Program Overview
This program is designed for those considering employment as a paralegal, who wish to update their professional development, or for those already in the field. A paralegal is a person qualified through education, training and work experience, who under direction and supervision of an attorney performs delegated legal work for the attorney or law firm, which the attorney otherwise would perform. Although a paralegal is not licensed to practice law, he or she completes tasks traditionally performed by an attorney, with the exceptions of giving legal advice, independently representing clients, and any other unauthorized practice of law. The Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies has been reviewed and approved by the American Bar Association. General Education requirements and elective courses provide training in effective oral and written communication, and human relation skills. Various courses are taught using group and team activities in the learning process to develop the student's interactive skills and to build human values and ethics.
Career Opportunities
Employment as a Paralegal/Legal Assistant
What You Will Learn
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of legal concepts and terminology in several substantive areas of the law.
- Perform professional caliber legal research and writing using legal reasoning skills in the reading and interpretation of legal materials such as statutes, court decisions and other legal documents.
- Analyze the procedural rules in both the civil and criminal areas of the law and the relationship between procedural rules and substantive law.
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication.
- Describe the ethical responsibilities of paralegals, the rules of professional conduct governing lawyers, and the application of these rules to paralegals.
Estimated Cost
Course fees: $240
Note: Fees vary based upon specific registration and are subject to changes.
Career Outlook
Some careers shown require further education beyond this program.
Additional Information
Specialized Accreditation
The American Bar Association does not offer accreditation, instead the ABA offer status as an approved program. This AAS degree has been approved by the American Bar Association.