Center for Advanced Legal Studies

Review №1

Rating: 5

You will not regret attending CALS and furthering your education. I had an amazing time at CALS and I learned valuable information about the legal field. I received so much support from the career service and the administrative staff. Without CALS, I would still be struggling to find employment in the legal field. I owe a huge gratitude to Tami Riggs and Sarah Casey.

Date: a month ago

Review №2

Rating: 5

I am glad that I made the decision to attend CALS and further my education. Big shoutout to Tami Riggs who helped me tremendously and helped me reach my end goal of getting a job. I cannot thank her enough. CALS is a wonderful school and I would recommend it to anyone wanting to pursue a legal career. The staff was all very nice and professors helped you with anything you were struggling with.

Date: a month ago

Review №3

Rating: 5

I am glad I made a decision to attend CALS. I earned my paralegal certificate and my Associates. Currently waiting to enroll in their bachelor program. A big shoutout to Tami Riggs for her career services. Thanks to her I landed a job at a really good law firm.

Date: 2 months ago

Review №4

Rating: 5

I finally chose to go back to school to do something Ive always enjoyed: studying law. The CALS process was unique from start to finish; I obtained the knowledge and additional skills attending this school, which led me to get my Paralegal Certificate. With the help of Tami in Career Services, I got hired five weeks after graduation! (With consistency and discipline). I plan on returning to obtain my bachelor s to take the LSAT! I Thank God, for your assistance!

Date: 5 months ago

Review №5

Rating: 5

I am very glad I chose to attend this school! I earned my paralegal certification and learned so many great things. We even built a tight knit community. Tami Riggs is also very helpful and reassuring with the job search. I graduated in late March and got a job in April! If you are thinking about becoming a paralegal I highly recommend CALS!

Date: 5 months ago

Review №6

Rating: 5

CALS was a great course to learn and practice the many duties a paralegal has. The professors explain their courses well and work with you to make sure you understand the material and the assignments. Career service has been a great help for me in getting a job and improving in my portfolio. I definitely recommend CALS for anyone trying to become a paralegal.

Date: 7 months ago

Review №7

Rating: 5

It was a challenge in the beginning CALs really cares about students success. It was all worth it in the long run thank you CALs and staff.

Date: 7 months ago

Review №8

Rating: 5

Going to CALS has truly changed my life. From admissions all the way to the professors everyone was extremely caring and actually wanted to help. The admissions process was extremely smooth and went without a hitch. I highly recommend to get in touch with career services. Ms.Tami was a GREAT help. After graduating just a month ago I have received employment thanks to the help of Ms.Tami. A special shout out to Mr. Scheffer for being there when I was feeling a bit overwhelmed.

Date: 11 months ago

Review №9

Rating: 5

I learned so much from this school and they really piqued my interest in law. The professors are very knowledgeable and everyone here has a genuine interest in making sure their students succeed. Tami, the director for Outreach and Career Services has been extremely helpful In helping me with my resume, giving wonderful career advice, which has essentially led me to obtaining employment.

Date: a year ago

Review №10

Rating: 5

CALS not only taught me everything I needed to know to succeed as a Paralegal, but they also assisted me in my job search. I highly recommend CALS to anyone who is interested in Paralegal education.

Date: a year ago

Review №11

Rating: 5

Truly am grateful for CALS! I have been prepared for my career as a DRV Paralegal thanks to them and I am truly grateful and have no doubt that me continuing my education on to become an attorney! Thank you so much CALS. Tami was very helpful and wonderful to work with, and her help with landing me a job in under 2 weeks!

Date: a year ago

Review №12

Rating: 5

Great school! The staff is very polite and I had interviews set up before I graduated. Thanks to Tami of Career Services, I am now employed.

Date: a year ago

Review №13

Rating: 5

I do not regret making the decision in enrolling in this program! They helped me find a job even before graduation. It is totally worth it and I recommend it. The teachers are experienced lawyers with a lot of knowledge, and I can guarantee you will learn a lot from them. Additionally, the classes are online, which is a plus for those who have busy schedules.

