Program Code: PAR.S.AAS • Credit Hours: 61
Description
The Legal Studies program educates students with practical assignments in a simulated law office environment. All student work models the professional, ethical and technology concepts they will use in the legal field. Student learning is supported by experienced paralegals who serve as team teachers. All legal studies students are required to complete an attorney-supervised internship for hands-on experience using their paralegal skills.
Classes are taught in a simulated law office environment that makes current practices and technology available to students. All full-time faculty in the Legal Studies program are licensed attorneys. Legal research is conducted by students both online and in professional law libraries. All students produce a personal portfolio of their legal work and benefit from an internship experience under the supervision of a licensed attorney.
A grade point average of 2.0 is required to enter the Paralegal program. A grade of “C” is required in all PAR courses. An overall grade point average of at least 2.0 is required to continue in the program, and is required for graduation. Students must take at least nine credits of the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction.
Accreditation
The Legal Studies Program is approved by the American Bar Association, and fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), a specialized accreditation recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. All full-time faculty in the Legal Studies Program are licensed attorneys. Sinclair is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs of study are approved by the Ohio Board of Regents. Completion of the Legal Studies Program does not authorize a graduate to practice law as an attorney, or to give legal advice.
Career Opportunities
Graduates may find work in large and small law firms, the business world, courts and government agencies. Under the supervision of a lawyer, a professional paralegal may perform such interesting duties as investigating cases, interviewing clients and witnesses, preparing legal documents and legal research. These responsibilities are carried out in a variety of legal fields, such as criminal law, probate, family law, litigation and real estate.
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