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Law & Government

Paralegal Course Descriptions

LEGAL 100: Career and College Success: Paralegal

Credits: 3.0

This course is designed to enhance student success and transition into or return to college inthe paralegal field.It includes self-assessment, goal-setting, effective study habits, campus resources, educational planning, andexploration of career development and opportunities in the legal field.Additional topics will include diversity, academic honesty, and the use of online tools to aid academic success. Prerequisite(s): Placement into ENGLP 93 OR AENGL 93.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate the use of learning strategies to comprehend, retain, and apply class content.
  2. Identify individual strengths, skills, characteristics, and interests in order to pursue personal, academic, and career goals in the legal field.
  3. Apply effective communication skills when engaging with peers, instructors, and client/service populations as well as in the college community within a culturally diverse environment.
  4. Identify, access, and navigate college resources for program success.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to find credible and contextually-appropriate sources for research and evaluation and to ethically incorporate those sources into their work.

LEGAL 200: Introduction to Law and The Legal Process: CD

Credits: 5.0

An introduction to the function and sources of American law,state and federal courts, civil and criminal procedures, legal reasoning, ethics applicable to lawyers and paralegals, and the various areas of law, including tort, contract, family,criminal, and American Indian/Alaska Native law. Students will also observe a real court proceeding.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Read, understand, and analyze published cases and codes.
  2. Demonstrate how to brief a case and identify case holdings.
  3. Explain and distinguish among common legal terms.
  4. Discuss how the civil and criminal litigation processes operate in state and federal courts.
  5. Explain how to file a case with state and federal courts.
  6. Understand the essential resources found in a typical law library.
  7. Compare and contrast the roles of lawyers and paralegals.
  8. Identify the activities which, when performed by a paralegal, constitute the unauthorized practice of law.
  9. Demonstrate effective communication skills in a legal context.
  10. Discuss how law may or may not result in justice while reflecting on the role law has played in the treatment of minority groups in America.

LEGAL 205: Civil Procedure

Credits: 5.0

An overview of the civil litigation process in Washington State and the paralegal's role in assisting with civil litigation matters. Topics include commencement of a civil action, pleadings and motions, parties to a case, discovery of evidence, trials, judgments, and appeals, as well as alternatives to litigation. Emphasis is placed on using the Washington State Court Rules effectively. Students gain experience drafting basic pleadings, motions, and other papers.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Understand the difference between substantive and procedural law and how they interrelate.
  2. Differentiate among the different stages of a civil case, from pre-litigation to appeal.
  3. Locate and apply the Washington State Court Rules and the various county local rules correctly.
  4. Explain the concepts of personal jurisdiction, subject matter jurisdiction, and venue as they relate to the commencement of a civil action.
  5. Describe the different discovery tools available in a civil case, and how sanctions are obtained for failure to comply with a discovery request.
  6. Identify the main types of alternative dispute resolution, and explain how court-mandated arbitration applies to the civil litigation process.
  7. Draft basic pleadings, motions, and other papers in the proper court-approved format.
  8. Demonstrate the skills necessary for a paralegal to work successfully with attorneys and other paralegals on civil litigation matters.

LEGAL 210: Legal Research and Writing

Credits: 5.0

An introduction to state and federal legal research using both hardbound volumes and online legal research database services. Emphasis is placed on locating and analyzing primary cases and codes, interpreting secondary authorities and practice tools, and updating legal research results effectively. Students will also practice writing client correspondence, legal opinion letters, and a legal memoranda, as well as prepare proper legal citations. Recommend completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 200; completion of ENGL& 101.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Conduct legal research using both hardbound volumes and online legal research database services, including Westlaw.
  2. Locate and interpret relevant state and federal constitutions, statutes, and administrative regulations.
  3. Explain how to locate and use state and federal case reports and reporters effectively when conducting legal research.
  4. Demonstrate how case digests are used to locate relevant state and federal judicial opinions.
  5. Use legal encyclopedias, annotated law reports, legal periodicals, and other secondary sources to assist with legal research.
  6. Prepare proper state and federal legal citations in compliance with The Bluebook,the Washington Style Sheet, and the court rules.
  7. Describe how online citators are used to expand and update legal research, and to track the legal history of specific research and its treatment by subsequent courts.
  8. Draft legal documents using the standard components for client correspondence, legal opinion letters, and legal memoranda.
  9. Identify and implement effective strategies to organize and perform legal research and writing projects.

