Careers in Paralegal Studies

Paralegals help lawyers in their practice. Depending on the size of their related law firm and the demands of their case load, paralegals—under the supervision of a lawyer—may do research into law and precedent; prepare legal documents, exhibits and files; and coordinate other support activities within the law office environment. Paralegal work can be demanding, requiring overtime and managing multiple deadlines, but it is often rewarding with great compensation and benefits. Furthermore, opportunities in paralegal work are expected to increase at an above-average rate in the next few years, making it an attractive career opportunity. The growth in the number of paralegals and legal assistants is expected to be 22.6% according to the California Employment Development Department (Source: Labor Market Info www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov).

Necessary Education and Skills for Career Success
Success as a paralegal requires excellent research, logic and reasoning, and writing and speaking skills. Computers are playing an increasingly important role in the practice of law, and paralegals need to be comfortable using electronic databases and research tools. California law also demands that paralegals complete specified educational requirements.*

General Info About the Program
De Anza College offers both a certificate and a degree program to help individuals prepare for employment as paralegals. These programs offer courses in various types of law, relevant paralegal topics, legal writing and research, and civil litigation procedure. Both programs satisfy the educational requirements of California law.

Paralegal Certificate and Degree Programs

The following links open in .pdf.

Certificate of Achievement-Advanced:

• Paralegal Studies (Offered only to students who have an A.A./A.S. degree or higher.)

Associate Degree (A.A.):

• Paralegal Studies

* The Paralegal Studies Program at De Anza College is approved by the American Bar Association. The primary goal of the program is to educate students for positions as paralegals where they can demonstrate the competency and ethical standards demanded of the profession. Paralegal graduates cannot give legal advice, appear in court, or otherwise engage in the unauthorized practice of law. The practice of law by non-attorneys is strictly prohibited by law.

For more information contact the Paralegal Studies Department
Social Sciences and Humanities Division
De Anza L13
(408) 864-8770
www.deanza.edu/paralegal/