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Business Communications Office Technology: Legal Secretary

Cerritos College
Cerritos , United States
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Degree
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Major
Legal Studies | Paralegal Studies | Legal Services
Area of study
Law
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview

The Legal Secretary Certificate program at Cerritos College equips students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in entry-level legal positions. The program combines legal-specific courses with business and computer technology, emphasizing hands-on learning and practical experience through partnerships with local law firms. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as legal secretaries, legal assistants, and other roles in the legal field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Overview:

The Legal Secretary Certificate program at Cerritos College is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in law firms and other legal settings. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform administrative and secretarial tasks, manage legal documents, and assist attorneys with their daily tasks.

Objectives:

  • Equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as a legal secretary in a variety of legal settings.
  • Enhance students' professional communication, interpersonal, and critical thinking skills.

Program Description:

The Legal Secretary Certificate program is a 37.5-39 unit program typically completed in three semesters. It combines a blend of legal-specific courses with general business and computer technology courses. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and provides students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in simulated legal settings.

Outline

Program Content:

  • Legal Terminology and Procedures: Students learn about legal terminology, court systems, and legal research methods.
  • Legal Software Applications: Students receive training in legal software applications such as case management software, e-filing software, and legal billing software.
  • Microsoft Office Suite: Students develop proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Business Communications: Students learn effective communication skills for written and oral correspondence in a professional legal setting.
  • Administrative Procedures: Students gain knowledge of office management tasks, calendar management, and client relations.

Structure:

  • The program is divided into three semesters, with each semester offering a mix of legal, business, and computer technology courses.
  • Courses are typically offered in a hybrid format, with a combination of online and in-person instruction.
  • Students can enroll in the program on a full-time or part-time basis.

Course Schedule:

The course schedule varies depending on the semester. A sample schedule for the 2023-2024 academic year is provided below:

Fall 2023:

  • BCOT 60: Customer Service/Telephone Techniques
  • BCOT 96: Microsoft PowerPoint
  • BCOT 97: Microsoft Outlook
  • BCOT 112: Microsoft Word
  • BCOT 161: Principles of Filing
  • BCOT 162: Business Spelling and Proofreading Skills
  • LAW 56: Introduction to Computerized Legal Software

Spring 2024:

  • BCOT 146: Business English for the Digital Workplace
  • BCOT 152 or BCOT 247: Choose a course
  • BCOT 155: Administrative Secretarial Procedures
  • BCOT 248: Professional Soft Skills for the Workplace
  • LAW 101: Introduction To Law

Summer 2024:

  • BCOT 113: Microsoft Excel
  • BCOT 131: Beginning College Keyboarding and Document Processing

Individual Modules:

Each course in the program represents a distinct module. The specific modules and their descriptions can be found in the program's course catalog.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

  • Exams: Students are assessed through written exams, quizzes, and assignments.
  • Projects: Students complete various projects throughout the program to demonstrate their understanding of legal concepts and software applications.
  • Presentations: Students present their research and project findings to their peers and instructors.
  • Professionalism: Students are evaluated on their professionalism, communication skills, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Assessment Criteria:

  • Accuracy: Students are expected to demonstrate accuracy in their legal research, document preparation, and software application usage.
  • Comprehensiveness: Students should demonstrate a thorough understanding of legal concepts and procedures.
  • Critical Thinking: Students are expected to apply critical thinking skills to solve problems and make sound decisions.
  • Communication: Students should demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills.
  • Professionalism: Students are expected to exhibit professionalism in their interactions with clients, colleagues, and instructors.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

  • The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, case studies, simulations, and guest speakers.
  • The program emphasizes hands-on learning and provides students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in practical settings.
  • Technology is integrated into the curriculum to enhance students' learning experience.

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in legal studies, business administration, and computer technology.

Unique Approaches:

  • The program provides students with access to real-world legal scenarios through partnerships with local law firms.
  • The program offers a legal externship program, which allows students to gain practical experience working in a law firm or legal department.
  • The program emphasizes ethical and professional development, preparing students for success in the legal field.

Careers

Career Paths:

The Legal Secretary Certificate program prepares students for entry-level positions in a variety of legal settings, including:

  • Law firms
  • Legal departments of corporations
  • Government agencies
  • Legal aid organizations
  • Non-profit organizations

Potential Opportunities:

  • Legal Secretary
  • Legal Assistant
  • Litigation Support Specialist
  • Paralegal

Outcomes:

Graduates of the Legal Secretary Certificate program have a high job placement rate and are well-prepared to enter the legal workforce.

Other

Program Microcredential:

Students have the opportunity to earn a micro-credential in Legal Document Specialist by completing specific courses within the program.

  • The Legal Secretary Certificate program is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).
  • The program is offered at Cerritos College, a public community college located in Norwalk, California.
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