LEGAL 214: Legal Ethics

Credits: 3.0

An overview of the ethical issues facing legal professionals in Washington State. Topics include the regulation of attorney and paralegal conduct, client confidentiality, the unauthorized practice of law, conflicts of interest, the handling of client funds, advertising, billing, fee splitting, disciplinary procedures, and legal malpractice.  

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and apply the ethical standards and rules of professional conduct that govern paralegals and attorneys in Washington State.
  2. Summarize what constitutes the practice of law, and identify methods to avoid engaging in the unauthorized practice of law.
  3. Apply the ethical rules required to protect client confidentiality, attorney-client privilege, and attorney work product.
  4. Analyze the methods for resolving potential conflicts of interest faced by paralegals and attorneys, including concurrent and successive representation, business transactions with clients, gifts from clients, imputed conflicts, and disqualification.
  5. Distinguish between advertising and solicitation, and describe the limitations on attorney advertising and the solicitation of new clients.
  6. Explain the various types of client fee arrangements, what constitutes a reasonable fee, the rules regarding fee splitting and referral fees, and how client property and client trust accounts must be handled.
  7. Discuss what constitutes legal competence and the disciplinary actions that exist for incompetence.
  8. Describe the current and trending ethical issues affecting paralegals, attorneys, and other legal professionals.

LEGAL 215: Administrative Law

Credits: 5.0

The study of the administrative procedures acts governing federal and Washington agencies with an emphasis on the creation of agencies; agency rulemaking, investigations, and hearings; availability and scope of judicial review; public records acts; and constitutional limitations on agency actions. Includes attention to the paralegal's role in working with clients and agencies. Prerequisite(s): LEGAL 200 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Explain the relationship and function of administrative agencies at all levels of government.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of the methods used by the branches of government, at both federal and state levels, to maintain accountability and control of administrative agencies.
  3. Explain the application of constitutional concepts of federalism, separation of powers, due process, equal protection, delegation doctrine, Fourth and Fifth Amendments to an administrative law problem.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of the provisions of the federal and Washington Administrative Procedures Acts applicable to agency rulemaking, agency adjudications, and judicial review.
  5. Analyze the major issues and apply substantive and procedural federal and state administrative laws and rules in resolving an administrative law problem.
  6. Locate, acquire, evaluate and apply information from federal and state statutes, agency rules and case law in hardbound and electronic sources in response to an administrative law problem.
  7. Prepare appropriate documents for various procedures common to administrative agencies, in compliance with the applicable administrative procedures act and agency rules.

LEGAL 217: Land Use and Zoning Law

Credits: 1.0

This course introduces the laws regulating public and private real estate use and development. Zoning, the most common form of land use regulation, is covered, as well as other land use topics, including eminent domain, regulatory takings, historic preservation, growth management, open space preservation, redevelopment, inclusionary housing, and environmental regulations.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the basic concepts and key terms relevant to land use law.
  2. Compare and contrast the rights and concerns of the key actors in land use regulation: landowners, developers, neighbors, governments (mostly local), environmentalists, and preservationists.
  3. Explain the breadth and depth of the government's police power and the limitations of the police power through takings and eminent domain.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of the environmental, social, political, cultural, and economic impacts of land use laws, including their impact on disadvantaged communities directly and indirectly.
  5. Apply the principles of land use law to fact patterns to effectively spot issues and discuss how the law applies to a given set of facts.

