Paralegal Practice (Certificate)

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Posted Jul 24, 2026

Remote · US Internship

Est. $40K – $55K/yr

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Overview

This Legal and Paralegal Studies program offers an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree designed to prepare students for careers as paralegals or legal assistants. The program provides comprehensive knowledge of substantive and procedural law, practical skills, and ethical training necessary to support legal professionals in various settings.

Program Details

Degree: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Legal and Paralegal Studies
Certificate: Paralegal Practice Certificate (available to students with an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree)
Duration: Approximately two years full-time
Start Terms: Fall and Spring
Delivery: Combination of online and virtual courses, allowing remote completion
Campus: MCC-Penn Valley

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Curriculum Highlights

Fundamental courses including legal research, legal writing, and ethics
Electives covering areas such as litigation, family law, torts, contracts, and more
Internship course providing hands-on experience under supervision of a lawyer or judge
Access to legal research tools like Westlaw and LexisNexis

Skills Developed

Legal research and writing
Use of modern legal technology
Practical experience simulating law firm tasks
Understanding and application of ethical standards for paralegals

Paralegal Practice Certificate

Focuses on core knowledge and skills for paralegals
Includes elective courses in various legal specialties
Designed for students who already hold an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree

Application Information

Fall Start Application Period: April 1 to June 30
Spring Start Application Period: July 1 to October 15 (preferential admission), final deadline November 30
Early applications receive priority; applications accepted until program seats are filled

Admission Process

Applicants will be contacted upon acceptance
Students completing prerequisite courses should still apply by deadlines
Accepted students will coordinate next steps with the program coordinator
Students not accepted should consult a Student Success Advisor

Career Outlook

Paralegal and legal assistant roles are projected to grow 14% from 2021 to 2031, faster than average
Paralegals work in law firms, courts, government agencies, and various legal fields including litigation, criminal law, family law, contracts, bankruptcy, intellectual property, real estate, and immigration

Typical Paralegal Responsibilities

Investigating case facts
Interviewing witnesses and obtaining affidavits
Conducting legal research
Assisting in preparing legal arguments
Drafting pleadings, motions, contracts, and other legal documents
Preparing for closings, hearings, trials, and meetings
Organizing and managing case files

Desired Paralegal Skills

Attention to detail
Strong writing and communication abilities
Knowledge of legal terminology and research techniques
Proficiency with legal research and litigation support software
Commitment to ethical standards
Professionalism and courtesy

Note: Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law.

Transfer Opportunities

The program supports credit transfer to many four-year colleges and universities through established agreements. Students are encouraged to consult advisors for transfer planning.