Frequently Asked Questions
What is LSI?
The Legal Support Institute (LSI) is an industry-specific vocational training school that focuses on developing skills for entry-level support staff positions within the legal profession. LSI is governed by the Board of Directors of Raft, Inc., which is a public benefit nonprofit corporation with a 501(c)3 tax exemption.
Our faculty instructors consist of legal support staff personnel, retired teachers, vocational counselors and human resource consultants. Raft's staff maintains ties to the legal profession to stay abreast of employer hiring needs. This allows LSI to keep an up-to-date curriculum, which covers current firm employee job descriptions that outline required skills and duties. This helps LSI to focus on developing specific skill sets, based on those duties performed.
Who can take LSI classes?
LSI courses are for low-income single parents, 18 to 35 years with minor children and emancipated youth. All students must have a high school diploma or GED certificate and be able to pass a background check. It is the responsibility of the student to report to LSI staff any criminal records background information prior to enrollment, and to report any changes in status that would adversely affect employability.
Why enroll in an LSI class?
- To earn a living wage in a generally stable job market with benefits and often year-end bonuses.
- To discover a new, interesting, highly professional career with many opportunities for advancement in the legal profession.
- For the opportunity to upgrade skills, change careers, or prepare for re-entry into the workforce.
- To benefit from industry-experienced instructors with a program supported by the California Bar Foundation.
When and where are classes offered?
LSI's vocational training school is located in the Inglewood north area (1601 Centinela Avenue, Suite 207, Inglewood, CA 90302). The two and one half hour classes are held Monday through Thursday, afternoon and/or evening classes available based on demand. *Attend orientation for schedule.
What is the cost?
All courses for our students require a mandatory fee of $100 (non-refundable) for registration per course and a $50.00 (non-refundable) equipment fee per course. The course fee information is provided on the Registration page in the Admissions section of the LSI webpages, as well as in the School Catalog and Student Handbook.
Is there Job Placement?
The LEGAL SUPPORT INSTITUTE classes are designed to prepare successful graduates for placement in a law firm or a professional business office, which pays $12.00 to $15.00 or more per hour. Some firms and businesses prefer paid temp-to-perm assignments initially to consider potential new employees. Student graduates need a variety of temporary assignments, to gain the necessary experience working in different office environments and to build their confidence level. This process better prepares them for any assignment, it enhances their resume and increases their chances to obtain permanent job placement.
After graduation, Raft/LSI's personnel referral service Coordinators assist graduates with resume restructuring, the interview process, and provides employer leads through our Personnel Referral Service for temp-to-perm assignments. Graduates may also shop their own resumes. LSI also provides follow up assistance during and after the placement process for up to 12 months. LSI does not guarantee placement. Job placement will depend heavily upon a candidates ability to positively present themselves to a firms hiring manager. LSI graduates can increase their opportunities for placement, by maintaining established phone accessibility, arriving promptly to scheduled appointments, upholding the acceptable dress code discussed in training and regularly reviewing the interview coaching techniques that are covered in the course materials for successful job interviews.