LEGAL 218: Construction Law

Credits: 1.0

An introduction to the laws that govern the planning, design, and construction of buildings and structures. Topics include professional registration, licensing, bonds, surety, and building permits and codes. Construction contracts, tort liability, and regulatory and environmental concerns are also discussed.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the local, state, and federal regulations and rules governing contractors and subcontractors, including initial company formation, building permits and codes, and the formation of construction contracts.
  2. Identify the key participants and their roles in the construction industry, including financial institutions, surveyors, quantity surveyors, architects, builders, engineers, construction workers, and planners.
  3. Explain the terms in a standard construction contract, including warranties and disclaimers, indemnification and exculpatory clauses, differing site conditions, change orders, notice and claim provisions, and project delays.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of the laws governing competitive bidding in Washington State, including exceptions.
  5. Analyze common construction disputes, including matters related to construction liens, claims procedure, litigation, alternative dispute resolution, and available remedies.
  6. Discuss emerging issues in construction law, including green building, modular construction, and alternative delivery methods.

LEGAL 220: Real Estate and Property Law

Credits: 5.0

An overview of the laws that govern real estate and other forms of property. Topics include real estate transactions, deeds, mortgages, closings, title searches, and recordings. This course also covers leases, Washington's landlord-tenant laws, and the legal aspects of personal property. Emphasis is placed on the paralegal's role working in a real estate and property law practice. Recommended completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Distinguish between the concepts of real property and personal property.
  2. Explain the most common types of real estate transactions and conveyances, including deeds, contracts, leases, and deeds of trust.
  3. Describe a typical real estate transaction, including file preparation, contract review, deed preparation, financing options, title examinations and insurance, and closings.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge of Washington State's system of recording and searching for public documents, including title.
  5. Identify the rights and duties owed to landlords and tenants under Washington's Residential Landlord Tenant Act.
  6. Perform the essential duties of a real estate and property law paralegal and identify activities that would constitute the unauthorized practice of law if performed by a paralegal.
  7. Identify and draft various documents involved in conveying real property through sale, lease, or other transactions.

LEGAL 225: Litigation Practice and Procedure

Credits: 5.0

An advanced study of the civil litigation processfrom pretrial through trial and appeal, with an emphasis on preparing litigation-related documents and creating a trial notebook. Students should already have a working knowledge of the rules of civil procedure before taking this course. Emphasis will be placed on the practical aspects of a paralegal's role working in a civillitigation practice. Recommend completion of LEGAL 200 and LEGAL 205 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Discuss the law office setting and procedures, courts and jurisdiction, and the stages of the civil litigation process.
  2. Explain the role of paralegals on the litigation team interviewing clients and witnesses, filing court documents, serving papers, assisting in discovery, assisting at trial and other litigation processes.
  3. Integrate substantive and procedural law in preparing documents and working with the various parties involved in the litigation process.
  4. Use the relevant federal and state rules of civil procedure and evidence to ensure compliance in preparation of documents, time computation, docketing/calendaring, and other tasks related to the civil litigation process.
  5. Demonstrate awareness of the ethical and professional responsibilities of the lawyer and the paralegal in civil litigation.
  6. Prepare forms, checklists, pleadings, discovery documents, motions, and other materials relevant to the litigation process.
  7. Create an organized professional-quality trial notebook.

