Paralegal Studies

The Paralegal Studies Program offers a 24 academic-unit certificate, intended to prepare students for employment as a paralegal in various legal sectors. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of the paralegal profession to enhance the ability to reason, understand and apply correct principles of law by teaching analytical and critical thinking skills.

The program is taught by attorneys and paralegals who have practical experience in the field and satisfies all educational requirements required by California law. As such, you will gain the legal knowledge and skills to land a paralegal job in any state.

How many courses are required to complete the certificate?

The program requires 8 courses to complete the certificate. See the program map or requirements. 

How long does it take to complete the certifcate?

Students are able to complete the certificate in one year.

Is the Paralegal Studies program ABA-approved?

The program is not ABA-approved (American Bar Association); after considerable research, it was determined that the benefits in offering an ABA-approved certificate did not outweigh the extra cost/time to our students. The ABA requires 60 units (versus the state approved 24 units) and most firms do not require an ABA-approved certificate. Moreover, California requirements are more rigorous than any other state, allowing students from our program to work anywhere. 

Memberships

Member, San Francisco Paralegal Association

   

Cheryl Mackey Membership

What is a Paralegal?
A paralegal is a legal professional who assists attorneys by performing a wide range of tasks that require legal knowledge. While they can’t practice law, they help gather facts, interact with clients, prepare court documents, and assist in investigations under attorney supervision. Their work allows lawyers to focus on complex legal issues while ensuring deadlines and documentation are met.

Key Responsibilities
Paralegals handle a wide range of tasks that require legal knowledge but not a law degree: 

• Drafting legal documents like contracts, pleadings, and reports 
• Conducting legal research to support cases 
• Organizing case files and managing evidence 
• Interviewing clients and witnesses 
• Fact-checking and summarizing depositions 
• Assisting attorneys during trials by managing exhibits and notes 

Work Environment
Paralegals usually work in: Law firms (small to large), Corporate legal departments, Government agencies, Nonprofits, or advocacy organizations 

Skills & Knowledge
To thrive as a paralegal, paralegals need a blend of legal expertise, technical proficiency, and soft skills that make them indispensable to attorneys and legal teams. This includes, but is not limited to, legal research, document drafting, familiarity with court filing procedures, deadlines, and jurisdictional nuances, case management systems, E-discovery platforms, document management, and cybersecurity awareness. 

Industry Impact
The paralegal industry has quietly but powerfully reshaped the legal landscape—acting as the unsung backbone of law firms, court systems, and advocacy organizations.