Date: a year ago

Review №14

Rating: 5

As an adult working in the legal industry for over 20 years, going back to school was not an easy decision. However, it was a necessary decision I needed to make in order to elevate into a more challenging and rewarding position. CALS afforded me with the education I needed to make my goal a reality. As a bonus, their career services division counseled and guided me not necessarily to a new employer but, prepared me to step into new employment opportunities with my current employer. CALS staff professionals who are uniquely familiar with the inner workings of the legal field which affords newcomers as well as seasoned professionals already working in the legal field with their expertise in navigating through not only the course work but, career choices most fitting for each individual student. I congratulate each and every former and future student receiving paralegal education through CALS. I know for me, it was one of the best decisions I made for my career as a paralegal.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №15

Rating: 5

Going to CALS and earning my associates degree was one of the best things I did for myself. Once I figured out the career path I wanted to take I knew I needed the right education. CALS provided an excellent class schedule, overall great staff and amazing teachers that will leave life long impressions on me. With the excellent help of Tami, the director of career services, I was able to obtain the perfect paralegal position. I am a perfect example that it s never too late to switch things up and go after your dream career.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №16

Rating: 5

I had a wonderful career in Mortgage Banking, but it was unfulfilling. I needed a change and decided on becoming a Paralegal. I looked at many schools and decided on CALS, as they seemed to be the most comprehensive. I am so glad I did! I have recently finished and obtained my certificate and am continuing on for my Associates. The professors are knowledgeable, helpful and just overall fantastic. I was able to obtain employment in the same week I graduated for my certificate in the legal field. I highly recommend this school, as my experience is truly life changing.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №17

Rating: 5

They never fail to provide a list of candidates and are most helpful in hiring needs. Tami Riggs is a star.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №18

Rating: 5

Date: 2 years ago

Review №19

Rating: 5

Covid was a challenging year for everyone. After being laid off from my 16-year law firm job as a Word Processor, I investigated career paths in the legal field. I decided to study with the Center for Advanced Legal Studies to earn my Paralegal Certificate and earn my Associate in Advanced Legal Studies. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Experienced attorneys teach the course material in various fields, and you learn material that will help you succeed in a real-life law practice. The assignment and study materials are easy to understand yet challenging. The teachers go above and beyond to offer their assistance if needed. They will work with you, again and again, to thoroughly understand the course material so you may achieve your best grade possible. Tami Riggs, the Director of Outreach and Career Services, was great to work with. I sent her my resume, and she helped me update it to be more concise and current. She then submitted my resume out to a few firms. It took only two weeks, and I had multiple offers from multiple firms. I was in control of my future this time, and boy, did that feel good. I chose an excellent firm with full-time hours, good pay, and benefits. 2021 is going to be a better and successful year due to CALS and my hard work. Thank you, CALS, for all of your help!

Date: 2 years ago

Review №20

Rating: 4

The staff and admin are wonderful. Through my entire time there I think I only truly struggled with one instructor and that s because he was truly old school and you could tell. They were very understanding and you could reach out to them anytime. Ms. Tami Riggs is a great person to work with as far as getting you out there and into the job market. I finished school in September and I am employed already. Only after almost two months of finishing school. Communication is key so that she knows what your needs are. I m very excited about my new journey as a paralegal.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №21

Rating: 5

Tami Riggs from The Director of Outreach and Career Services was amazing to work with. Our law firm was looking to bring on two paralegals and she was helpful throughout the entire process. We look forward to working with our new team members as well as Ms. Riggs in the future. Again, thank you for all of your help.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №22

Rating: 5

The staff and instructors here have been absolutly amazing. They have helped me continue my legal career even after being out of it for nearly a decade and helped find employment. Would recommend the school for anyone who seeks a career as a Paralegal.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №23

Rating: 5

My firm was recently looking for a paralegal and I asked my sister, Sahar Grovas, who is a great professor at CALS, if she knew any students searching for a job. She immediately told me to reach out to Tami Riggs and I am glad I did. Tami has been a gem from the moment I contacted her. She is extremely responsive through email and on the phone. She was very open and honest about each student. She cared about what the student was looking for and what my firm was offering so she can help find the right fit. Tami has been so helpful and sweet during the entire process. She made me feel as though we have been friends for a long time. Anytime I have a question, she is there to answer it. Shes a life-saver. I am happy we have now built a good relationship and look forward to working with Tami and CALS in the future.

