Paralegal Technology, A.A.S.

The Paralegal Technology curriculum prepares individuals to work under the supervision of attorneys by performing routine legal tasks and assisting with substantive legal work. A paralegal/legal assistant may not practice law, give legal advice, or represent clients in a court of law.

Course work includes substantive and procedural legal knowledge in the areas of civil litigation, legal research and writing, real estate, family law, wills, estates, trusts, and commercial law. Required courses also include subjects such as English, mathematics, and computer utilization.

Graduates are trained to assist attorneys in probate work, investigations, public records search, drafting and filing legal documents, research, and office management. Employment opportunities are available in private law firms, governmental agencies, banks, insurance agencies, and other business organizations.

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to:

1. Communicate effectively by listening, speaking, and writing.
   1. Write a research memorandum for an attorney’s review.
   2. Draft documents for review and use by an attorney during the pleading, discovery, and trial phases of civil litigation.
   3. Draft domestic law documents for the review of the attorney.
2. Identify, analyze, research, and evaluate legal issues.
   1. Use critical thinking to define legal questions, research them, interpret statutory and case law, and properly cite legal authorities.
   2. Distinguish between proper paralegal functions and the unauthorized practice of law, and identify the legal and ethical restrictions inherent in the practice of law.
   3. Research and summarize basic North Carolina civil, criminal, domestic, property, business, and estate law concepts.
   4. Assist an attorney in performing title searches and preparing residential loan closing documents.
   5. Complete the necessary forms for Chapter 7 bankruptcy under the supervision of an attorney.
3. Work ethically and effectively with diverse populations.
   1. Perform appropriately in a legal team, which includes attorneys, paralegals, and support personnel.
   2. Demonstrate integrity, persistence and time management in a beginning paralegal position with a private law firm, business, or governmental entity.

Technical Standards:

In addition to DCCC requirements and course objectives, there are professional standards that encompass communication, motor skills, sensory and cognitive ability and professional conduct that are essential for the competent study and practice of this program.  Paralegal Technology Technical Standards