Paralegal / Legal Assistant

Paralegal / Legal Assistant Programs at Delta

Interested in a career in law? San Joaquin Delta College’s Paralegal/Legal Assistant program is an excellent starting point.

All program courses can be completed online, on your own time, from the comfort of your own home!

Law firms, corporations, and governmental agencies hire paralegals/legal assistants to perform a wide variety of tasks under the direction and supervision of a licensed attorney. For example, paralegals investigate cases, interview witnesses and draft documents such as wills, contracts and court papers. As a result, paralegals must be proficient in computer skills, legal terminology and legal procedures. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 12 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.

San Joaquin Delta College offers an excellent program at extremely affordable prices. Two-thirds of students receive free tuition, and many other forms of financial aid and support services are available to help you in your journey.

Degrees and Certificates Pathway Maps

Certificate / Degree Name Requirements / Pathway Map 2024-2025
Catalog info
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies
Certificate of Achievement*
Link to Pathway Map Link to Catalog Details 
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies, AS Link to Pathway Map Link to Catalog Details

* Note: Students must have previously earned a bachelor's degree or an associate of arts or science degree to be eligible for the paralegal certificate. Those who do not meet this requirement can still pursue an associate degree in paralegal/legal assistant. Consult the catalog for full details.

 

 

Job Titles and Career Information
Legal Assistant

Similar Job Titles

Confidential Secretary, Coordinating Legal Practice Assistant, Judicial Administrative Assistant, Legal Administrative Assistant, Legal Administrative Secretary, Legal Coordinator, Legal Office Support Assistant, Legal Secretary, Magistrate Assistant, Secretary.

Description

Perform secretarial duties using legal terminology, procedures, and documents. Prepare legal papers and correspondence, such as summonses, complaints, motions, and subpoenas. May also assist with legal research.

  • Hourly $22.72 Regional
  • Salary $47,260 Regional
  • Current Employment 120 Regional
  • Job Growth -21.00%

Projections

This occupation currently employs 120 people in the region (Stockton-Lodi, CA). In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in the United States is expected to decrease by -21.00%.

Education

% of Respondents Education Level Required
19.00  High school diploma or equivalent
30.00  Some college, no degree
23.00  Bachelor's degree
Paralegal

Similar Job Titles

Certified Paralegal, Corporate Law Assistant, Law Associate, Legal Analyst, Legal Assistant, Litigation Paralegal, Paralegal, Paralegal Assistant, Paralegal Specialist, Real Estate Paralegal.

Description

Assist lawyers by investigating facts, preparing legal documents, or researching legal precedent. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.

  • Hourly $28.25 Regional
  • Salary $58,770 Regional
  • Current Employment 210 Regional
  • Job Growth 12.00%

Projections

This occupation currently employs 210 people in the region (Stockton-Lodi, CA). In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in the United States is expected to increase by 12.00%.

Education

% of Respondents Education Level Required
7.00  Post-secondary certificate
50.00  Associate's degree
34.00  Bachelor's degree