A student dressed in business casual attire seated at a table, attentively looking at a speaker off-camera, with the scale of justice visible nearby.

Paralegal Technology

A.A.S.
Certificate
Diploma
High School Option

Be a Vital Member of Any Legal Team

Paralegals play a crucial role in the success of any legal team. They are the backbone that supports attorneys by handling a wide range of tasks, from conducting legal research and drafting documents to organizing case files and communicating with clients. By taking on these responsibilities, paralegals make the entire team more efficient and effective.

In addition to their administrative support, paralegals also serve as essential links between clients and the legal team. They often handle client intake, answer questions, and keep clients updated on the progress of their cases.

If you are ready to be a legal rock star and serve as a lawyer’s right hand, this is the career field for you.

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The Program Options

1 Year 18 Credit Hours
As a student in this two-semester program, you will focus on those areas of the law where paralegals are most in demand. You will learn substantive law in the areas of real property, family law, corporate law, and wills, trusts and estates. You will also learn practical skills such as how to perform legal research and writing and assist attorneys in preparing for courtroom litigation.  

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1.5 Years 39 Credit Hours
In addition to the courses offered in the certificate program, you will take advanced courses in substantive law, such as Real Property II, Civil Litigation II and Legal Research and Writing II. You will also take some general education credits. If you wish to further your education and earn a degree, credits earned in the Paralegal Technology diploma will also transfer easily into South Piedmont’s Paralegal Technology Associate Degree.    

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 18 Credit Hours
This pathway offers foundational knowledge in legal research, civil injuries, and family law. This option is ideal if you are interested in supporting legal professionals and working in various legal settings.

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

Unweighted GPA of 2.8

1 Year 17 Credit Hours
This two-semester certificate is ideal if you are wanting to explore both criminal and civil law. You will deepen your understanding of American law, and you can expand your knowledge by transitioning into a two-year degree in paralegal technology or in criminal justice upon completion of the certificate. 

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 17 Credit Hours
Expand your legal expertise with courses in criminal law, constitutional law, and civil litigation. This pathway is designed for those who want a deeper understanding of legal studies and support roles within the legal field.

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

2 Years 69 Credit Hours
Our Paralegal Technology associate’s degree program gives you the skills necessary to assist attorneys in a variety of settings. Paralegals work in private law firms, business organizations, governmental agencies and more. Paralegals perform substantive legal work and legal tasks under the supervision of attorneys. Students who complete their degree are eligible to take the North Carolina State Bar Paralegal Certification Exam. 
(A paralegal may not practice law, give legal advice, or represent clients in a court of law.)

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

Endorsed


South Piedmont’s Paralegal Technology program is endorsed by the American Association for Paralegal Education.

Qualified


South Piedmont’s Paralegal Technology program is a qualified paralegal studies program of the North Carolina State Bar.

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This program offers six options, including a degree, diploma, certificate and CTE pathways for high school students.

Paralegals are Key to Any Legal Practice

Paralegals keep individual cases and entire legal practices running smoothly. This field is a great fit for students who are interested in the law, skilled communicators, detail-oriented, able to juggle multiple tasks at once, and who feel passionately about helping others.

South Piedmont’s instructors are former attorneys with extensive experience in the legal field. They will ensure that you receive real-world insights and perspectives during your program.

Main Building on South Piedmont's OCH Campus.
Photo of South Piedmont Paralegal Technology student Cassandra Bain.

A Rewarding Career With Work-Life Balance

Being a paralegal satisfies my lifelong desire to work in the legal field, but at the end of the day, when I leave the office, I don’t have to take it home with me. That’s something a lot of attorneys don’t get to do; they’re working around the clock. I still have that work-life balance that’s so important.

Cassandra Bain, Paralegal Technology graduate who works at a local law firm

Paralegal FAQ

As a South Piedmont Paralegal Technology student, you will learn about civil litigation, commercial law, corporate law, criminal law, estates, family law, investigations,
legal document drafting and filing, legal ethics, legal research and writing, office management, personal injury law, probate, public records searches, real estate, trusts, and wills.

You will be prepared to perform the duties of an entry-level paralegal in a law firm or other work setting. You will be proficient in the foundational concepts of the practical areas of the law that are covered in the Paralegal Technology program. You’ll be able to demonstrate knowledge of the legal and ethical rules and concerns of the practice of law. You will be ready for immediate job opportunities in the paralegal field.

Yes. This program will equip you with a strong foundation that you can continue building on if you choose to complete a bachelor’s degree and then go to law school.

Get Ready for What Comes Next

Our SP | Career Connector will help you build your resume, prepare for job interviews, and even connect you to hiring managers in our area.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

Get in Touch

We’re excited to talk to you about your future and how we can help you reach your goals. Reach out today!