Paralegal Technology, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science Degree: (PART-AAS)

About the Program

The Paralegal Technology Associate of Applied Science degree program provides students with the educational background and training required to become a paralegal, legal assistant or legal aide, able to assist a licensed attorney in providing legal services to their clients. The program provides the knowledge and skills regarding the legal system and substantive and procedural law necessary to perform many routine legal processes under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

Program Goals

• To teach students to articulate the needs and goals of clients relevant to the skills required for a paralegal assistant meeting current and future needs and practices
• Provide students with an understanding of the roles and functions of paralegals in law firms and occupational settings

Program Outcomes

Students will be able to:

• Define and properly use terminology relating to areas of legal practice including civil, criminal, family, probate and estate, property, tort and business organizations
• Apply knowledge, critical thinking and skills in legal research, writing, concepts and terminology to interpret and process simple legal documents
• Critically evaluate and identify legal problems and procedures in various areas of substantive laws
• Evaluate and respond appropriately to situations requiring legal, moral and ethical judgment, evidence, facts and legal issues
• Ability to use electronic software programs and technology, relevant to the profession, to conduct research and develop strategies for legal interpretation
• Understand, articulate and adhere to the ethical regulations and guidelines governing the legal profession

Admission Requirements

To be admitted into the Paralegal Technology program students must:

• Fulfill all WCCCD admission requirements
• Declare program intent on the WCCCD admission application or change program intent at the campus admission office
• Fulfill course placement requirements based on the ACCUPLACER^® assessment
• Complete and submit the WCCCD Program Application to the PLT Faculty Discipline Chair or designee
• Complete the following courses at WCCCD or obtain equivalent transfer credit for the following courses: ENG 119 , PS 101 , BUS 225 , and SPH 101