What is a Paralegal / Legal Assistant?

Paralegals, also known as Legal Assistants, assist attorneys in the delivery of legal services. Through formal education, training and experience, paralegals have knowledge and expertise regarding the law and legal system which qualify them to perform legal work under the supervision of an attorney.

The Paralegal concept began in the late 60's when law firms sought ways to improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of legal services. With the push for lower-cost legal fees, paralegals have established themselves as an integral part of the legal system. While lawyers assume ultimate responsibility for legal work, they delegate many of their tasks to paralegals.

Today, a Paralegal may perform any function delegated by an attorney, including but not limited to:

• Conduct client interviews and maintain general contact with the client
• Locate and interview witnesses
• Conduct investigations, statistical and documentary research
• Conduct legal research
• Draft legal documents, correspondence and pleadings
• Summarize depositions, interrogatories and testimony
• Attend closings, depositions, court or administrative hearings and trials with attorneys

By attending NYCI as a Paralegal / Legal Assistant student, you will immerse yourself in a range of Law classes such as Civil Litigation, Family Law, Real Estate Law and Tort Law. At the same time, you will also take core classes in English and Oral Communications as well as have the opportunity to take a variety of electives which will further prepare you to succeed as a Paralegal.

In all cases, the student is also taught to write a well-organized and comprehensive resume to aid in their securing employment.

Degree / Certificates Offered

New York Career Institute offers an Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) degree as well as a certificate program in Paralegal Studies.

Associate Degree (AOS) - Paralegal / Legal Assistant:
The objective of this program is to prepare the student for a position as a Paralegal / Legal Assistant. This course encompasses the core law theory classes, specialized terminology class, specialized legal classes, practical skills and an internship program. Successful completion of a minimum of 60 credit hours required for graduation.

Certificate - Paralegal / Legal Assistant:
The objective of this program is to prepare the student for an entry-level position as a Paralegal / Legal Assistant. Successful completion of a minimum of 30 credit hours required for certification.

Further, detailed course information can be obtained by contacting our admissions department at: (212)-962-0002

Career Opportunities

NYCI can provide Paralegal graduates with varied types of work opportunities; namely, with large and small law firms, government offices, banks, corporations and courts.

The emphasis on hiring Paralegals should continue in both legal and related fields and with over 100 paralegal organizations and over 85,000 paralegals nationwide, it is evident that the profession is projected, according to the Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook, to be one of the fastest growing occupations into the next decade.

Here's some additional information on the opportunities available:

Paralegal / Legal Assistant - Small Law Firms:
The Paralegal for the small law firm usually begins at an entry-level position and often stays with the firm for up to two years. By that time, the Paralegal has gained essential experience and skills which typically leads to a desire for a position with greater responsibility and higher salary.

Paralegal / Legal Assistant - Large Law Firms:
The Paralegal for the large law firm generally requires more qualifications and experience than with smaller law firms; however, with that comes a greater salary as well as opportunity for advancement. Large law firms may also offer medical benefits and continuing education assistance.

Paralegal / Legal Assistant - Corporate / Public Legal Service:
Paralegals working for corporations often assist attorneys with employee contracts and benefit plans, shareholder agreements, and stock-option plans. They also may help prepare annual financial reports, maintain corporate minute books, and prepare forms to secure loans for the corporation. Paralegals often monitor and review government regulations to ensure that the corporation is aware of new requirements and operating within the law.

Paralegal / Legal Assistant - Independent Contractor:
The Paralegal acting as an Independent Contractor offers his or her services to an attorney or corporate legal department for an agreed period of time and pay rate. Obviously, the main benefit of being an independent contractor is the ability to work flexible hours according to your own schedule. However, the independent contractor typically receives no medical benefits or paid vacation, and is also responsible for maintaining accurate personal income reports for tax filing purposes.