Paralegal Studies Associate in Science Degree
PROGRAM CODE: 2S08434
The Paralegal Studies Associate in Science Degree is designed to prepare students for employment in a paraprofessional capacity as an assistant to an attorney in private practice, in a governmental agency, or in private industry. Paralegals may perform many tasks under the supervision of a licensed attorney including preparation of forms and pleadings, interviewing of clients, researching and writing legal documents, managing a law office, and preparing word processing forms and documents. This program is not intended to prepare students for the practice of law. The Paralegal studies program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). A grade of C or better is required in each course taken. This program requires completion of its own unique General Education pattern that is ABA approved. This degree requires a total of 27 units.
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses (21 units): | ||
| PLEG 101 F | Introduction to Paralegal Studies | 3 |
| PLEG 104 F | Introduction to Legal Research and Terminology | 3 |
| PLEG 105 F | Introduction to Legal Writing | 3 |
| PLEG 116 F | Computers in the Law Office | 3 |
| PLEG 201 F | Civil Litigation I | 3 |
| PLEG 202 F | Civil Litigation II | 3 |
| PLEG 207 F | Computer-Assisted Legal Research | 3 |
| Restricted Electives (6 units): | 6 | |
| Contemporary Issues in the Law | 1-3 | |
| Tort Law (formerly Personal Injury) | 3 | |
| Family Law | 3 | |
| Probate, Wills and Trusts | 3 | |
| Bankruptcy Law and Procedure | 3 | |
| Workers' Compensation Law | 3 | |
| Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 | |
| Paralegal Internship | 2-4 | |
| Real Property Law and Procedure | 3 | |
| Employment and Labor Law | 3 | |
| Contract Law and Procedure | 3 | |
| Discovery in Electronic Age | 3 | |
| Computers in the Law Office II | 3 | |
| Immigration Law | 3 | |
| Entertainment and Sports Law | 3 | |
| Intellectual Property | 3 | |
| Elder Law | 3 | |
| Ethics for Paralegals (formerly PLEG 090FF) | 2 | |
| Advanced Legal Research and Writing | 3 | |
| Law Office Management | 3 | |
| Constitutional Law | 3 | |
| International Law | 3 | |
| Total Units | 27 | |
Outcome 1: Demonstrate ethical requirements required of a paralegal as required by state law and apply rules of professional conduct to resolve any issues.
Outcome 2: Research and perform substantive legal work under the direct supervision of an attorney in any legal environment in any state in the United States.
Outcome 3: Differentiate and describe the organization and function of the United States’ Judicial, Executive and Legislative branches of government.
Outcome 4: Demonstrate sensitivity through adaptability and flexibility in working with a diverse group of people from every socioeconomic level.
Outcome 5: Use computers and other technology for document production, law office management, trial preparation, and other tasks performed by paralegals.