LEGAL 226: Tort and Personal Injury Law

Credits: 5.0

An overview of the fundamentals of tort and personal injury law, including the theories of negligence, intentional torts, strict and products liability, defamation and invasion of privacy, fraud and misrepresentation, malpractice, and common business torts. This course also examines the various legal defenses in torts, the computation of damages, and the role that insurance plays in personal injury cases. No prior legal training or experience is required to take this course.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the basic court system and the steps involved in a civil trial.
  2. Identify the elements of a negligence action and the important features found in a negligence complaint.
  3. Describe the legal consequences when a duty arises and how certain special relationships give rise to a higher standard of care, including the concept of premises liability.
  4. Determine when a breach of duty has occurred and how a defendant's actions (or failure to act) violate the standard of reasonableness under tort law.
  5. Describe when a defendant's actions (or omissions) are the proximate cause of a plaintiff's injuries.
  6. Explain the difference between contributory negligence and comparative negligence, and identify some of the exceptions to contributory negligence.
  7. Explain the difference between strict liability and negligence actions, and which types of activities trigger strict liability theory.
  8. Define the basic characteristics of a products liability lawsuit and the theories on which a products liability case can be based.
  9. Describe the elements of defamation and explain how damages are assessed in libel and slander cases.
  10. Distinguish between compensatory, punitive, and nominal damages, as well as between general and specific damages.
  11. Explain the role and ethical obligations of a paralegal working in the area of tort and personal injury law.

LEGAL 228: Law Office Technology

Credits: 5.0

Introduction to law office technology, including timekeeping and billing software; database, case management, and docket control software; litigation support software; legal imaging techniques; electronic discovery platforms; and electronic filing. Microsoft Office Suite is covered; however, students should already have basic-to-intermediate computer and word processing skills before taking this course.Recommend completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and describe the basic computer hardware components.
  2. Identify and describe software and information systems typically encountered in a legal environment and the factors to consider when purchasing legal software.
  3. Demonstrate word processing program features, including preparing, editing, saving, and retrieving documents.
  4. Describe spreadsheet and database program features, and be able to prepare a basic spreadsheet, graph, and database.
  5. Demonstrate presentation software program features, including slide components, graphics, and sound, and be able to create a basic presentation.
  6. Describe the features of typical law office time keeping and billing software programs; identify the ethical issues that arise with the use of such programs.
  7. Describe the features of computerized litigation support programs and compare these programs to corresponding manual litigation support.
  8. Describe and compare the features of case management and office management software.
  9. Demonstrate the features of computerized docket control systems and compare to manual docket control systems; identify ethical problems relating to docket control.
  10. Access legal and nonlegal data using the Internet and evaluate Internet sites for reliability and validity of information.
  11. Use email functions and describe ethical issues that arise as a result of using email and other electronic methods of communication.

LEGAL 230: Interviewing and Investigating: CD

Credits: 5.0

Introduction to factual investigations and interviewing, with emphasis on methods of investigation, role of pretrial discovery, examination of evidence, use of experts, obtaining public and private information, and ethical considerations associated with interviews and investigations. Students will conduct mock interviews of potential clients and witnesses in class based on hypothetical civil and criminal cases.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify and use effective strategies to investigate and gather facts as they relate to formal discovery and informal criminal and civil investigations.
  2. Demonstrate the ability to locate relevant information found in public and private records by following appropriate procedures and making necessary records requests.
  3. Evaluate a potential client's case effectively through the use of learned interviewing techniques.
  4. Identify fact witnesses and locate qualified expert witnesses.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to schedule and conduct client and witness interviews, prepare interview plans, draft investigation reports, and create witness declarations.
  6. Describe the meaning and effect of the relevant ethical and professional considerations related to interviewing and investigating, including the unauthorized practice of law, client confidentiality, attorney-client privilege, work product, conflicts of interest, and improper communications.
  7. Apply knowledge, awareness, and/or skills to identify and analyze issues related to diversity.

