NHTI-Concord's Community College

NHTI-Concord's Community College

Gain a successful career in the paralegal field

The American Bar Association has approved our Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies that prepares students to play an effective part as a paralegal in modern business and legal communities. The Certificate Program, a condensed version of the degree program, has also been approved. Students taking part in the degree program are trained to work as professional legal assistants in government agencies, insurance firms, corporations, banks and in law firms, generally under the supervision of licensed attorneys. A broad curriculum is provided to ensure graduates are provided with the range of theoretical and practical skills and ethics need to provide effective assistance to lawyers. Graduates have the option of commencing work immediately or continuing their studies at a four year college.

The Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies is available on a full time or part time course, although the majority of major field courses are currently available as evening courses. The courses in general education are available as both day and evening courses. The Associate in Science degree, majoring in Paralegal Studies, is awarded to students after successfully completing the course.

Paralegals' competences

A paralegal is required to exercise independent judgment and discretion in his duties, and will work under the direction and supervision of an attorney. Although paralegals are qualified to carry out many of the routine tasks of an attorney, they are not permitted to practice law, and therefore cannot provide legal advice or court representation. Graduates on NHTI will instructed in the workings of the legal system and the part that paralegals play in it. They will learn the ethical rules of the profession, governing paralegals and lawyers alike, and become familiar with the intricacies involved in running a law office.