Paralegal Studies
Certificate of Achievement Paralegal Studies · Chabot College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Description
The Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies is intended to prepare students for employment as a paralegal for various legal sectors. The Paralegal Studies program introduces students to the fundamentals of the paralegal profession to enhance the ability of students to reason, understand and apply correct principles of law by teaching analytical and critical thinking skills. Students examine the practical application of paralegal related job skills, including preparing forms and pleadings, interviewing clients and witnesses, legal research and document organization. The following is required for the Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies: a. Completion of a minimum of 24 designated units - the paralegal program at Chabot College meets the requirements of California Business and Professions code 6450. b. Minimum grade point average (GPA) of a least 2.0 in all paralegal-related coursework. c. All courses in the certificate must be completed with a grade C or better.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon the successful completion of this program, students should be able to:
- Develop the analytical thinking and professional skills necessary to work as a paralegal or legal assistant by an attorney, law office, governmental agency, or other legally related entity.
- Identify and apply correct principles of law and work effectively within the legal industry.
- Emphasize practical application of essential paralegal skills such as conducting legal research, calendaring, drafting legal documents and legal memoranda.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| PLGL 30 | Introduction to Paralegal Studies (Active) | 3 |
| PLGL 31 | Legal Writing and Research (Active) | 3 |
| PLGL 32 | Litigation and Civil Procedure (Active) | 3 |
| PLGL 33 | Computer Application and E-Discovery for Paralegals (Active) | 3 |
| PLGL 34 | Professional Responsibility and Ethics (Active) | 3 |
| PLGL 35 | Advanced Legal Writing and Research (Active) | 3 |
| PLGL 36 | Contract Law (Active) | 3 |
| PLGL 37 | Tort Law (Active) | 3 |
| orADMJ 60 | Criminal Law (Active) | 3 |
| Total | 24 | |
Other Information
Discipline: Law & Public Safety
Program Control Number: 38971
TOP Code: 140200 - Paralegal
CIP Code: 22.0302 - Legal Assistant/Paralegal