Noncredit Legal Programs at SMU

Build Practical Expertise for Today’s Fast-Paced Legal Environment

Whether you wish to join the legal field or to expand your skillset with a recognized credential, SMU Continuing and Professional Education (CAPE) offers accessible, career-focused training to help you succeed. Our legal programs combine expert instruction with real-world skills that employers value — from legal research and writing to bilingual communication in legal settings.

If you're ready to take the next step on your legal career path, these programs can be your next strategic move.

Explore Our Legal Programs

  • Paralegal walking down the hallway

    Paralegal Studies Certificate

    Gain the knowledge and skills needed to work in law firms, corporate legal departments and government agencies while earning a certificate from SMU.

    • Taught by licensed, practicing attorneys and paralegals who want to see you succeed
    • Covers legal research, writing, civil and criminal procedure, contracts, technology and more
    • Offered live online or in person and designed for working adults
    • Career-focused with practical case studies and assignments

    View the Paralegal Certificate

  • Legal Spanish client meeting

    Spanish for Legal Professionals

    Bridge the language gap in the legal system. This program helps legal professionals develop Spanish language skills specific to legal contexts.

    • Learn vocabulary for interviews and legal documents
    • Build cultural competence for serving Spanish-speaking clients
    • Online format designed to help build confidence communicating in Spanish
    • Ideal for attorneys, paralegals, other legal professionals or individuals working with Spanish-speaking populations on legal or immigration issues

    Explore the Program

  • Family law meeting

    Family Law Concentration

    Prepare to make a meaningful contribution in one of the most dynamic and impactful areas of legal practice, family law. This comprehensive program equips current and aspiring paralegals with the foundational knowledge, procedural expertise, and practical skills necessary to support attorneys in family law settings.

    • Explore essential topics, including marital property rights, child custody matters such as conservatorship, child support calculation, and the legal processes for divorce, adoption and termination of parental rights
    • Learn how to draft pleadings and discovery, assist in pre-trial planning and navigate each step of the family law case lifecycle
    • Designed for current and aspiring paralegals
    • In person

    Take the Course

Who Should Enroll?

Our legal programs are ideal for:

  • Professionals looking to advance their legal skills
  • Legal support staff who want formal training or a credential
  • Bilingual professionals working in legal, immigration or client-facing roles
  • Attorneys and other legal professionals looking to enhance their Spanish language skills
  • Those interested in pursuing admission to law school
Students in legal programs

“The program has helped impact my career. I am [now] able to help Spanish-speaking clients on a level that I was not able to do previously.”

—Stephen Le Brocq, Spanish for Legal Professionals student

“The SMU CAPE Paralegal Studies program has played a vitally important role in kickstarting my career as a paralegal.”

—Lindy Duffney, Paralegal Studies student

Why Choose SMU CAPE for Legal Training?

As a leader in technology and professional education, SMU Continuing and Professional Education programs combine academic rigor with practical, career-ready skills. Our noncredit legal programs are taught by experienced faculty and industry professionals who bring real-world insights into every session.

  • Gain practical skills in legal research, writing, and litigation
  • Grow your network by connecting with classmates and instructors
  • Flexible formats for working adults
  • Designed for aspiring and established legal professionals

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SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate provides a good foundation of legal knowledge as you enter into the profession.

Step Into the Legal Field with Confidence

Whether you’re preparing for your first legal role, advancing to the next level as a paralegal or aiming to improve communication with Spanish-speaking clients, SMU CAPE has a program designed to meet your needs. Taught by experts and backed by SMU’s reputation, our legal training gives you the edge you need in today’s legal workplace.