Date: 3 years ago

Review №24

Rating: 5

If you are seeking a paralegal career and to further your knowledge in the paralegal world, DONT THINK TWICE! CALS is literally the best school to go when pursuing your paralegal education. I met with amazing, very informative counselors, the registration process was very quick and easy, and the staff is very supportive. I was honored (since I was an on campus, day student) to be educated by Mr. Swanson and Ms. Ziemnicki. You cant be any luckier to be taught by 2 professional lawyers who have long and tremendous experience in the Legal field. I already accepted an offer for a job that CALS Outreach and Career Services has helped me get and even before I graduate my last semester. Thank you CALS for all the Education, help and support you provided me.

Date: 3 years ago

Review №25

Rating: 5

I am a CALS Alumni and have been working successfully in the paralegal field ever since my graduation from CALS. I am so glad I chose CALS for my paralegal degree. The staff and teachers were great and knowledgable. I recently needed to reach out to the institute to assist me with some requirements for a Court case and Tami and Sarah was willing and at the ready to assist me and were so supportive throughout the process. My sincerest thank you to the CALS team!

Date: 3 years ago

Review №26

Rating: 5

Date: 3 years ago

Review №27

Rating: 5

CALS was the jumpstart I needed not only in my career path but also in a time of personal growth. After a big career change, and as a newly single parent, I needed an opportunity that was supportive as well as intentional and guided. CALS provided me exactly that. From the moment I expressed interest, James Scheffer was there to answer any questions, as well as facilitate all of my next steps along the way. Mr. Scheffer was always there in person, via email, or by phone. The staff at CALS is always available. I enrolled in the Paralegal Certification program at CALS before we knew Covid-19 would become monumental. CALS handled this in stride. Administration immediately reverted to online courses. Eric Happe was instrumental in this entire process. Mr. Happe guided me through online courses expediently and with kindness and immediacy. Our instructors also transitioned very well. Mr. Swanson and Mrs. Ziemnicki are always available. This is consistent throughout the staff at CALS. Mr. Swanson showed up every day with the help of Maria Filanova. Ms. Filanova was always there regardless of the situation at hand. Mr. Swanson was tough but fair. His lectures and stories were a respite from his challenging exams. Mrs. Ziemnicki always has a story to share, as well. She is tough, she is challenging, and she will also be available anytime you need her. She is remarkable, to say the least. What I appreciate most about Mrs. Ziemnicki is her support for the students, her availability, and her care. Finally, with CALS, you are provided the opportunity for career outreach. Tami Riggs is amazing in this position. She is in the corner of each graduate and will not give up until she finds the perfect position for them. I cannot speak highly enough of her tenacity and availability. Ms. Riggs found the perfect position for me and my needs. This is what you get at CALS.

Date: 3 years ago

Review №28

Rating: 5

The school was very helpful in building my career as a paralegal. The certificate program at CALS helped me not only get a job as a paralegal but also intensify my legal knowledge.

Date: 3 years ago

Review №29

Rating: 5

I am getting ready to graduate in May with honors from the AAS Paralegal Program at CALS and have had such a positive experience. I am earning my degree online and as a busy working mom and grandma, I appreciate the accessibility and flexibility. The teachers do an amazing and thorough job, while the curriculum provides a solid educational foundation in Paralegal Studies. Dont get me wrong, its work, but the harder you work, the brighter your future. Everyone I have dealt with at CALS has been so pleasant and supportive. I want to say a big thank you to Sarah Casey, the schools Office Manager. She keeps us all organized and gets us the materials we need. Plus shes really, really nice. Eric Happe, the Director of Distance Education does a great job with keeping the classes rolling and I really appreciate his friendliness and accessibility. PRO TIP: As youre getting close to completing your certificate or degree, make sure you visit with Tami Riggs in Career Services. She polished up my resume, gave me advice on how to answer tough questions in an interview, encouraged me, and was sincerely devoted to finding just the right job for me. I havent even graduated yet but she sent me on an interview at a fantastic firm and I got the job! Thank you Tami. You are wonderful. Thank you CALS for helping me to realize my dreams and surpass my goals. This is an excellent school to gain the knowledge you need to become a paralegal. I thoroughly and wholeheartedly recommend it!

