The two areas of study for this topic-specific Specialist Program are Family Law and Juvenile Law. A required elective further sharpens your understanding of Family Law.
Family Law
Family law paralegals are in great demand, and can have remarkably rewarding careers. These paralegals are often the primary contacts between the law firm and client. There is no area of law more emotional than family law; thus, family law paralegals must learn to be supportive without becoming emotionally involved. Improve your communication skills, so you can help people through the legal processes of some of life’s most trying moments. Gain the knowledge to provide clients with every opportunity for a fair hearing.
Juvenile Law
Juvenile law has evolved into a combination of criminal and family law, with an emphasis on the unique and continually shifting process involved in the prosecution of minors. Paralegals are an especially valuable tool for lawyers who practice juvenile law as they often bring a more sensitive nature to client communication while still possessing the skills needed to assist in representation. Learn to deal with minors involved in a wide range of situations, from truancy to serious criminal acts, from delinquency to emancipation. This area of law can be stressful, but it can also be extremely rewarding. Paralegals entering this field should possess strong communication skills, and the ability to “leave the work at the office.”
Elective
Once you have begun this program, you will work with your instructor to determine which elective course fits best with your particular area of interest. You will choose one of the following electives: E-Discovery, Accounting and Tax Law for Paralegals, Legal Ethics, Laws of Evidence, Advanced Legal Research or Constitutional Law.