ODW2623 – Stand Out or Fall Behind: Why Formal Paralegal Education Matters

Course Materials: Recording and PDF of the power point slides.

Description: Formal paralegal education is essential for developing the analytical, ethical, and practical skills required in today’s legal environment. This session will explore how structured academic programs enhance professional competence, improve client service, and strengthen the credibility of the paralegal profession. Attendees will gain insight into the correlation between education and career advancement, as well as strategies for advocating for formal training within their organizations. By emphasizing quality education, we empower paralegals to meet evolving legal standards and contribute meaningfully to the justice system.

Presenter Biography: Antoinette France-Harris has been a licensed attorney since 1998. In 2010, she transitioned to academia, joining Atlanta Technical College as a full-time instructor in Paralegal Studies and as Department Chair. In 2014, she joined Clayton State University as an Assistant Professor and has since been promoted to Professor and Program Coordinator for Legal Studies. She has published two textbooks: Georgia Wills, Trusts, and Estate Administration, 2d ed. (2025), and Fundamentals of Georgia Family Law (2023). She holds a BS from Harvard University, an MSW from Columbia University, and a JD from the University of Pennsylvania Law School.