Paralegal
Cascade TH 109 | 503-978-5212 | FAX: 503-978-5102 | Faculty Chair: Jerry Brask
Students in new PCC law library
Paralegals provide critical and integral support to lawyers, corporations, public institutions and other employers, and they have established themselves to be an indispensable workforce within the legal system since the 1960s. While paralegals may not provide legal advice without the supervision of a lawyer, they do perform many integral tasks in the day-to-day operations of the law
Different categories of paralegals offer specialized skills. A probate paralegal may interview clients while conducting the collection, valuing and transfer of assets. A corporate paralegal working within a large corporation may help write employee benefit plans, employment handbooks, agreements, or perform patent and trademark searches, and assist in intellectual property issues. A family paralegal may have a significant role maintaining client contact and helping clients sort through legal issues. A litigation paralegal plays an important role in case management up to and including trial. Whatever the role, the paralegal provides an integral part of the legal team. PCC’s Paralegal program offers a high quality education, providing you with the fundamental skills you need to succeed in today’s world of paralegal professionals.
Associate of Applied Science Degree
90 credit degree program. The primary prerequisite is a college level writing class (Wr 121), which is met by students who have a previous 4 year (and most 2 year) degrees. Advising and career development counseling is offered by the full-time faculty and career services department, providing students an opportunity to develop their careers in directions suited to their needs and interests.
Certificate
45 credit certificate program. See the AAS degree section above for information on prerequisites and advising.
New Program Developments
The Paralegal Program remains active and current by conducting surveys of potential employers, graduates of the program, current students and faculty to obtain feedback. Through consultation with the Program’s Advisory Council, program developments are implemented which enhance the student’s educational and career development experience, such as:
- New courses
- Law library installed at Cascade campus during summer, 2006
- Student-run paralegal club - visit their Yahoo! group
- Supplemental programs
The program works to maintain links with local law firms and corporations to ensure information about job openings, training needs and professional developments.
What's Next?
- Meet with Dept. Chair or an Advisor. (Formal admission into the program is not required.)
- Apply for admission to PCC.