Date: 3 years ago

Review №30

Rating: 5

Center for Advanced Legal Studies was unlike any other education I have had before. The classes were small (so I was able to get one on one attention if needed), I got really close with the other students, and the curriculum was pertinent to learn how to become a paralegal. I learned a lot about the Texas Court system, Texas laws, and how to search up cases all over the United States. Even though that is just a glimpse, this was eight months well spent.

Date: 4 years ago

Review №31

Rating: 1

I wish that I could say that this was money well spent, but here I am three years after obtaining my Paralegal certificate from this institution, and am in no better position than where I was before beginning the program. What bothers is me is what appeared to be feigned concern that certain staff had for students, post-graduation. If I could do it all over again, I would keep my legal aspirations to myself, so I wouldnt be $10,000 in debt.

Date: 4 years ago

Review №32

Rating: 5

Being enrolled here has really helped my career path. The job placement staff has been so helpful. Eric Happe, Tami Riggs and Sarah Casey are my top Go-Tos. Always available with quick responses and have been understanding through all of the obstacles I faced but they worked with me to help me stay in school and made me able to continue and grow and succeed and for that, I am forever grateful.

Date: 4 years ago

Review №33

Rating: 5

I graduated their Paralegal Certificate program with a 4.0 GPA and I was able to obtain employment 2 1/2 months later in a law firm that actually pays me my worth with full time hours regardless of my availability. This is a great program and you can gain so much knowledge if you put the work in of course. When I had my interview for my job I felt confident and prepared using my project notebook that I created during one of my course not only did I show my skills but my employer was highly impressed as well. My background was only in restaurants and retail before I got my job now but I wanted to write this review to show that anyone within any kind of background you can change your life just by going to this school. Thank you CALS, I look forward to continuing my education with you to obtain my degree!

Date: 4 years ago

Review №34

Rating: 5

I had a good experience at CALS. The staff is kind and always helped me with any issues that I had, very supportive. You will find amazing experienced teachers in the legal field that will provide you with the knowledge needed to start a new career as a paralegal. Besides that, the career assistance is excellent and helped me to find a job. Thank you, Team CALS!

Date: 4 years ago

Review №35

Rating: 5

As an honors graduate of CALS, I would highly recommend anyone who is interested in becoming a Paralegal to look into attending the Center for Advance Legal Studies. The knowledge and skills that I acquired there has thoroughly equipped me in a successful career change into the legal field. The professors were great! They were very patient and comprehensive with the curriculum. CALS is flexible with campus and online classes. In addition, the Career Service assistance that they provide is OUTSTANDING! In my experience, they dont leave you to figure everything out on your own upon graduating. They assist you until you find a position that is suitable to fit your goals. However, you MUST do your diligence and remain professional. My experience was GREAT all around and I can proudly say that as a result, I am currently a Full-time Paralegal. Thank you CALS!!

Date: 5 years ago

Review №36

Rating: 5

Center for Advanced Legal studies has helped me grow and dive deep into my career. I appreciate Mr. Happy and Tami for helping me to not gain legal knowledge, they have also helped me land an awesome job opportunity. If you are considering going here. Take the chance.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №37

Rating: 5

I had a good experience during my 9 months at CALS. The teachers are fantastic and very informative. One of my favorites is Allison Mathis, she is relatable and knowledgeable. The only issue I had was in the computer class. I was unable to complete 3 assignments due to the operating system on my laptop (I have a MacBook). Other than that, I completed all other assignments with no issue. All in all, I gained a lot of useful experience.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №38

Rating: 5

I want to thank Center for Advanced Legal Studies and their staff for all their support. Every one was so kind, caring, and knowledgeable. Crystal always welcomed everyone with a smile :) and so did Mr. Happee. All the counselors were very informative and ready to assist new students and current students. I learned so much from my professors, Mr. Swanson, Mrs. Ziemnicki, and Mr. Wiedemer. I m so grateful I chose to become a paralegal. Center for Advanced Legal Studies changed my life for the better. I want to thank Tami in career services. She always went the extra mile to assist me with my career search. Thank you Tami for your continual support and advice. Thank you for always motivating me and keeping my spirits high. Thank you for helping me find my new career as a litigation paralegal. My kids and I are forever grateful!

