Paralegal (LEGAL)

A comprehensive introduction to the basic, key areas of paralegal studies.  Develop a comprehensive understanding of the laws in our society, the importance of ethical and professional responsibility, and the skills needed to thrive in the legal environment. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

This course introduces computer hardware and software basics that apply to the legal environment.  Students will learn and apply Microsoft Office components including Teams, Word, Excel, OneNote, PowerPoint, and Outlook, as they are used in the day-to-day life of paralegals.  Students will also explore legal-specific software.  This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Learn essential research and writing skills, that include identifying key facts, issue spotting, analysis and counter analysis, traditional and online research, secondary authorities and citating.  Apply writing principles for writing legal briefs and memoranda.  This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Learn the role of today's real estate paralegal and examine real estate law and transactions.  Topics include contemporary real estate law and legal principles that use practical application, case example, and the latest real estate legal forms.  Examine all areas of transactional real estate-from contracts and brokerage relationships to surveys, title insurance, taxation and real estate finance related to residential and commercial processes in the United States. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Learn the legal principles that govern marital and nonmarital families. Principles cover rights and duties as families are created, maintained, and dissolved. Examine the laws that defines relationships, rights, and duties in the formation, ongoing existence, community property, and dissolution of marriage and other family units. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Learn the basics of estate planning and bequeathing property to others through wills and trusts. Designed specifically for paralegals, this course familiarizes you with the latest laws and procedures, including the Uniform Probate Code, the new Uniform Electronic Wills Act and the Uniform Partition of Heirs' Property Act. Examine the latest relevant laws, review court procedures, and learn about tax implications and ethical choices. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Learn key concepts and practical principles of tort law. Apply tort concepts in current cases. Distinguish how to carefully consider variables in a case and potential resolutions. Realistic situations are designed to improve legal understanding and skills. Identify the principles of tort law needed for a successful career as a paralegal. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Introduction to the litigation process and the relationship of litigation to other legal specialties. Learn the civil litigation process and identify different types of civil litigation cases. Topics include commencement of a civil action, pleadings and motions, parties to a case, discovery of evidence, trials, judgments, and appeals, as well as alternatives to litigation. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Work-place learning in a legal services office. Aid attorneys with legal research, interview and provide advice to clients, and assist in case planning. Assist with development of self-help materials for pro-se litigants, training materials for staff and clients, and work on other special projects depending on the needs of the office. This class may include students from multiple sections.