LEGAL 234: Elder Law

Credits: 2.0

This course focuses on the legal, financial, medical, social, and family issues affecting seniors, people with disabilities, and their families. Topics range from broad ethical issues (representation, capacity) to an examination of specific laws and practices to assist clientsin planning for retirement, possible incapacity, and death. Specific topics covered include special needs trusts and other planning tools for incapacity, guardianships, Medicare and Medicaid, veteran's benefits, health care decision-making, long-term care, social security and other income support, protective proceedings, andelder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the functions of the Social Security Administration, Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and Veterans Administration, the benefits provided, and the procedures for applying.
  2. Discuss the functions of federal, state, and local agencies serving elderly individuals through the Aging Network, the programs available, and eligibility criteria.
  3. Explain residents' rights in health care facilities and in assisted living, and the sources of law protecting older adults who are abused, both in the community and in health care facilities, and knowledge of the role of Adult Protective Services.
  4. Analyze the sources of law governing the Medical Assistance program, applying for benefits, resources for resolving problems, and maintaining eligibility.
  5. Identify the legal tools available for asset management and asset protection.
  6. Explain the law governing health care decision-making, including advance directives, surrogate decision-making, and the procedures for establishing guardianships.
  7. Describe the housing options available to seniors, including community-based support services thatenable older adults to remain at home and other available options.

LEGAL 236: Wills, Trusts and Estates

Credits: 5.0

Study of estate planning law and procedures essential to the paralegal involved in the drafting of wills, trusts, and other estate planning tools. Probate practice is also covered, including initial steps, asset accumulation, debt management, court procedures, estate-related tax issues, and forms.Recommendcompletion ofor concurrent enrollment inLEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Use the legal terminology of wills, trusts, and probate administration effectively.
  2. Recognize and explain the purposes, functions, and statutory requirements of wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents.
  3. Describe the process of estate administration and differentiate between the various types of probate proceedings.
  4. Prepare estate planning and probate documents under the direct supervision of an attorney.
  5. Demonstrate the skills needed to effectively interview clients and analyze their needs.
  6. Identify and apply important ethical considerations to the paralegal's role in estate planning and probate practice.

LEGAL 240: Contracts

Credits: 5.0

This course examines the components of a legally binding contract. Topics also include: defenses against enforcement, interpretation of contract terms, performance, breach, and remedies. Students gain experience analyzing contract problems and drafting standard contract provisions.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify the components of a valid contract, including the elements of a valid offer, a proper acceptance, and legally adequate considerations.
  2. Discuss issues of lack of mutual assent, including incapacity, illegality, fraud, misrepresentation, mistake, duress, undue influence, and unconscionability.
  3. Explain which contracts must be in writing under the Statute of Frauds, and apply the rules of interpretation and the Parol Evidence rule to construe the meaning of written contracts.
  4. Summarize the methods for discharging contractual obligations, including impossibility, impracticability, frustration of purpose, rescission, release, novation, modification, accord and satisfaction, and performance.
  5. Identify the different types of third party contractual relationships and differentiate between assignments and delegations.
  6. Distinguish between the available for breach of a common law contract and those available for breach of a sale of goods contract under the Uniform Commercial Code.
  7. Apply the substantive law of contracts and the rules of interpretation to analyze a typical contract problem and to draft a standard contract.

LEGAL 244: American Indian Law: CD

Credits: 3.0

An overview of the law and policy relating to American Indians and federally recognized tribes, federal, state, and tribal laws, and the unique legal status of American Indians and Indian Country. Emphasis on the paralegal's role in working with clients, tribal governments, and tribal court systems in Washington State.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of federal and state statutes and case law about American Indians and Tribes, including rules relating to treaty interpretation and the legal status of American Indians and Tribal Governments.
  2. Identify and apply constitutional concepts to American Indian Tribes, including the commerce clause, due process, equal protection, and sovereignty, as well as the individual constitutional rights of American Indians under the Indian Civil Rights Act.
  3. Identify and apply substantive and procedural legal requirements under the federal Indian Child Welfare Act and Violence Against Women Act, including regulations of state statutes and federal and state administrative regulations.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of the civil and criminal jurisdiction of tribes in civil law, criminal law, and regulations regarding tribal persons, tribal activities, and tribal lands.
  5. Explore and apply a cultural, religious, and ethnic perspective of tribal laws, tribal rules, and tribal regulations to establish effective working relationships and to effectively interact in a multicultural setting.
  6. Apply knowledge, awareness, and skills to identify and analyze diversity-related issues.

