Paralegal ProgramWelcome to the Mt. SAC Paralegal Program! We have been preparing students for entry-level paralegal positions for over twenty-five years. Our program will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a paralegal. You will learn how to conduct legal research, draft legal documents, and become proficient at using technology required in the legal field.
We offer two paralegal program paths: a paralegal certificate and a paralegal degree. Both the Mt. SAC Paralegal/Legal Assistant Degree and Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). The paralegal certificate is designed for students who have previously completed a two-year or four-year degree. The paralegal degree is designed for students who have not yet obtained a two-year or four-year degree.
Our paralegal courses are offered in asynchronous (fully online), synchronous remote (class meetings via Zoom), and in-person synchronous formats. The ABA requires students to take at least nine semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction. To comply with the nine synchronous semester credit requirement, we offer PLGL 31, 32, and 33 in a synchronous format only, through either remote synchronous online Zoom instruction or in-person on campus.
California Business & Professions Code § 6450 defines “paralegal” in California. A paralegal is qualified by education, training, or work experience who performs substantial legal work under the direction and supervision of an active member of the State Bar of California or other entity authorized under California law. California Business & Professions Code § 6451 prohibits a paralegal from providing legal advice or engaging in conduct that constitutes the unauthorized practice of law.
Our program also offers an eDiscovery and Litigation Support Certificate, which is a separate and distinct certificate, and does not prepare students for a career as a paralegal. The eDiscovery and Litigation Support Certificate is not approved by the ABA, nor is it an approved program option of the paralegal degree or paralegal certificate.
Pathways
Why Mt. SAC?
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Approved by American Bar AssociationThe Paralegal Program at Mt. SAC stresses practical application and the development of job skills as well as legal theory. The program is designed to enhance the ability of students to reason, understand and apply correct legal principles by teaching analytical and critical thinking skills as opposed to rote learning.
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Affordable TuitionAs a California community college, Mt. SAC is able to offer students Paralegal courses at affordable tuition and simultaneously provide our students an opportunity to transfer to a four-year institution.
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Entry Level EmploymentThe Paralegal Program at Mt. SAC prepares students for employment as paralegals in both private and public sectors following graduation. Graduates of the program can work under the direction and supervision of an actively licensed attorney in the state, but may not work directly with members of the public without such supervision. Obtaining a paralegal degree does not entitle anyone to practice law or to hold themselves out to members of the public as being able to do so.
Our Professors
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Dr. Catherine McKee
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Dr. Abby Wood
Building 78-3190
(909) 274-5464
Abby Wood
