Program Degrees and Certificates
- Paralegal Studies, A.A.S.
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The curriculum is designed to provide an individual with a sufficient level of knowledge, understanding, and proficiency to perform the tasks associated with meeting a client’s needs. These tasks can be performed by a trained, non-lawyer assistant working under the direction and supervision of a lawyer. A paralegal or legal assistant will have a basic understanding of the general processes of American law, along with the knowledge and proficiency required to perform specific tasks under the supervision of a lawyer in the fields of civil and criminal law. Occupational objectives include employment in corporate law firms, government agencies, and any of the varied law-related fields. Paralegals or legal assistants are prohibited by law from offering legal services directly to members of the public.
Students who complete the program become proficient in legal analysis, research, and writing. In addition, they improve their oral and written communication skills. Program graduates will have a basic understanding of the general processes of American law, along with the knowledge and proficiency required to perform specific tasks under the supervision of a lawyer in the fields of civil and criminal law. Paralegals are prohibited by law from offering legal services directly to members of the public.
Transfer is not the primary purpose of this credential; however, NOVA may have agreements that facilitate the transfer of this and other career-oriented programs to selected senior institutions. In order to learn more about possible transfer opportunities please visit: https://www.nvcc.edu/transfer/. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to discuss their options and plans.
Northern Virginia Community College accepts industry-standard certifications, credentials and/or professional courses for credit. Broadly, licenses, credentials and/or certifications must be current and valid for consideration. For more information regarding the status of the certification and its eligibility for credit, please see an advisor or faculty members in the discipline area that awards CPL credit.
Occupational objectives for students that earn the AAS degree in Paralegal Studies include employment in corporate law firms, government agencies, and any of the varied law-related fields.
Alexandria Campus
Dr. Steve Ward
Annandale Campus
Ben Wang
Loudoun Campus
Mitra Jahangeri
Manassas Campus
Cathleen Cogdill
Woodbridge Campus
Edward Zuniga