Tri-C Paralegal Studies Program Celebrates 25 Years

Celebrating its 25th year, the Paralegal Studies Program at Cuyahoga Community College’s Western Campus on Pleasant Valley is the oldest American Bar Association-approved paralegal program in Cuyahoga County. Tri-C paralegal graduates work in a wide variety of settings, including large law firms, solo practices, businesses, hospitals, and in government offices. 

Two different tracks, one resulting in an Associate degree in Applied Business, and one that awards a Certificate to students who have previously earned a degree, provide specialized legal training to future paralegals ranging in age from 16 to 60. The coursework combines “hands-on” performance of paralegal tasks, coupled with the study of legal principles and procedures, and prepares students to “hit the ground running” in a Practicum (an internship), and as part of a legal team.

Students are required to learn procedures, research techniques, legal ethics, and appropriate technology. They may elect to learn about a variety of legal specialties, such as criminal or family law, probate, estate planning, bankruptcy, immigration law, intellectual property, or workers’ compensation. They become familiar with contract, tort and property law by drafting representative documents.

Law firms or organizations that can utilize students for the 150 hours of unpaid, supervised legal work should contact Candice Storey, the Paralegal Studies Program Manager. Students must complete an Introduction to the Legal Profession course, which is offered each term, prior to acceptance into the program. If you are seeking an entry level legal position, or are ready to advance your legal career, contact Candice Storey at (216) 987-5112. Check out our website at http://www.tri-c.edu/programs/paralegal/.