Academic Courses

Paralegal Studies

PLS 101
Introduction to Paralegal Studies
3-0-3
A general introduction to the field of legal assistance with specific emphasis on the variety of tasks performed by paralegals in different employment settings, as well as the ethical obligations of paralegals.

PLS 111
Legal Research and Writing I
3-0-3
This foundation course is an introduction to the field of legal research and writing. It provides students with an overview of the legal research process, the various legal source materials—both primary and secondary—and the basics of drafting a legal memorandum. Prerequisite: PLS 101.

PLS 115
Legal Technology
3-0-3
An introduction to the use of computers and legal specialty software programs in the contemporary law office and other legal environments. The course will examine applications involving office management, document management, electronic discovery and trial presentation. The course will also address legal ethical considerations in the use of computer technology. Prerequisites: PLS 101, CIS 103.

PLS 121
Civil Litigation I
3-0-3
This foundation course in Civil Litigation for paralegals provides students with an overview of the entire litigation process. The course considers the civil court system, client interviews, and the drafting of documents such as initial pleadings and responses. Students are provided with an overview of discovery and civil trial procedures. Prerequisite: PLS 101.

PLS 211
Legal Research and Writing II
3-0-3
Provides in-depth practice in legal analysis of primary and secondary legal sources, drafting of a wide variety of legal documents, and instruction in the use of computer databases in legal research. Prerequisites: PLS 111, ENGL 102.

PLS 221
Civil Litigation II
3-0-3
An advanced course in civil litigation and trial preparation in which analytic skills are refined and experience is acquired by practicing as a litigation paralegal. Prerequisites: PLS 101 and PLS 121.

PLS 231
Family Law
3-0-3
In-depth introduction to family law practice including antenuptial agreements, separation and divorce issues, support, adoption and child custody matters. Prerequisite: PLS 111.

PLS 241
Tort Law
3-0-3
This is an advanced course in Tort Law. It involves personal injury litigation and trial practice, and includes principles of Tort law such as negligence, intentional Torts, strict liability, product liability and limited tort options in automobile insurance. Prerequisite: PLS 121.

PLS 251
Real Estate Law for Paralegals
3-0-3
Introduction to various tasks performed by paralegals as part of the legal profession’s role in the conduct of real estate transactions. Prerequisite: PLS 111.

PLS 255
Business Organizations for Paralegals
3-0-0-3
This course examines the legal concepts relating to the different business formats such as sole proprietorships, partner-ships, limited liability companies and corporations. The course will specifically focus upon the skills such as drafting, legal research and analysis which are critical to success in this specialty field. Prerequisites: ENGL 101 and PLS 111.

PLS 261
Wills, Trusts and Estate Administration
3-0-3
In-depth introduction to the tasks performed by paralegals in estate planning and probate of a decedent’s estate. Prerequisite: PLS 111.

PLS 265
Intellectual Property
3-0-3
This is an advanced course for paralegals in the area of intellectual property. The course considers the legal protection of all forms of intellectual property by means of patents, copyrights and trademarks. Students are provided with an understanding of the legal processes involved in the protection of intellectual property and the paralegal’s role in those processes. Prerequisite: PLS 111.

PLS 271
Bankruptcy Law
3-0-3
This course examines the legal concepts relating to creditor and debtor rights under Title 11 of the United States Code, commonly referred to as the Bankruptcy Code. Students will learn about the various chapters of the Bankruptcy Code and its major sections, specifically focusing on consumer bankruptcy cases and the analysis of client interviews. Students will develop skills necessary to prepare a bankruptcy petition and its accompanying schedules and statements as well as other documents and motions commonly filed with the court in bankruptcy practice. Prerequisite: PLS 121.

PLS 275
Employment Law
3-0-3
An in-depth introduction to the laws governing the employer-employee relationship and the tasks performed by paralegals in employment law. Prerequisite: PLS 111.

PLS 281
Environmental Law
3-0-3
An introductory analysis of federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations and their application in the practice of environmental law. Prerequisite: PLS 111.

PLS 285
Immigration Law
3-0-3
Immigration Law will provide an overview of immigration law in the United States, with an emphasis on the practical application of that law in a law firm or corporate environment. Students will learn the skills needed to deal with a deadline-oriented caseload for a diverse clientele. Topics will include the basics of immigration employment and family based immigration, refugee law and the procedures for applying for citizenship and asylum. Prerequisites: PLS 101, PLS 121.

PLS 295
Legal Internship
1.5-10-3
This course provides students with practical experience by applying the knowledge learned throughout the paralegal program in a work environment for a minimum of 120 hours during a semester. In weekly seminars and individual meetings with the course instructor, students explore career options, develop confidence as professionals and acquire job hunting and career development skills. Prerequisites: Completion of at least 36 credits toward the degree including PLS 101, PLS 111 and PLS 121 and a grade point average of 2.5 or better.