Legal Assistant Degree
The Legal Assistant, also referred to as a Paralegal, provides a variety of invaluable services in private law firms, banks, insurance companies, corporations, governmental agencies, and offices. Job duties often include conducting legal research, writing correspondence, drafting legal documents, and managing a law office. Paralegals may also investigate cases, interview clients and witnesses, and generally aid attorneys in preparing for trials and hearings.
BCCC offers an AAS degree program. Some paralegals advance their career beyond the associate or bachelor’s degree by entering law school.
Program Objectives:
- To provide a basic understanding of legal concepts and terminology.
- To develop strong analytical, research and writing skills.
- To develop an understanding of legal ethics and professional responsibility.
- To develop practical skills that will enable the paralegal to competently assist an attorney in the practice of law.
Students should note that a paralegal can only perform legal work under the direct supervision of an attorney, and are prohibited from independently engaging in the practice of law.
Suggested Sequence of Courses
** All BCCC students must meet the College’s Computer Literacy requirements in order to receive a degree or a certificate. All first-time, full- and part-time degree and certificate seeking students are required to complete the PRE 100 course within the first six credits.