LEGAL STUDIES DEGREE

Description: Emphasizes the writing of expository prose. Introduction to the critical reading of nonfiction prose. IAI C1 900

Prerequisite: ENG 096 with a grade of P or other placement options: english-placement-grid.php ESL students need one of the following options: ESL 073 and ESL 074 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 and ESL 086 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 and ESL 099 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 with required writing placement test score; or ESL 074 with required reading placement test score.

Description: Surveys the functions of law; courts and lawyers in modern society; analysis of the origin, training and role of the paralegal; professional responsibilities of the lawyer; outline of the fields and specializations within the practice of law; and an introduction to legal research and writing upon a review of the sources (primary and secondary) and legal resources (print and online) available at Harper College.

Description: Investigates human and animal behavior with emphasis on the scientific nature of contemporary and classic psychological investigation. Emphasizes psychological theories, principles, and research applications. Introduces the divisions of the American Psychological Association. References biological processes, sensation, perception, learning, memory, thinking, emotional life, mental disorders, intelligence, aptitude, personality, development, daily life and everyday problems. IAI S6 900

Description: Analysis and description of the structure and dynamics of human society. Application of scientific methods to the observation and analysis of social norms, groups, inter-group relations, social change, social stratification and institutions. This course meets the World Culture and Diversity graduation requirement. IAI S7 900

Description: Introduces the various types of writing and communication used in business and technology. Includes instructions, procedures, abstracts, proposals, visuals and reports.

Prerequisite: ENG 101 with a grade of C or better, or consent of instructor or department chair.

Description: Emphasizes the role of the paralegal in litigation. Analyzes civil procedure and instruction in preparation of documents used in lawsuits, covering pre- and post-trial matters, evidentiary problems and assistance during trials.

Prerequisite: LGS 101 with a grade of C or better or consent of program coordinator.

Description: Instructs in the basic techniques and skills necessary to conduct legal research and to summarize the results of that research in appropriate written form. Teaches students to use legal research tools (both online/Westlaw and print) and develop legal reasoning skills to craft written documents such as legal correspondence, legal memoranda, a 50-state survey, and case briefs. Develops practical skills through sequential written assignments which build analytical, research, and writing skills throughout the semester.

Prerequisite: LGS 101 with a grade of C or better.

Description: This course is only offered in the spring term.
Provides historical study of common law estates and interests. Emphasizes the role of and relationship between the attorney and the paralegal in preparing the more common types of real property transactions and conveyances such as deeds, contracts and leases; drafting problems involving these various instruments; and a study of the system of recording and search of public documents. Students must draft a set of residential closing documents.

Description: Emphasizes the role of the paralegal in tort law. Studies basic tort principles; examines pleading forms used in litigation of various tort actions.

Description: This course is only offered in the fall term. Emphasizes the role of the paralegal in family law. Examines domestic relations law with emphasis on marriage, divorce, annulment, separation agreements, adoption and other legal matters involving the family.

Prerequisite: LGS 101 with a grade of C or better, or consent of program coordinator.

Description: Surveys the principles, history, and sources of contract law. Examines the elements of a valid, enforceable contract. Provides instruction regarding the drafting of contracts. Examines Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code regarding the sale of goods. Emphasizes the role of the paralegal in contract law.

Description: This course is only offered in the fall term.
Provides the paralegal student with exposure to and training in working within a law office. The Law Office is online and virtual, yet it still is a working law firm. Reviews the intricacies of medium-sized law firm with a strong emphasis on litigation and contract work as well. Upon the completion of this course, the student should retain an understanding of working through legal analysis to solve the problems of clients coming into a law firm. The course shall emphasize the need of the written project as well, including, but not limited to, client letters, motions, memorandums, briefs, deposition summaries and other legal documents produced by paralegals. The student will be familiar with information relevant to law practices including case law, statutes, news sources, administrative law and public records.

Prerequisite: LGS 101, LGS 103, LGS 115 and an LGS elective with grades of C or better.

Description: This course is only offered in the fall term.
Prepares students in the Legal Studies Program to aid in incorporation, corporate record keeping and compliance with administrative regulations. Students learn about the formation of various types of business organizations. This includes the understanding of statutes, rules, forms and releases pertaining to the principal acts administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Description: Focuses on political involvement, elections, campaigns, interest groups, Congress, courts, the presidency, and the constitution. Discusses how our government runs, as well as current political controversies. Utilizes political figures as guest speakers and offers opportunities for political participation, especially in election years. IAI S5 900

Description: Prepares students to apply popular software packages or suites as they relate to law offices. Introduces software applications specific to the legal field. Teaches students to format legal documents, e-file, and use timekeeping, billing, e-discovery, litigation support, and case management software.

Description: Surveys the principles, history, and sources of contract law. Examines the elements of a valid, enforceable contract. Provides instruction regarding the drafting of contracts. Examines Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code regarding the sale of goods. Emphasizes the role of the paralegal in contract law.

Description: Provides supervised experience in a legal setting to enhance students' technical paralegal skills or the skills necessary to be effective in that legal setting. Students must complete a journal documenting their internship work, and a final portfolio of their work suitable to show a prospective employer.

Prerequisite: LGS 101, LGS 103, LGS 115, and an LGS elective with grades of C or better.

Description: Covers the rules of legal ethics and the regulation of the legal profession. Students learn about law office management technology (including billing, timekeeping, files and records management). Complete legal writing tasks typically assigned in a law firm setting (focusing on ethics-based writing assignments).

Prerequisite: LGS 101 with a grade of C or better, or consent of program coordinator.