Paralegal Studies Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Paralegal Studies Program at Atlantic Cape Community College to prepare students for entry-level positions in both the public and private sectors of the legal community. Students are taught both legal theory and practical legal skills in a supportive and challenging environment. The program is committed to enhance and encourage the critical thinking skills. Courses in our program also develop critical thinking, communication, computer and organization skills. Students are encouraged to pursue academic excellence, professional growth and high ethical standards.

Program Objectives

The objectives of the program are to educate, train and prepare laypersons to assist attorneys in their daily tasks and to economically and efficiently deliver these legal services in the private and public sector of the legal community. The objectives coincide with the Mission Statement of Atlantic Community College which includes responding to the needs of the community, providing superior academic, technical and training programs, encouraging the pursuit of lifelong learning and promoting responsible citizenship.

Program Goals

There are three fundamental goals of the Paralegal Studies Program:

  1. to enhance and encourage critical thinking, organizational and communication skills;
  2. to prepare students to enter the private and public sectors and assist attorneys in preparing legal work in the representation of clients.; and
  3. to promote the growth of the paralegal profession by providing attorneys within the community with graduates who have substantial training in the practical application of the law and legal procedures.

The purpose of this program is for training students to become paralegals and is not intended to be a program for training lawyers or administrators. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.