WHAT IS A PARALEGAL?



A paralegal is an individual who possesses skills, learned through education and training, which he/she then uses to assist attorneys in the practice of law. By using paralegals to assist in their practice of law, attorneys are able to help greater numbers of people with legal problems.

Although paralegals cannot give legal advice, set fees or argue in court, you will learn by browsing our website, that the opportunities for an individual who possesses a paralegal degree are endless!

In the law office, paralegals act as part of the legal team representing clients in many different types of litigation and legal problems. Paralegals are alsoemployed by corporations, banks, real estate and finance offices and the government, where they can experience an even broader range of job opportunities and challenges. In all employment venues, paralegals are highly valued for their ability to analyze, research and solve problems.

While a paralegal cannot give legal advice, set fees, or argue in court, paralegals serve a vital function in today’s society. Many individuals who earn a degree or certificate in paralegal studies continue their education, earning a Bachelor’s Degree and often, continuing on to law school.



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How will the PCC Paralegal Program help me get a job?



The most recent projections of the Bureau of Labor and Industry indicate that employment of paralegals and legal assistants will grow 28% between 2008 and 2018 which is considered to be a much faster growth rate than for most occupations. The Paralegal Studies program of Pasadena City College offers placement assistance by counseling students on resume preparation, interviewing techniques and job search skills and by hosting the annual national celebration of Law Day, in early May of each year, which allows students to learn about opportunities, services and programs provided in the law related fields through exhibitor presentations and highly-regarded speakers.

In order to prepare students for paralegal employment, the Paralegal Studies program is designed to contribute to the development of the paralegal profession by offering students quality education, focused skills, and the essential knowledge they need to be leaders in a highly competitive, professional marketplace.

PCC graduates are well-prepared to enter the legal workforce. PCC Paralegals receive education and training that allow them to:

  • Meet and communicate with clients, attorneys, judges, investigators and other court and legal personnel
  • Perform factual and legal research on behalf of their clients
  • Draft correspondence and court documentsCreate, organize, and maintain client files Summarize medical records and depositions
  • Analyze and form solutions to client problems
  • Use technology to further client representation Prepare and assist at trial Assist in managing the law office

Many different kinds of people make excellent paralegals. No special training or knowledge is necessary to enter the program, but a candidate should:

  • An interest in the law
  • Good written and oral communication skills
  • An outgoing personality
  • A strong desire to help others with their problems
  • An inquisitive nature
  • The ability to persist in searching for information and obtaining answers
  • Good organizational skills
  • The ability to work both independently and as part of a team


PCC paralegal graduates are currently employed throughout Los Angeles County and other parts of California.



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