal forms, and other legal documents.
2. Conduct legal research using online research methods, such as Lexis and the Internet, as well as legal books.
3. Perform effective legal analysis and communicate effectively through oral communication and written documents.
4. Communicate effectively with attorneys, clients, and other persons, including but not limited to effectively interviewing clients and witnesses.
5. Assist attorneys in and demonstrate knowledge of particular areas of law, including criminal law, tort law, family law, business law and estate planning, and probate procedures.