Paralegal (Legal Education)
Program Overview
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Location
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Tuition$3,537 - $8,122
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Program Length2 years
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Financial AidFAFSA Eligible
Program Description
The mission of Legal Education program is to offer comprehensive legal studies to all students interested in the field. This program has gained accreditation from the American Bar Association (ABA). Paralegals play vital roles within private law offices, government agencies, and corporations as part of the legal team. They handle a range of technical and paraprofessional tasks, such as client interviews and assistance, legal research and writing, effective communication, implementation of legal procedures, document preparation, support during judicial and administrative proceedings, representation in specific administrative hearings, completion of client projects, calendaring, and office coordination.
Degrees & Certificates
Degree:
Associate of Science – Paralegal (60-62 credits) – Tuition: $7,860-$8,122
The Paralegal program at Kapi‘olani Community College stands as the sole paralegal program available in the state of Hawai‘i. This program enables students to earn an Associate of Science degree in Paralegal studies. Moreover, the degree offers a smooth transition for students interested in furthering their education at the University of Hawai‘i-West O‘ahu, where they can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Public Administration. The BA program provides concentration choices in General Public Administration or Justice Administration.
Certificates:
Certificate of Achievement – Paralegal (27 credits) – Tuition: $3,537
The Certificate of Achievement Program is exclusively designed for post-baccalaureate students who are seeking careers as paralegals or aiming for positions that require excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills, along with a comprehensive understanding of law and legal procedures. It is important to note that the American Bar Association (ABA) mandates that students must already possess a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for this certificate.
Certificate of Competence – Legal Secretary (18 credits) – Tuition: $2,358
The Legal Secretary program is a flexible evening program designed to cater to individuals who are currently employed as secretaries or have recently graduated from secretarial programs. This program offers specialized office training specifically tailored to the legal environment. It is an open admission program, ensuring accessibility for interested individuals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field of legal administration.
Careers
Graduates of the Associate of Science (AS) degree or the Certificate of Achievement have diverse career opportunities in private law firms, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies as paralegals. Additionally, those who complete the Legal Secretary certificate may pursue positions as secretaries, office managers, clerks, or administrative assistants in law-related settings.
