Los Angeles City College
Los Angeles City College (LACC) offers an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved Paralegal Studies Program designed to prepare students for careers as paralegals in various legal settings, including private law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, and non-profit organizations. The program emphasizes practical skills and a comprehensive understanding of substantive and procedural law, ensuring that graduates are equipped to perform competently, professionally, and ethically in the legal field.
The Paralegal Studies Program at LACC provides two educational pathways:
- Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in Paralegal Studies: This degree is ideal for students who do not already hold a college degree. The curriculum encompasses core legal subjects such as legal research, legal writing, civil litigation, tort law, and law office management. Students are required to complete a minimum of 60 semester units, which include both paralegal-specific courses and general education requirements.
- Paralegal Studies Certificate of Achievement: This certificate is tailored for individuals who already possess an Associate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution. The program focuses on paralegal-specific coursework, requiring the completion of 36 semester units.
Both pathways mandate that students complete at least 18 semester units of legal specialty courses in residence at LACC. The curriculum is designed to develop students’ abilities in legal research, writing, analysis, and the use of legal technology. Additionally, the program offers practical experience opportunities through internships and cooperative education, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world legal environments.