Paralegal Studies (A.T.C.) (4104)
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The Career
The American Bar Association defines a paralegal/legal assistant as “a person, qualified by education, training, or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.”
Paralegals and legal assistants are not permitted by law to give legal advice, represent clients in court, or set legal fees. Doing so is considered the unauthorized practice of law (UPL) and can result in civil and criminal liability. The Legal Studies (Paralegal Studies) program supports these ethical guidelines against the unauthorized practice of law by non-attorneys. The students in the program have extensive training in legal ethics.
Employment opportunities may include private law firms, courthouses, governmental or administrative agencies, non-profit organizations, corporations, and other legal environments. The program may provide a solid foundation for those considering law school in the future as well.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics continues to project growth in the employment of paralegals and legal assistants. For specific information, projections, and salary expectations, please visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Certification/Licensing
At this time, certification of paralegals remains voluntary in Florida. The Certified Paralegal (CP) credential is recognized in the legal community as representing the highest standard of excellence and professionalism. Students who successfully graduate from the Legal Studies (Paralegal Studies) program at Florida State College at Jacksonville meet the educational requirements to sit for the CP exam. The exam is administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants. For more information regarding the CP exam, eligibility and fees, please visit the NALA website.
If you are considering employment in a state other than Florida, click here to ensure the program curriculum meets the requirements to sit for licensure or certification testing in that state.