Legal Studies Academic Goals and Objectives

Further, “[a] legal assistant or paralegal is 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. (Guidelines for the Approval of Paralegal Education Programs, American Bar Association Standing Committee on Paralegals, Effective September 1, 2013 at page 3.)”

The overall program goal is the education, training, and development of students thereby fostering an understanding and appreciation of the law, ethical responsibilities, and practical training to enhance their personal and professional ability to adapt and grow with changes in the legal environment.

The goals of the Legal Studies Program reflect the prevailing ethical and educational standards established by the American Bar Association: to enhance competent and effective delivery of legal services to all segments of society. It is important to note that paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law. Paralegals work under the direct supervision of attorneys.

Legal Studies Paralegal Program Objectives

1. Provide opportunity for students to receive applicable training, practical skills, and necessary education to effectively contribute to the legal environment.
2. Prepare students to become an integral part of the legal team.
3. Enhance students’ understanding of their ethical responsibility and role under the supervision of attorneys.
4. Provide students with an understanding of the US legal system and sources of law.
5. Teach students active listening skills and effective written and oral communication skills.
6. Provide students with extensive instruction in legal research and technology offerings, including the use of electronic legal research databases.