AA/AS in Legal Support Services

The Paralegal Studies Associate in Science prepares students for work as a paralegal, also called a legal assistant, under the supervision of a licensed attorney. It is offered at the Ybor City campus and online. Paralegals may research the law, develop cases, prepare legal documents and trial exhibits, analyze information, interview clients and help run an office. Completers are ready to attempt national paralegal certification examinations. The college states that graduates are guaranteed a place in a Legal Studies bachelor's offered by Florida Gulf Coast University or by St. Pete College. The first terms combine computer literacy and English composition with an introduction to the paralegal profession, legal writing and research, and tort or contract law. Later courses cover business organizations and family law.