Date: 5 years ago

Review №39

Rating: 5

I have enjoyed the 8 month Paralegal Certificate program at Center for Advanced Legal Studies. During this time I have learned the meaning of What a Paralegal responsibilities are and exactly what a paralegal does in great detail. The time was well spent, the classes are an appropriate length for the working class. As of this day, I currently have 2 career opportunities in law firms, that I will be starting this week, and that is due to the recruitment department at the Center for Advanced Legal Studies.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №40

Rating: 5

I ve been very pleased with my experience at CALS. The online classes are very convenient for students with a full time job, and very informative. Everyone at CALS is very responsive and helpful. The instructors, Tami Riggs the Director of Career Services and the entire CALS team, will help prepare you with the necessary knowledge and tools needed to seek employment. I was able to quickly gain employment due to CALS job placement assistance. Applying at CALS was one of the best decisions I ve made.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №41

Rating: 5

As a student at CALS I have to say that I was more than pleased with the level of professionalism I received from the staff and teaching faculty. I want to thank Tami Riggs for her incredible effort with job referral opportunities. I am proud to say I graduated with a 4.0 GPA. Also, I met the criterion to be nominated for induction into their Lambda Epsilon Chi (LEX) Chapter of the American Association of Paralegal Education. Finally, I am now working as a Professional Paralegal with a successful law firm in Houston, TX. Thank you Center for Advanced Legal Studies.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №42

Rating: 5

Center for Advanced Legal Studies was the best decision I made. The classes where just the right size and provides the student with a one-on-one atmosphere. They were instrumental with preparing me for a paralegal career.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №43

Rating: 5

I give CALS/ Center for Advanced Legal Studies 5 stars, because I feel they have earned it. I started out earning my paralegal certificate through CALS , and loved the course that was offered. When I heard they had an associates degree program I immediately knew I wanted a degree in this field of study! I just graduated recently with my associates degree in paralegal studies from CALS, the courses they offered were similar to the certificate program courses, yet more in depth, with even more elective courses to choose from. Such as family law, personal injury law, criminal law just to name a few, with many more to choose from. The staff is so helpful, and teaches you everything you need to know, to work in the real world, as a paralegal! If your deciding on where to attend school, to become a paralegal. Or worried about finances, no worries, CALS has an excellent financial aid department, where most everyone gets accepted. Choose CALS. You will not be disappointed. The best decision I ever made! Much gratitude!

Date: 5 years ago

Review №44

Rating: 5

I attended and completed the Paralegal certificate program at Center for Advanced Legal Studies and it was the best decision I made for my career. I HIGHLY recommend attending CALS, the staff and teachers are so personable and professional. They have great experience, knowledge and are very supportive. I give many Thanks and appreciation for the assistance I received from the Director of Outreach and Career Services. From the excellent guidance, I was able to obtain employment with a law firm.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №45

Rating: 5

After completion of my Paralegal Certificate program I started my job search. Thanks to the dedication and support of Ms. Tami in Career Placement and CALS, they were able to help me in effectively creating an outstanding resume reflecting my skills. This resume and her help has helped me land an awesome opportunity in the legal field. All before graduation!!! Im excited to begin my new career!

Date: 5 years ago

Review №46

Rating: 5

I am a recent graduate of CALS and I am so thankful that I made the decision to attend here. The staff was extremely helpful from the very beginning, all the way through and even assisted me with finding a job. I cannot express how grateful I am for them and all that they have done for my future. I feel more than well prepared for the next step in my legal career and I have CALS to thank for that.

Date: 5 years ago

Review №47

Rating: 5

The Center for Advanced Legal Studies is a great program. They completely prepared me for my first paralegal position at the oldest law firm in the state, at a competitive salary. I am so pleased with the education I received while earning my paralegal certificate, I enrolled in the AAS program in Paralegal Studies. They are also very proactive in helping graduates find interviews with Houstons top firms. I found the employer and secured interviews without their assistance, but the schools outreach coordinator helped me revamp my resume and sent a stellar letter of recommendation on my behalf. Im certain this helped set me above other candidates. I will be forever thankful!