LEGAL 247: Intellectual Property

Credits: 3.0

An overview of the intellectual property (IP) laws that help protect and facilitate the commercialization of human innovation, such as creative works, inventions, and proprietary and/or competitive business information. Topics include patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and other current and potential IP issues facing society and business. Completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 200 is recommended but not required.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Understand the normative justifications for legal protections of intangible rights for products of the human mind.
  2. Describe how the law balances interests and protects investments while taking into account public welfare and technological developments. 
  3. Identify and assess ownership rights and marketing protections under IP law as applicable to information, ideas, new products, and product marketing.
  4. Describe the legal and practical requirements for acquiring IP rights and the steps needed for such rights to remain valid and enforceable.
  5. Prepare the appropriate forms and other materials used in the protection of IP rights, and describe the legal claims and defenses available in IP litigation.
  6. Understand current and emerging IP protection issues, including those relating to indigenous knowledge or culture, information technology and the distribution of material on the internet, biotechnology, and international trade.
  7. Apply the principles of legal ethics as they relate to paralegals and other legal professionals working in the area of IP law.

LEGAL 250: Family Law

Credits: 5.0

An overview of the Washington State statutes and procedures on formation and dissolution of marriages and registered domestic partnerships; visitation rights; child and spousal support; prevention of domestic violence; adoptions; parentage issues; and juvenile offenders. Emphasis is placed on the skills necessary for paralegals working in family law. Recommend completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles in the various areas of family law.
  2. Demonstrate the ability to recognize the essence of a problem or problems presented by a factual situation in the family law field.
  3. Demonstrate knowledge of the required skills to work effectively in the area of family law, including effective interviewing skills; ability to analyze client needs; effective drafting skills to produce necessary documents.
  4. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the various state and federal laws affecting families.

LEGAL 251: Juvenile Justice

Credits: 2.0

A study of the law relating to youth involved in the justice system with a focus on procedures applicable to youth in various court proceedings. Course engages students in understanding the unique legal status of youth and surveys and examines theprocess and procedures for adoption, guardianship, and dependency including Indian Child Welfare and delinquency with an emphasis on a paralegal's role in working with the court involved youth process.Recommendcompletion ofor concurrent enrollment inLEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of federal and state statutes and caselaw concerning youth who have been abused or neglected.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of federal and statutes concerning youth who have committed crimes.
  3. Identify and apply sustantive and procedural legal concepts under the dependency and delinquency procedures established under state and federal law.
  4. Identify and apply procedural legal requirements to apply for adoption or guardianship under Washington state law.

LEGAL 254: Environmental Law

Credits: 2.0

An introduction to environmental law and policy in the United States andWashington State. Topics include air-quality control, water-quality control, controlling toxic substances, waste management and hazardous releases, energy and renewable fuels, and natural resources. Emphasis is placed on the practical skills required for paralegalsto evaluate factual situations, apply relevant laws, and draft appropriate documents.Recommendcompletion ofor concurrent enrollment inLEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify the federal- and state-level legislative, executive, and judicial framework and hierarchy under which environmental laws and regulations are created and administered.
  2. Describe and apply the essential provisionsof major federal and state environmentallaws.
  3. Locate and summarize the detailed federal and state environmental regulations that apply to specific corporate, industrial, or client situations.
  4. Predict possible economic, political, societal, and environmental effects of existing and proposed environmental laws.
  5. Monitor changes and developments in environmental laws and regulations applicable to specific corporate, industrial, or client situations.
  6. Determine how well environmental law balances science, economics, and social justice.
  7. Understand the role of a paralegal working in the field ofenvironmental law.

LEGAL 255: Special Topics in Paralegal

Credits: Maximum of 5 credits possible

Specialized courses on current issues in the legal field. Each class will have its own course syllabus and outline. Decimal or S/U grade option depending on the course.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Describe the current information and legal issues relating to the specific course topic.
  2. Identify the legal resources related to the specific course topic for further exploration.
  3. Explain the legal application and ethical implications of the specific course topic for paralegals in a law office setting.

