Purpose
The Legal Office Assisting Certificate is designed to prepare students for an entry-level position in a legal office setting. Students will gain basic skills in word processing, telephone reception, ethics, and professionalism. Specialized legal courses are complemented by several general education courses. The Legal Office Assisting Certificate is a milestone for students who plan to pursue the Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science degree.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate effective communication skills through interaction, in person, by telephone, in written and electronic correspondence, with lawyers, clients, witnesses, court personnel, co-workers, and other business professionals, using appropriate legal terminology and formatting.
- Utilize strong organizational skills necessary to sort through and manage information, manually and electronically.
- Apply ethical and professional principles that guide paralegal conduct, including but not limited to: unauthorized practice of law and lawyer supervision of non-lawyers; confidentiality and attorney-client privilege; conflicts of interests; competency; handling of client funds; office decorum and dress.
- Integrate appropriate skills to work effectively and positively with others beginning on the first day of a new job.
Employment Opportunities
The Legal Office Assisting program prepares students for a wide range of entry-level positions in the legal/paraprofessional field.
Program Requirements
An academic advisor will review your preparation in Mathematics and English with you. You’ll be guided to appropriate preliminary coursework to give you the greatest chance of success in this program.
For Further Information, Contact:
Beth Snodgrass
bsnodgrass@mecc.edu
276.523.9059
Jane Jones, Dean
jjones@mecc.edu
276.523.9057