Overview
Narrative
The U.S. Department of Labor projects that this profession will continue to grow as fast as the average for all occupations. While paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law, the Labor Department's occupational outlook notes that employers are expected to hire more paralegals as they try to reduce costs and increase the efficiency of legal services. Northampton's student-centered learning approach to paralegal education will prepare you to enter this dynamic, high-demand profession.
Paralegals may not practice law or provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law. Northampton Community College Paralegal program's approval by the American Bar Association commenced in August of 2003 and will voluntarily end on January 1, 2023. This withdrawal does not affect the content, academic rigor or quality of the Paralegal program.
Features
The program offers numerous substantive legal courses and a required internship at a local legal office. You will learn how a paralegal working under the general supervision of an attorney contributes to the delivery of legal services. You will also learn how to master state-of-the-art computer software and hardware, and become a productive and efficient professional within the ever-changing legal profession. Most of the legal specialty courses (PARL) are taught by attorneys and incorporate pleadings, forms, and software used in local, state, or federal practice.
Graduates will be ready to accept positions such as paralegals, trust coordinators, title searchers, settlement clerks, or litigation specialists. If your quest for knowledge is not complete after two years of study, it is possible to transfer to four-year institutions to complete your baccalaureate degree.
Contact the Admissions Office at 610.861.5500 for further information.
Career Potential: Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Trust Coordinator, Title Searcher, Settlement Clerk, Litigation Specialist