Program Description
The Paralegal Studies program prepares students for assisting attorneys in the delivery of legal services. For almost 20 years, the program has not only prepared students with the substantive legal knowledge, but also the practical skills necessary to become a successful paralegal. Paralegals work in a variety of industries including technology, banking, manufacturing and entertainment. Dedicated, diverse and experienced instructors teach core general education and legal specialty courses including civil litigation, criminal law & procedure, family law, bankruptcy, real estate and contracts. In addition, students are trained in basic legal concepts such as ethics, research (both federal and local), drafting legal correspondence and the preparation & organization of legal documents for trial. All students are required to complete an internship. This experience provides practical, hands-on knowledge needed to get students ready to work as a skilled member of a legal team. Atlanta Technical College paralegal graduates work in government, private law firms and corporate legal departments throughout Atlanta. Upon completion of the program graduates, receive a Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science degree. The Paralegal Studies program is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (www.aafpe.org).
Unauthorized Practice of Law -According to the Official Code of Georgia 15-19-51, paralegals shall not engage in the unauthorized practice of law and must work under the supervision and direction of an attorney in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia.
Career Information
Occupation
Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Career Projections
The number of jobs in this field is expected to increase by 12.7% nationally and 14.2% in the State of Georgia over the next several years. Estimated salaries in this field start at $40,000 a year.
Labor market data was compiled using Economic Modeling Specialists, international and is updated annually.
Career Coach
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Admission Requirements
General College Admissions Requirements
Program Contact Information
Keisha Hudson
Program Coordinator,P2127
404.225.4534
khudson@atlantatech.edu
Program Length and Cost
Minimum Program Length in Semester Terms: 6 terms
Program Credit Hours: 69
Estimated Program Cost: $12,650
Course Outline
General Education Courses (18 Credits)
Area I – Language Arts/Communication (Both Required)
Area II – Social/Behavioral Science – Select two of the following
Area III – Natural Sciences/Mathematics – Select one of the following
Area IV – Humanities/Fine Arts – Select one of the following
Occupational Courses (42 Credits)
Occupational Electives – Select 2-3 from the following (minimum 9 credit hours)
Total Credit Hours: 69
Program Outcomes
1. The graduate will be able to utilize appropriate legal terminology in written and oral communication.
2. The graduate will be able to produce legal documents.
3. The graduate will be able to apply legal concepts to factual situations.
4. The graduate will be able to conduct legal research.
5. The graduate will be able to compose a legal argument.
6. Completion of the Associate Degree Paralegal Program qualifies a student to sit for the national certified paralegal exam offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants.