A.A.S. Degree Legal assistants support attorneys in their professional responsibilities in private practice or governmental agencies. They research and analyze the law and gather and compile data. Legal assistants use their training in legal specialty areas to prepare appropriate forms and documents, organize files and trial notebooks, conduct fact-finding investigations, interview witnesses, and understand legal principles and theories.
Legal assistants are knowledgeable of law office functions, policies, and procedures.
They are proficient in using computers for legal applications, including legal research. Legal assistants operate under the direct supervision of attorneys and are subject to prohibitions against laypersons practicing law. Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded the Associate of Applied Science degree. The Legal Assisting program often has a waiting list for admittance. Interested persons are encouraged to apply one year prior to anticipated school attendance.