LGS 111 - Introduction to Paralegal Studies

3 credit hours - Three hours weekly; one term.
Gain a general perspective of the legal system and the role of paralegals within that system. Topics include court systems, jurisdiction, legal research and writing, civil procedure, criminal law and procedure, legal ethics, investigation and interviewing techniques, torts, contracts, family law, estates and trusts, and alternative dispute resolution. Evaluate client scenarios and understand the variety of lenses upon which the law may be viewed. Lab fee $10.

Prerequisite(s): Eligibility for ENG 101 /ENG 101A .

Note: Typically offered at MC, AM, and OL; fall, spring, and summer terms.

Course Outcomes:

Identify areas of law that are available for paralegals.
Describe ethical standards and duties that govern paralegals, including the application of the Maryland Attorneys’ Rules of Professional Conduct.
Describe the sources of law, including the distinction between primary and secondary sources as well as substantive and procedural law.
Identify the application of the law across a variety of social and cultural contexts.
Perform, in a simplified way, many of the tasks performed by paralegals.
Locate, analyze, and cite Maryland statutory law, including the Maryland Annotated Code and Maryland Rules.
Locate, analyze, and brief Maryland cases, inclduing using proper citation form.
Conduct fundamental legal research using legal encyclopedia, case digests, cases and statutes.
Display critical thinking skills in analyzing problems, conducting fundamental legal research to solve the problems, identifying diveristy elements and cultural awareness in client and third party interaction.
Identify the components of and draft a memorandum of law.