Pasadena City College

Our program prepares students for careers as paralegals (legal assistants), able to assist attorneys in such settings as private law firms, corporations, government, administrative agencies, insurance companies, and other legal environments. Emphasis is placed on teaching the students in both civil and criminal matters.

Paralegals and legal assistants provide a variety of services to a law firm, including

• conducting client interviews
• drafting of pleadings
• preparing discovery for cases that reach litigation
• preparing wills and trusts
• maintaining corporate records and minutes
• fundamental legal research

The American Bar Association has given its approval to this program. Upon completion of all core courses mandatory for the Paralegal Studies program with a grade of C or higher, a Certificate of Achievement will be awarded.

Note:

A Legal Assistant, or Paralegal, is not allowed to engage in, encourage, or contribute to any act that would amount to the unauthorized practice of law.

A pupil must (1) be a graduate of an accredited high school, or have a G.E.D., and (2) complete a total of 60 units, to be eligible to receive a Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting).