Information

Where are Paralegals employed?

Paralegals are employed in law firms, in law departments of corporations, in government agencies, in banks, in insurance companies, and with the courts.

What do paralegals do?

Paralegals organize and manage the flow of work in law offices and law-related fields. They do background work for attorneys; research laws and/or court decisions; interview and prepare witnesses for depositions, cross-examination and court appearances. They prepare briefs, maintain files, prepare correspondence and draft documents. They assist an attorney in conducting business with clients, other attorneys, and the courts. Paralegals (or Legal Assistants) perform many tasks that an attorney does, in fact are able to do all things except advise clients, represent a client in court or bill for services.

What is the salary of paralegals?

Paralegals in Cleveland begin around $14 per hour or approximately $25,000 - $30,000 annually to start.  A typical Paralegal working in Cleveland with experience earns a median base salary of $44,768 according to analysis of data reported by corporate HR departments.  Half of the people in this job earn between $38,956 to $50,223 nationwide. 

How long is the program? Can I complete it on a part-time basis?

The program is a two-year (four semesters) sequence leading to an Associate degree of Applied Business. A one-year Post degree professional certificate is offered for students who have already earned an Associate or Bachelor degree. Many students take only two or three courses per semester, which increases the number of semesters to complete the program.

(back to top)What are the Paralegal courses like?

Throughout their study, students will learn commonly used words and phrases - the specialized vocabulary of the legal profession. Specific fields of law are introduced to the student, including Litigation, Business Law, Probate, Family Law, Workers' Compensation Law. Students are trained in legal research techniques, both traditional and computer assisted. The Paralegal Practicum (Externship) provides supervised work experience in a law firm or law-related setting in the students' last term of study.

How can I be admitted to Tri-C's Paralegal Studies Program?

Associate degree and certificate applications students are accepted each semester. All applicants are required to:

• Take PL 1000, Introduction to the Paralegal Profession course, and earn a grade of B or better,
• Complete the separate program application,
• Complete the narrative form,
• Take the Paralegal Critical Thinking Test,
• Complete assessment testing,
• Complete college level English (ENG-1010).

For more information or forms, contact the Paralegal Office at 216-987-5112, or visit us in person to Room C-245A.

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