Undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies

This course requires no previous legal background and introduces the student to the paralegal profession, the legal system, legal research, writing, and analysis, and other aspects of the law and the law office.

This course is a course in the principles of ethics and legal responsibilities for the paralegal. Canons and guidelines for paralegals and lawyers are introduced, and the student is provided practical knowledge of their application to everyday practice and law office management.

This course is an introduction to and the exploration of the process related to civil litigation and the procedures normally the responsibility of the paralegal in preparing materials for trial. Coverage will include information gathering, interviewing, organizing, and preparation of materials for trial.

This course is a study of real estate law, with emphasis on those portions of real estate law that are essential to the processes and functions of the real estate purchase, administration, financing, land use regulation, financial instruments, leases, and property rights.

This course will examine the practical aspects of criminal law and procedure as they pertain to the work of the paralegal. The course covers the nature of criminal liability, the elements of various crimes, and defenses to criminal accusations. The course will also cover criminal procedure, from search and seizure through trial and appeal. Constitutional issues relating to search and seizure, self-incrimination and other matters are explored in depth. Students learn how to prepare relevant legal documents.

This course will assess the methods used to locate necessary legal materials and be able to evaluate the appropriate citations of those materials. The paralegal aspects are reviewed and distinguished from other judicial case briefings. The course will introduce legal analysis methods and the preparation of appropriate techniques for researching legal issues and cases. Critical definitions of legal terminology are analyzed and used in preparation of legal materials such as memoranda, client letters, and other relevant documents. The course presents the student with techniques for effective writing in the legal environment. (Prerequisite: ENGL101).

Pre Reqs: Proficiency in Writing(ENGL101)

This course is a study of the legal skills involving interviewing and counseling for civil cases, the drafting of legal documents for civil cases, and legal ethics focused specifically on civil cases. Course topics include civil trial practices of pleadings, motions, discovery, pre-trial conferences, jury selection, trial protocols, and appellate strategies.

The general practice of law typically encompasses a broad range of practice areas such as Trusts and Estates, Probate, Bankruptcy, Corporations, Partnerships, and other relevant areas. Students are taught and practice a variety of skills: drafting, counseling, interviewing, mediation, negotiation, and pre-trial preparation. The program meshes substantive law with professional skills; classes are structured to simulate a law firm with the Professor acting as "senior partner," overseeing the student “associates” as they perform a broad range of legal activities.