Paralegal Programs in Santa Ana, CA

It takes between 18 to 24 months to become a paralegal in California. It’s critical to choose the right school to ensure that your journey is as hassle-free as possible.

It all ultimately boils down to research – and we have done precisely that for you. Let’s find out more about the paralegal schools in Santa Ana, California.

Paralegal Certificate, A.S. and Bachelor Degree Programs in Santa Ana, CA

There are many entry-level degree pathways to choose from. Students can opt for any of these to begin their journey. Regardless of the pathway you go for, remember a paralegal cannot directly practice law [1] and that certification is different from a license.

Paralegal Certificate (Post Baccalaureate)

This is the right program for you if you already have a baccalaureate. A paralegal certificate will cut down on the total time taken to start your practice as an assistant to a licensed attorney.

These programs focus on problem-solving, communication, critical thinking, litigation skills, and professional ethical obligations.
Universities provide these programs and these are generally ABA accredited while ranging from 3 months (full-time) to 24 months (part-time).
A baccalaureate is required.

Paralegal A.S. Degree Programs

Paralegal A.S. or Associate of Science is a 2-year degree that community colleges and universities offer. How does it compare against a post-baccalaureate paralegal certificate?

Aspiring paralegals often go for an A.S. degree. Pursuing an Associate degree is better than a paralegal certificate as it often doesn’t need a prior baccalaureate.
These programs are laser-focused on preparing you to start your paralegal practice and the coursework is incidentally highly relevant.
You’ll learn the skills of legal research, documentation, ethics, etc.

Paralegal Bachelor Degree Programs

You can pursue a career as a paralegal without a bachelor’s in paralegal studies. In fact, for a post-baccalaureate, you can have a bachelor’s from any field. An associate degree doesn’t even require that.

Nevertheless, a specialized bachelor’s in paralegal studies is recommended when you are in for the long haul. A bachelor’s in paralegal studies followed by a post-graduate degree in the same field will train you much better than any other pathway.

Paralegal Programs in Santa Ana, CA

Listed below are the top paralegal schools in Santa Ana. Read on for details on what the courses they teach.

Santa Ana College

Santa Ana College has an associate degree in paralegal studies. A good starting point, this program acts as your entry into the world of legal sciences.

Location: 1530 W. 17th Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706-3398
Program duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Degrees offered: Paralegal Associate, Paralegal Certificate (Post Associate)
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Payment plans and grants: NA
Prerequisites: Associate in Arts or Science or Bachelor of Arts or Science
Focus: Making ethical decisions, understanding legal concepts, effective communication, and legal technology.
ABA-approved: Yes
Website
Phone: (714) 564-6750

University of California Santa Barbara

The University of California, Santa Barbara has a paralegal studies program that is reputed as one of the best programs for entry into a law career in all of California.

Location: 2160 Kerr Hall, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106-1110
Program duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Degrees offered: Paralegal Studies Certificate
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Estimated tuition fees: $4000-$6000, +$150 for program application
Payment plans and grants: GROW funding available for North Santa Barbara County residents
Prerequisites: Bachelor’s Degree
Focus: Occupational competence, case planning and legal research, fact gathering, legal document analysis, etc.
ABA-approved: Yes
Website
Phone: (805) 893-4200

College of the Canyons

The College of the Canyons (Valencia campus) provides an associate in arts degree in paralegal studies. They don’t have any certificate programs. Credit swapping from other similar programs is fairly easy.

Location: College of the Canyons Valencia Campus, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Program duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Degrees offered: Paralegals Studies Associate in Arts
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Estimated tuition fees: $16,000 to $33,000 depending on residential factors.
Payment plans and grants: FAFSA or CADAA-based financial aid available.
Prerequisites: Bachelor’s Degree
Focus: Legal research, communication, and civil litigation.
ABA-approved: Yes
Website
Phone: (661) 362-5377

Resources:

1.California Business and Professions Code, Chapter 5.6 “Paralegals”