Program Overview
The 45-credit Legal Secretary Diploma program prepares students for many specialized administrative support staff roles in the legal field and other areas of business. Coursework includes extensive training in the preparation and handling of legal documents such as affidavits, wills, pleadings, deeds, discovery documents, etc. The program stresses the importance of accuracy, productivity and ethical considerations in the legal environment while maintaining confidentiality. The Legal Secretary Diploma program may be completed in three semesters.
In addition to legal correspondence, attorney timekeeping, client billing, legal research and other day-to-day operations in a law office, the fast paced, high tech law firms of today require an advanced knowledge of word processing techniques. Students gather and process client data using both traditional and automated methods. Rapid technological development is requiring legal secretaries and legal administrative assistants to utilize word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation graphics software applications. Legal secretary and legal administrative assistant students explore these applications while developing proficiency on laptop computers. A laptop computer, leased from the college, is required.
Qualifications
Individuals possessing a strong interest in the legal business world and desiring a career in a professional office setting should consider the Legal Secretary program. Good spelling, grammar and keyboarding skills are essential. Previous keyboarding training or experience is recommended. Persons pursuing a diploma in the legal field should have a strong desire to share in the challenges of the day-to-day operations of working with a professional legal team.