LEGAL 257: Immigration Law: CD

Credits: 5.0

An introduction to immigration law and policy with an emphasis on practical paralegal skills. Course engages students in the study of classification of immigrants and nonimmigrants, procedures for admission and deportation, asylum and refugees, and naturalization and citizenship. Emphasis is placed on a paralegal's role in working in an immigration law practice. Recommend completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Define and use correctly the common vocabulary terms as related to immigration law.
  2. Describe how an individual gains lawful entry to the United States.
  3. Distinguish between the various types of visas and application processes.
  4. Explain deportation and removal requirements.
  5. Demonstrate oral and written communication skills in an immigration law context.
  6. Show an awareness of cultural, religious, and ethnic perspectives of those involved in the immigration process and the role and ethical duties of paralegals.
  7. Identify and apply substantive and procedural concepts fundamental in immigration law to deepen understanding and solve problems.

LEGAL 260: Business Organizations

Credits: 3.0

An introduction to the law relating to business entities, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations, and unincorporated associations. Topics include the essential components of business organization law (agency law and fiduciary duty law), as well as business formation, liability, operational requirements, and management. No prior legal training or experience with accounting, economics, or finance is required to take this course.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of conducting business as a corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or sole proprietorship.
  2. Understand the different roles that state and federal laws play in the regulation of business entities.
  3. Prepare the forms relevant to the formation, operation, and management of business entities.
  4. Explain the functions, rights, responsibilities, and liabilities of corporate officers and directors, shareholders, partners, and sole proprietors.
  5. Identify the principles of agency in tort and contract that are involved in contracts between business enterprises and the public with which they deal.
  6. Describe how officers, directors, and sometimes even stockholders, have fiduciary duties, or obligations of trust.
  7. Apply the principles of legal ethics as they relate to paralegals and other legal professionals working in the area of business law.

LEGAL 263: Debtor/Creditor and Bankruptcy Law

Credits: 5.0

An overview of American bankruptcy law, consumer fair debt collection, and creditor rights and remedies. Emphasis will be placed on the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, bankruptcy court procedures, and the paralegal's role in preparing bankruptcy forms and related documents. Recommend completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 200.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the sources of law governing debtor/creditor relations, including loans, credit arrangements, credit reporting, and fair debt collection practices.
  2. Describe the alternatives to bankruptcy available to debtors and creditors.
  3. Prepare documents and follow the procedures required for attachment, execution, and garnishments.
  4. Distinguish among Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, and 13 bankruptcies, and identify the procedures for selecting the appropriate bankruptcy filing.
  5. Demonstrate basic knowledge related to the bankruptcy estate, exemptions, and the automatic stay.
  6. Understand and demonstrate knowledge related to the appointment of an interim trustee, creditors' meetings, proofs of claims, contested matters and adversary proceedings, and objections to exemptions.
  7. Identify and complete basic tasks for filing a bankruptcy petition, schedules, and statement of financial affairs, reaffirmation agreements, discharge, distribution of the property of the estate, and closing the case.
  8. Identify the role of lawyers, paralegals, debtors, creditors and other parties in interest, the bankruptcy judge and his or her staff, the office of the clerk of the bankruptcy court, and the various types of trustees operating under the Bankruptcy Act.
  9. Discuss the ethical considerations of paralegals working in a debtor/creditor and bankruptcy law practice.

