Paralegal

Is a career as a Paralegal right for me?

The Paralegal program is a program through which students may earn an Associate in Applied Science. This program is designed to teach students primary skills in legal research, writing, and technology that provide a foundation for lifetime skills development in the paralegal field.

If the following qualities describe you, Paralegal might be a good career choice:

  • Good communication and people skills
  • Enjoy researching and writing
  • Analytical
  • Organized and detail oriented
  • Good at solving problems
  • Love a challenge

What's the job outlook?

Projected job growth for paralegals nationwide and in California, Oregon, and Hawaii is strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, projections for growth through 2014 in California is 28%, for Hawaii is 15%, and for Oregon is 14%.

Some of this growth will be attributed to shifting responsibilities from lawyers to paralegals in order to reduce costs and increase access to legal services. Most new paralegal opportunities will come from expanding agencies, while other growth will come from retiring paralegals.

Agencies at all levels of government will hire paralegals in increasing numbers and community legal assistance programs that aim to make legal services available to the previously disenfranchised - like the poor, minorities, and the elderly - will increase in demand for paralegal services.

What will I do with my education?

The program prepares students to assist lawyers in law firms, as well as work in the legal department of corporations, banks, insurance and title companies, or other profit and non-profit organizations. Graduates may also secure employment in various local, state, or federal government agencies. The Paralegal program combines legal theory and knowledge of the profession with the practical application skills that are required of a paralegal who is seeking an entry-level position in the legal environment and related fields.

This program is available at the following campus:


CaliforniaHawaii
  • Salinas
  • San Francisco
  • San Jose
  • Stockton
    		•
    Oregon

    You'll get more than career training at Heald. You'll gain professional polish so you can be an asset your first day on the job. If you're interested in this program, you can pursue the following future educational options:
    • Associate in Applied Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Criminal Justice
    The above serves as a general overview for this program. For details, please refer to our academic catalog. Program availability and educational options vary by campus.

    * if you already hold an AAS degree from the select list of Heald programs identified in the Heald College catalog

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