Paralegal Studies Certificate

Area of Study: Paralegal Studies 
Degree/Certificate: Post-Degree Professional Certificate 

Contact the Financial Aid office regarding certificate eligibility.

This certificate program is designed for students who already have earned an associate or bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. The Paralegal Studies program at Cuyahoga Community College educates students to serve as paralegal professionals and work independently in the legal field under the supervision of attorneys. Students receive a general legal education with coursework in civil procedure, legal research and writing, computer-assisted legal research and various  specialty areas.

Graduates are prepared for careers in business, industry or in nonprofit corporations that interface with the legal system. Typical employers include law firms; insurance companies; local, state and federal government; title companies; banks; and corporations.

Paralegals organize and manage workflow in law office settings, draft legal documents, research and draft legal memoranda, and prepare attorney billings. They conduct background checks, interview clients and pursue factual investigations for employers. Paralegals may prepare witnesses for depositions and for trial. They organize client files and generally maintain client relationships. Paralegals may serve as employer liaisons to businesses, the police, other attorneys, government officials and the courts. Paralegals cannot accept a case, set fees, give legal advice or represent a client in court. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.
 
This is an American Bar Association (ABA) approved program.

Please note: Students must apply and be accepted into the Paralegal Studies certificate program. Being accepted to the College does not guarantee acceptance into any program. Call 216-987-5113 for details.