The career of a paralegal is one of the fastest growing occupations in the country and in Washington. Paralegals are trained to prepare legal documents, prepare clients for court hearings and mediation, conduct research and investigations, interview clients and witnesses, prepare probate inventories, help attorneys in litigation, and organize and index documents. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

In this exciting career field, graduates may be eligible for positions in a law office, legal department of a corporation, public agency, court system, private investigation firm, and paralegal services. The Tacoma Community College Paralegal Program is approved by the American Bar Association. The program offers both degree and certificate options to those interested in pursuing a career in the legal services field and providing services under the supervision of an attorney.

The Program’s mission is to aid students in becoming ethical, top-quality paralegals with the knowledge, flexibility, analytical, interpersonal, communication, and other skills needed to excel and succeed in a diverse and ever-changing legal profession. To that end, the program will help students develop a solid understanding of the concepts, terminology and regular tasks expected of a paralegal. In addition, the program will help students develop excellent research, critical thinking and analysis skills that will enhance their paralegal career for years to come.