Paralegal Studies
Picture yourself in a career that lays down the law!
Fullerton College’s Paralegal Studies Program is approved by the American Bar Association, and provides the education and skills necessary for students to perform the tasks required of paralegals. A paralegal plays an important role in working as a team member along with the lawyer and clerical personnel in a legal environment.
Demand for paralegals and legal assistants in Orange County is projected to grow almost 30% in the next ten years. Entry-level positions in the field have one of the highest wages for occupations requiring just an associate’s degree (CA LMI, 2011).
A growing number of firms in business and industry employ paralegals to assist in case research and preparation in liability proceedings, in conjunction with their own retained legal counselors. Many paralegals continue with their education to obtain a bachelor’s degree, and, ultimately, their law degree, while working in the field.
Our programs aid students who enjoy the challenge, research and argument required in the paralegal profession. We provide both a general background as well as specialized training to place future professionals at the peak of industry knowledge and skills.
Student Characteristics/Interest
Good Communication and Organizational Skills
Assertive and People Oriented
Interest in the Law
Sample Occupations and Wages
Legal Assistants $18.74 – $34.72
Paralegals $10.34 – $34.72
Paralegal Managers $20.66 – $40.35
Tools of the Trade
Computer & Specialized Software
Organize important research and gather information with specialized legal software
Oral Skills
Sharing information with others in the legal field with confidence gives an advantage
Legal Terminology
Deciphering and understanding legal jargon helps efficiency and reduces errors
Draft Legal Documents
Legal document knowledge is vital in a competitive and fast-pace environment
