Are you interested in how the legal system works? A career as a paralegal is an exciting choice for those who want to learn more about the law. Paralegals, under the supervision of attorneys, provide services in all phases of the legal system including courts, law firms, and government agencies. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law. If you’re ready for a fulfilling career in the legal profession, the Paralegal program at Northwestern Business College (NBC) is where you want to begin.
Upon completion of the Paralegal program, in addition to the general objectives, students will be able to:
·Understand and exhibit the expected ethical behavior.
·List and explain the steps involved in taking a case to trial by preparing pleadings and other litigation-related documents.
·Analyze and draft contract provisions and contracts which conform to legal precedents.
·Display the ability to independently research legal issues.
·Demonstrate the ability to perform various forms of legal writing and prepare legal documents.
·Demonstrate an understanding of the paralegal's role in the resolution of tort/personal injury matters by defining causes of actions, identifying the types and amounts of damages which may be awarded, and demonstrating proper tort research techniques.
·Exhibit judgement, comprehension, and analytical ability in categorizing legal data and issues.
·Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills.
·Exhibit computer proficiency and knowledge of computer software used in the legal profession.
·Perform, through an externship, paralegal skills necessary to work competently in a legal environment.
The U.S. Department of Labor ranks the paralegal profession as one of the fastest-growing occupations in the United States, and predicts its rapid growth will continue to surpass other occupations through the year 2014. The average annual salary for a paralegal ranges from $31,040 to $49,950.*
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 edition.
A career as a paralegal is an exciting choice for those who want to learn more about the inner workings of the legal system. Paralegals are in demand at a variety of organizations, including law firms, court systems, government agencies at all levels, corporations, non-profit organizations, insurance and health care companies, real estate title companies, and financial services organizations.
Northwestern Business College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, 30 North LaSalle Street, Room 2400, Chicago, Illinois 60602, (312) 263-0456, www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org. The Paralegal program is approved by the American Bar Association.
