Paralegal

Degrees and Certificates

Classes

PRL 101 : Introduction to Paralegal Study

This course introduces the paralegal profession and the legal system. Topics include regulations and concepts, ethics, case analysis, legal reasoning, career opportunities, certification, professional organizations, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to explain the role of the paralegal and identify the skills, knowledge, and ethics required of legal assistants.

Credits

3

PRL 102 : Basic Legal Research and Writing

This course introduces the techniques of legal research and writing. Emphasis is placed on locating, analyzing, applying, and updating sources of law, effective legal writing, including proper citation, and the use of electronic research methods. Upon completion, students should be able to perform legal research and writing assignments using techniques covered in the course.

Credits

3

PRL 103 : Advanced Legal Research and Writing

This course covers advanced topics in legal research and writing. Topics include more complex legal issues and assignments involving preparation of legal memos, briefs, and other documents and the advanced use of electronic research methods. Upon completion, students should be able to perform legal research and writing assignments using techniques covered in the course.

Credits

3

Prerequisites

PRL 101
PRL 102

PRL 160 : Criminal Law and Procedure

This course introduces substantive and procedural criminal law including elements of state and federal crimes, defenses, constitutional issues, pre-trial process, and other related topics.

Credits

3

Prerequisites

PRL 101
PRL 102

PRL 210 : Real Property Law

This course emphasizes the study of real property law. Topics include the distinction between real and personal property, various estates and interests in property, and the mechanics of conveyance, encumbrances, and closing procedures.

Credits

3

Prerequisites

PRL 101
PRL 102

PRL 230 : Domestic Law

This course covers laws governing domestic relations. Topics include marriage, separation, divorce, child custody, support, property division, adoption, domestic violence, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to interview clients, gather information, and draft documents related to family law.

Credits

3

Prerequisites

PRL 101
PRL 102

PRL 240 : Wills, Trusts, and Estates

This course covers wills, trusts, and inheritance.  Topics include types of wills, the law of intestacy (inheritance), probating estates, and alternatives to probate. The course also covers trusts, medical directives, and associated litigation.  

Credits

3

Prerequisites

PRL 101
PRL 102

PRL 291 : Internship

This course provides students opportunities to work in paid or unpaid positions in which they apply paralegal skills and knowledge. Upon course completion, students will be able to apply in real work settings competencies obtained in the PRL curriculum.

Credits

3

Prerequisites

PRL 101
PRL 102