Date: 5 years ago

Review №48

Rating: 5

CALS changed my life in 9 short months. I completed the paralegal certificate program this past September. The professors at CALS have incredible insight into the legal profession and the skills they provide are essential for once you begin working as a paralegal. I landed a job the week I finished classes and I haven t looked back. Couldn t have done it without CALS and their amazing staff!!!

Date: 5 years ago

Review №49

Rating: 1

Read reviews! DO NOT screw up and choose this school! It is expensive and all about getting your money. Yes you mostly teach yourself! There are a couple of great teachers but staff is incompetant, will screw up your funding and credits will all go down the drain. They are no longer accredited by ABA and are seeking to offer Bachelors degrees. VERY IMPORTaNT.... their classes transfer nowhere. Even the one college they claim accepts transfers SHSU was so sad to hear I made that mistake because like one class will transfer. They hung their head in sympathy that I made that mistake. As one girl replied on her review, the office staff screws up, no one will listen and only you will be held accountable. I suppose they are gonna suck peoples financial aid and money until they someone finally shuts their doors! Incompetant!

Date: 6 years ago

Review №50

Rating: 5

The Center For Advanced Legal Studies is a great investment. There is a interview process and (test) requirements to complete, before a student can be enrolled at CALS. You will meet, work with, and be taught from professionals (men & women) who are not just educated Professors but licensed Attorneys who still practice law (or retired Attorneys who did practice law and have actual legal experience). You are able to meet, work with, and also have the opportunity to be taught from other Professionals (Professors) who are licensed in other areas. This place has room for you even if you work full time or work part time. Classes are not just available on campus, but online. As a student, you have a majority of live classes and live interaction with the Professor(s) and your classmates. If you have the mindset to not give up, read, study, work with hands on assignments and work with a group of diverse people in the legal field, you would fit right in at CALS. All of the Staff are sweet, flexible with meeting one on one for goals, and will assist to find positive solutions for the student. Thank you, CALS. (-alz )

Date: 7 years ago

Review №51

Rating: 1

No stars!! They dont teach...they tell you to figure it out. The staff refuses to listen and blames the student. Real schools wont take any of their credits. They are about getting your money. I met with the Dean to resolve my issues. They had me blocked from canvas before the meeting. He refused to allow me to have my spouse be present for the meeting! He didnt want any witness to his unethical response to me. Blamed all my complaining on me. Classes are not recorded as they state. They have no intentions of helping a student. If you address issues... The Dean is a problem solver... He tells you...this school isnt for you...problem solved! Pls dont waste your money. Class started with 24 1st session. Week 4, 2nd session 12.. Two of us left today..do the math!!

Date: 7 years ago

Review №52

Rating: 5

Date: 7 years ago

Review №53

Rating: 1

NOT ACCREDITED!! I attended The Center for Advanced Legal Studies, for both my certificate in Paralegal Studies and my Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies, which I recently graduated from in March 2016. After deciding that I wanted to continue my education, which The Center for Advanced Legal Studies really pushes you towards, I started putting in applications. After applying to both, The University of Houston Downtown and The University of Houston, I was positive and confident that I would be accepted right away. Per James S. and Tina G. the two universities UHD and U of H, I applied to, accepted students from CLS with no problems. However, yesterday I received a letter from both schools stating, if I attend school at either university, I would be considered a Freshman student. BECAUSE CENTER FOR ADVANCED LEGAL STUDIES IS NOT ACCREDITED!!! Thats right, two years, ten months and $38,000.00 later (I did not receive ANY financial assistance, I paid out of pocket) I have to start all over with my education. Back to square one, I am so upset....I should have DONE MY RESEARCH ON THIS SCHOOL!!! I have learned a very expensive lesson!!! I totally wish I had chosen a community college, which also has paralegal programs and ARE ACCREDITED!! PAY ATTENTION AND DO YOUR RESEARCH! CONGRATULATIONS Center for Advanced Legal Studies, CONGRATULATIONS!

Date: 7 years ago

Review №54

Rating: 5

Date: 7 years ago

Review №55

Rating: 5

This is really a great school. They helped me find a job very fast 2months prior to graduating. I highly recommend this school. They also offer online classes with live lectures so you can still interact with your teacher and other students.

Date: 9 years ago