Paralegal Studies. Associate Degree & Certificate Programs

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1 Paralegal Studies Associate Degree & Certificate Programs

2 What is a Paralegal? The American Bar Association defines a paralegal as follows: A person, qualified by education, training or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation governmental agency or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible. A paralegal may work only under the supervision of an attorney and is not authorized to engage in the practice of law. Why Choose Paralegal Studies? A Paralegal Studies Degree or Certificate prepares students for careers in many legal fields, including bankruptcy, corporate, criminal, employment, entertainment, family, health, immigration, intellectual property, personal injury, real estate, sports, and trademark and patent law. Paralegals work in a variety of environments such as law firms, hospitals, banks, courts, government agencies, corporations, real estate offices, non-profit organizations, and universities or colleges. Why MassBay? At MassBay, students can earn a degree or certificate, explore career options, and sharpen their professional skills. MassBay offers: Highly accomplished, diverse faculty and student body. Credits that transfer to many four year institutions across the nation. Internships and individualized career services. Flexible schedule: online, nights and weekends. Convenient location 10 miles west of Boston.

3 Paralegal Studies (Associate in Science - 62 credits) This program teaches students to prepare and draft legal documents, investigate and research legal issues, interview clients and witnesses, and render practical procedural assistance in law-related matters. This program combines business, liberal arts, and legal courses with the opportunity for hands-on experience in a law firm. Students also receive training in the leading edge computer technologies used in many law offices today. These technologies, including mobile and internet research and production applications, provide the legal researcher with immediate access to cases, statutes, administrative regulations, and numerous other authorities, as well as the capability for innovative document production. Upon successful completion of program requirements, the Associate in Science Degree in Paralegal Studies is awarded. Online Paralegal Studies (Certificate - 27 credits) The online paralegal studies certificate prepares students to work under the supervision of attorneys to prepare legal documents, investigate and research legal issues, interview clients and witnesses, and render practical procedural assistance in l aw-related matters. MassBay is excited to offer an entirely online Paralegal Studies Certificate program! Online courses allow you to receive a quality education with the convenience and flexibility to study at your own pace from your home or office. Our courses provide structure that will enable you to achieve your educational goals while our dedicated faculty will make sure you stay on track. The online paralegal studies program at MassBay allows you to receive the best of both worlds, an excellent and affordable education in an environment that is specifically designed to meet your needs.

4 Online courses include: Introduction to Paralegal Studies Family Law Real Estate Law Business Law Litigation for Paralegals Legal Research & Writing Criminal Law Upon successful completion of program requirements, the Certificate in Paralegal Studies is awarded. Transfer Option MassBay has an articulation agreement with Suffolk University which ensures qualifying graduates of our degree program the opportunity to be admitted and transfer qualifying credits into the Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies program offered at that four-year institution. Additional information and MassBay transfer opportunities can be found on the MassBay website: or by visiting the Advising Center on our Wellesley Hills campus.

5 Program Statement The MassBay Paralegal Studies Department seeks to educate students to become career paralegals who can perform effectively under the supervision of an attorney in a variety of legal settings and can adapt to changes in the legal profession. MassBay s paralegal programs and courses are designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes they need to become competent and ethical professional paralegals working in the delivery of legal services. Department Objectives Prepare for an ethically and socially responsible role in the legal profession. Develop the critical thinking skills needed to recognize and analyze legal issues and solutions. Learn the practical skills necessary to assist attorneys, including drafting legal documents and pleadings, interviewing clients and witnesses, preparing for hearings and trials. Receive training in leading-edge legal computer research techniques.

6 Paralegal Faculty Susan Maggioni, Ph.D., J.D. Chair, Department of Legal Studies and Government Assistant Professor of Paralegal Studies Wellesley Hills Office Paralegal Department MassBay Community College Campus offices that can assist you: Admissions Office (781) Advising Center (781) Financial Aid Office (781) Registrar s Office (781)