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 Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) (2299) Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science Mission Statement The Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) program is for students who wish to seek employment in the legal or criminal justice field as paralegals or for individuals presently employed who wish to advance in their careers. Florida Community College’s program is structured to meet the needs of the legal profession in the state of Florida, as developed in response to a survey of local attorneys, which showed a great need for trained paraprofessional specialists in the field. Courses are taught by practicing attorneys or other legal professionals. An advisory committee composed of attorneys and other professionals meets regularly to make suggestions and recommendations for the program. The program culminates in a professional internship (PLA 1943 Internship). All other professional core courses must be completed prior to enrollment in the internship. In this course, students will work not less than 120 hours in a law or law-related office. In addition, students will meet to share work experiences and receive final preparation for paraprofessional practice. Note Students who want to pursue a baccalaureate degree should consult the program director. The final responsibility for meeting graduation requirements stated in your Degree Audit Report rests with the student. Transfer of Legal Specialty Courses from other institutions must be approved by the program director. Educational Goals of the Legal Assisting Program An associate in science degree prepares graduates to assist attorneys as legal assistants in administrative agencies, insurance companies, private law firms, state agencies, corporations, government, and other legal environments. The technical curriculum has been designed to provide students with knowledge and skills in the areas of the role of a legal assistant, ethical requirements, legal research, analysis, the preparation of legal documents, litigation practice and procedure, real estate transactions, family law, administrative law, tort law, criminal law and probate law and practice. Emphasis is on training students in both civil and criminal matters. Accreditation This program is approved by the American Bar Association. In fact, FCCJ has the only paralegal program in North Florida approved by the ABA. In accordance with stringent guidelines, all FCCJ legal program faculty members are ABA approved and the program has an active advisory committee of 24 area lawyers, judges, court administrators and business leaders. Internship The program culminates in a professional internship program. All other professional core courses must be completed prior to enrollment in the internship. In this course, students will work not less than 120 hours in a law-related office. In addition, students will meet weekly to share work experiences and receive final preparation for paraprofessional practice. Career Opportunities, Rapid Placement Florida Community College’s Career Development Centers handle job placement for the majority of paralegals in Jacksonville and the surrounding five-county area. Lawyers benefit by shifting certain responsibilities to certified legal assistants and paralegals whose hours are billable. Annual Salaries Salaries and bonuses for paralegals average about $39,000 and range as high as $61,400 with advancement and experience. Certification The Certified Legal Assistant/Certified Paralegal credential is recognized in the legal community as representing the highest standard of excellence and professionalism, especially for those who have taken the additional step to attain the Specialty designation in one or more fields of practice. FCCJ and the Northeast Florida Paralegal Association cosponsor a five-week review course to help you prepare for the rigorous two-day certification exam. Articulation This A.S. degree program articulates into a bachelor’s degree program. For more information, please visit the Transfer Services Web site. Students desiring to enter the legal assisting program must have a personal interview with the program director prior to enrollment. Cost Estimated cost of tuition is $4,250 (tuition rated for Florida residents, as of 7/07). Contact the program manager for additional costs (textbooks, materials, fees). Curriculum
*Refer to A.S. degree General
Education Requirements. Notes While legal assistants/paralegals are not permitted by law to give legal advice, they do work under the direct supervision of attorneys, performing specifically delegated duties necessary in the effective delivery of legal services to the client. The program supports these ethical guidelines against the unauthorized practice of law by non-attorneys and students have extensive training in legal ethics. You have two options in this program: the associate in science (A.S.) degree, which can prepare you for employment or transfer to a state university, and the associate in applied science (A.A.S.) degree, which is intended primarily for students who want immediate employment after graduation. If you choose the A.S. degree you must take MAC 1105, MGF 1106 or a higher level mathematics. The A.A.S. degree requires MAT 1033 or higher. Please see an advisor to determine the option that is best for you. Record of Conviction of a Crime Most public service agencies and some law firms require students to undergo drug screening and criminal background checks prior to placement in legal departments. Students whose drug screening and criminal background checks are deemed unsatisfactory may be denied access to public service agencies. If the students enroll in an internship or cooperative education class and are seeking experience at a State Attorney’s Office or other public service agency, then a background check is performed by the SAO or facility and the student may be denied the internship based on their criminal record. Return to Degree and Certificate Programs 
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