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Paralegal Studies

Idaho LAUNCH Eligible Program

Program Description

Paralegals, also called legal assistants, are an integral part of the legal team. Paralegals investigate facts, conduct legal research, interview clients, organize and analyze case materials and information, draft legal documents and correspondence, and generally assist in all phases of litigation. The Paralegal Studies program seeks to educate and equip students with knowledge and skills that will enable them to perform these tasks competently and effectively in a variety of legal settings. Paralegals may work in many areas of the law--civil litigation, bankruptcy, corporate, criminal, administrative, environmental, real estate, domestic, health care, employment, estate planning, and more. Courses in the Paralegal Studies program provide instruction in specific areas of law and practice in developing requisite skills.

Most paralegals work in law firms. There are also job opportunities for paralegals in government agencies, courts, legal clinics, corporations, banks, insurance companies, title companies, records centers, and other businesses where law-related work is performed.

Although they perform many of the same tasks as lawyers, paralegals do not engage in the practice of law or have clients to whom they provide legal services. They work under the supervision of lawyers, performing tasks that are delegated by a lawyer or for which a lawyer is ultimately responsible. Paralegals may work in limited areas where non-lawyers are authorized by law to assume certain law-related responsibilities.

Graduates Employed or Continuing Education Five-Year Average

97%

Average Idaho Income

$39,200 - $60,160

Program Overview

  • Program accepts students in August
  • Program admits 16 students each year

Program Technology

  • Westlaw legal research software to research the law.
  • Casemaker legal research software to research the law.
  • Time billing, and accounting software for law firms.

Degree Options

Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science (2 years)

Bachelor of Applied Science (4+ years)

Undergraduate Catalog

Career Opportunities

  • Law firms
  • Courts
  • Government agencies
  • Banks and insurance companies
  • Law enforcement
  • Corporate legal departments
  • Educational institutions
  • Self employment

Minimum Test Scores

SAT Math: 360
ACT Math: 14
ALEKS Math: 14

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