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Paralegal Studies Diploma

PS12

Paralegals are trained to assist lawyers by researching legal precedent, investigating facts or preparing legal documents. They also conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action. Paralegals must be able to document and present their findings and opinions to their supervising attorney. They need to understand legal terminology and have good research and investigative skills. Familiarity with the operation and applications of computers in legal research and litigation support also is important. Paralegals should stay informed of new developments in the laws that affect their area of practice.

The goal of the Paralegal Studies Program is to train students in legal theory, analytical, communication and adaptation of skills. Paralegals shall not engage in the unauthorized practice of law as proscribed by the Official Code of Georgia, 15-19-51 and must work under the supervision and direction of an attorney in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia.

Diploma Requirements

Basic Skills (General Core) Courses - Area I

Language Arts/Communication

ENGL 1101Composition and Rhetoric

3

Basic Skills (General Core) Courses - Area II

Social/Behavioral Sciences

PSYC 1010Basic Psychology

3
or
PSYC 1101Introductory Psychology

3

Basic Skills (General Core) Courses - Area III

Natural Sciences/Mathematics - Choose One

MATH 1101Mathematical Modeling

3
MATH 1111College Algebra

3
MATH 1103Quantitative Skills and Reasoning

3

Occupational Courses

COMP 1000Introduction to Computer Literacy

3
PARA 1100Introduction to Law and Ethics

3
PARA 1115Family Law

3
PARA 1105Legal Research and Legal Writing I

3
PARA 1145Law Office Management

3
PARA 1140Tort Law

3
PARA 1125Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure

3
PARA 1110Legal Research and Legal Writing II

3

Select 6 Credit Hours From the Following Courses

PARA 1135Wills, Trusts, Probate, and Administration

3
PARA 1200Bankruptcy/Debtor-Creditor Relations

3
PARA 1205Constitutional Law

3
PARA 1220Intellectual Property Law

3
CRJU 1010Introduction to Criminal Justice

3
MGMT 2115Human Resource Management

3

Total Credit Hours: 39