Certificate of Completion in Legal Secretary

Division of Social Sciences — Curriculum Code: 3209

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Certificate of Completion

Why become a Legal Secretary?

This certificate of completion program prepares students for employment opportunities as legal secretaries in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, banks, legal aid societies, and federal and state courts. The program teaches students basic legal principles, legal terminology, and business writing and provides a broad background in legal office management. Students also develop skills in clerical, technical, and administrative areas.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses?

Based on your placement test scores, you may have to take developmental courses in reading, English, and/or mathematics before taking the core curriculum courses in your major.

How long will it take for me to complete this program?

If you do not need developmental course work and you register for an average of 11 credits each semester, you may complete the certificate of completion in three semesters.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-3250.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Explain the role of a paralegal and a legal secretary in today’s legal system and in a legal organization;
• Demonstrate knowledge of the American legal system and the fundamentals of the litigation process;
• Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of legal ethics and of the Model Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility and Guidelines for Enforcement of the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc.;
• Demonstrate competent, proficient and professional performance of a variety of administrative and clerical responsibilities, including client contact, that are necessary to function successfully in a legal organization;
• Demonstrate problem-solving and critical, analytical thinking skills; and
• Communicate effectively with accurate legal terminology in written and/or oral form, with a demonstrated proficiency in the use of technology.

NOTE: This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.