Paralegal
The Outlook
The paralegal profession has experienced dramatic growth since the 1960's as a direct result of the need for affordable legal services. The profession is one that is exciting as well as rewarding. Paralegals – although not attorneys themselves - assist attorneys in substantive legal work. On an average day, a paralegal might be involved in handling a real estate closing, interviewing clients and witnesses, drafting legal documents, performing legal research and conducting an investigation. All work is done under the supervision of an attorney and in compliance with strict ethical standards. By allowing a paralegal to handle such tasks, the attorney is available for other work and, at the same time, is able to provide the client with quality legal services at a lower rate.
The goal of the Paralegal program at Finger Lakes Community College is to provide students a quality paralegal education in order to prepare them to competently assist attorneys upon graduation. To this end, the Paralegal Program has sought and achieved American Bar Association (ABA) approval. ABA approval is a voluntary goal but one which signifies that an institution is providing the highest quality paralegal education. Further, the program is an institutional member of the American Association for Paralegal Education, which also maintains strict standards to obtain
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree
The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Paralegal degree program at Finger Lakes Community College is designed to prepare you for entry into the job market immediately upon graduation. The curriculum was developed in accordance with the American Bar Association guidelines and in consultation with area legal practitioners. View more information »
Certificate Program
The Certificate in Paralegal is designed for those students who already have an associate degree or higher college degree. The program is designed to be completed in 12 months. The courses will focus on legal theory, practical legal skills and instruction on the twenty-first century office environment. View more details »
