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2012-13 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Paralegal Certificate

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Program Design

The Paralegal certificate program is designed for students who have or will concurrently receive an educational (not vocational) associate or baccalaureate degree in a major other than paralegal or legal studies from an accredited institution. The certificate program provides them with the opportunity to enroll in a paralegal studies program that meets guidelines set by the American Bar Association. An option in the program is a cooperative education/work experience course in which students gain practical experience in a legal setting while earning academic credit.  Students must submit official transcripts showing prior degrees must be sent directly to the Admissions office for review.

A paralegal or legal assistant is a person—qualified through education, training or work experience—who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, governmental agency or other entity. The paralegal performs specifically-delegated, substantive legal work, for which a lawyer is responsible.  Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law.

Paralegals may be asked to conduct research and prepare memoranda; to draft pleadings, deeds or contracts; to interview clients or witnesses; to prepare answers to interrogatories; or to digest depositions. They may prepare inventories, accounts and tax returns in connection with estates and trusts; perform real estate title searches and UCC searches; calendar and track important deadlines; or organize and maintain client files. Paralegals may not give legal advice or engage in the unauthorized practice of law.

The MCC Paralegal Certificate program has been approved by the American Bar Association since 1998. It is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education.

The MCC Paralegal Association is a student club that offers networking opportunities and guest speakers to members.

Curriculum

The Paralegal program is primarily an evening program of study, offering legal courses during the academic year. Many students work full-time while attending classes at night. Students should note that not all courses are offered every semester, and only some courses are offered in the day. Part-time students should see a counselor for suggested course sequencing.

Note: Course prerequisites are listed in the course descriptions.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all Paralegal certificate requirements, graduates will be able to:

  1. Recognize and describe the proper role of the paralegal in the delivery of legal services to the public and apply the ethical rules that govern the conduct of the legal profession.
  2. Demonstrate critical thinking, reasoning and analytical skills; conduct factual and legal research using print and computerized methods; and organize and present information effectively, both orally and in writing.
  3. Describe the organization of the American legal system, apply procedural law to litigation and administrative agency law, and demonstrate substantive knowledge of principles of law.
  4. Draft and interpret legal documents, including pleadings, deeds, mortgages, probate documents, court forms, business documents, and contracts for review by the supervising attorney.
  5. Perform file and case management tasks in accordance with office policy and court procedures, using problem-solving, organizational and computer skills.
  6. Recognize opportunities for professional development through continuing education and affiliation with professional organizations.

Required Courses

Total Credits Required: 29

Note:

‡ Students without a strong foundation in computer skills should take CSC* 101  or BOT* 230  prior to enrolling in LGL* 220 .

‡‡ Legal Electives

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