May 08, 2024  
Dallas College Catalog 2024-2025 
  
Dallas College Catalog 2024-2025

Paralegal A.A.S.

Location(s): El Centro


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Note: This program may lead to an occupational license for which a prior criminal history may make a student ineligible. For more information, please visit: https://www.dallascollege.edu/hb1508.

(Associate of Applied Science Degree)

El Centro campus only

  • Students pursuing this award program are required to meet Texas Success Initiative (TSI)  standards and course prerequisites.
  • Complete at least 25% of the credit hours required for graduation through instruction by Dallas College.

Degree Plan Code: AAS.PARALEGAL.10

The Paralegal Studies Program is an Associate of Applied Science Degree program designed to prepare the student to function as a technically qualified assistant to the lawyer.

Upon completion of the program, graduates should be able to accomplish these program goals:

  1. Demonstrate the ability to comprehend, apply, and evaluate information in various substantive areas of law.
  2. Demonstrate the ability to draft legal documents with minimum supervision.
  3. Demonstrate written and oral communication skills, teamwork, critical thinking, computer proficiency, and legal research relevant to their work as a paralegal.
  4. Demonstrate the ability to integrate legal theory and related practical applications.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to manage practical ethical dilemmas commonly encountered by working paralegals including how to avoid the unauthorized practice of law by non-lawyers.

Paralegals (also called legal assistants) typically work in law firms, governmental agencies, corporations, and other business entities. The program does not qualify a graduate to take a State Bar exam, represent clients in court, give legal advice, or provide independent legal services.

YEAR 1


YEAR 2


Minimum Hours Required: 60 Credit Hours


Electives


Note(s)


NOTE: Students must complete courses in Prerequisite Semesters I and II prior to enrolling in LGLA 2331 .

1 Students are required to have a paid legal position prior to the beginning of the semester. The course offers college credit for legal work experience and lectures to aid in career development or advancement.

NOTE: Students enrolling in this program who plan to transfer to a four-year institution should consult an advisor or counselor regarding transfer requirements and the transferability of these courses to the four-year institution of their choice.

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