LEGAL 267: Employment and Labor Law: CD

Credits: 5.0

An introduction to the roles and responsibilities of employers and labor unions from pre-interview and recruiting through termination. Topics include equal employment opportunity, civil rights, fair wages, workplace safety, workers' compensation, medical leave, pension rights, unfair labor practices, and collective bargaining. Prerequisite(s): LEGAL 200 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate a substantive knowledge of basic employment law issues from pre-interview and recruiting practices through termination of employment.
  2. Explain commonly committed workplace torts, including privacy rights violations.
  3. Compare the various types of workplace discrimination prohibited under state and federal laws.
  4. Describe the procedure for filing employment discrimination claims with state and federal agencies.
  5. Understand state and federal workplace safety laws and how workers' compensation claims are processed in Washington State.
  6. Distinguish among the different safety nets available to employees, including social security benefits, health care and unemployment insurance, and pension plans.
  7. Identify unfair labor practices and collective bargaining processes under state and federal labor laws.
  8. Apply the practical skills necessary for a paralegal to work successfully in the area of employment and labor law.
  9. Apply knowledge, awareness, and/or skills to identify and analyze issues related to diversity.

LEGAL 271: Civil Rights

Credits: 3.0

A survey of the broad range of privileges and rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and the subsequent amendments and laws that guarantee fundamental freedoms. Topics include the civil rights movements and anti-discrimination laws related to race, sex, and other classifications, the right to privacy, voting rights, freedom of speech and of the press, the rights of the criminally accused, and religious freedom. Students will also be introduced to civil rights litigation, including under Section 1983. Recent events, legal trends, and current controversies affecting civil rights and civil liberties will also be discussed. No prior legal training or experience is required to take this course.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Explain the difference between civil rights and civil liberties, including the legal foundations for each, as well as how they are enforced under federal and state laws.
  2. Identify the civil liberties protected by the U.S. Constitution, including those addressed in the First Amendment, and their modern applications to the law.
  3. Describe the relevant historical antecedents in the civil rights movement and how civil rights pertaining to race have changed over time, including antislavery, voting rights, housing, public education, and access to public facilities.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of how the women's rights movements of the 19th and 20th centuries, and the modern feminist movement of the 21st century, have affected the law over time, including property ownership, reproductive rights, voting rights, and employment opportunities.
  5. Explain how the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people have evolved in recent decades, including same-sex marriage, adoption, employment and housing, and access to healthcare. 
  6. Discuss the role of other political institutions besides the courts in the development of contemporary civil rights and liberties.
  7. Describe civil rights statutory remedies available for private citizens to address state and local governmental action that infringes on their fundamental rights.
  8. Analyze a hypothetical civil rights case by identifying the key legal issues, applying the law to the facts, and reaching a concise legal conclusion.

LEGAL 273: Racial Justice

Credits: 1.0

This course is an introduction to the current legal challenges to, and strategies for, engaging in racial justice advocacy. This course explores current issues in racial justice, including mass incarceration, voter suppression, and housing inequality.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Explain race as a social construct.
  2. Explain the difference between individual, institutional, and structural racism, as well as the difference between equality and equity.
  3. Examine current forms of institutional and structural racism.
  4. Explain what bias is and how it operates, and apply practical tools for recognizing and interrupting bias.

LEGAL 275: Criminal Law and Procedure

Credits: 5.0

This course examinesthe fundamental concepts of criminal law and procedure from arrest to final disposition, including principles of state and federal law. Emphasis is placed on the constitutional rights of defendants and the role that paralegals play in the criminal justice system.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Define the basic elements of common law crimes, including crimes against persons, habitation, property, public order and safety, and organized crime.
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of the various legal defenses available to a criminal prosecution.
  3. Demonstrate an understanding of criminal pretrial and trial considerations and procedures.
  4. Explain the evidentiary issues and constitutional concerns associated with criminal law and procedure.
  5. Identify a client's individual needs and analyze the legal issues presented in a factual situation.
  6. Develop an understanding of the state and federal constitutional rights of a criminal defendant, and the obligation of the criminal justice system to the accused, by study of the U.S. and Washington state constitutions and interpretive case law.
  7. Demonstrate an understanding of the progress of a criminal case through the state and federal court systems by study of the Rules of Criminal Procedure.
  8. Explain the processes of sentencing, punishment, and appellate review, including how to apply federal and state sentencing guidelines to convictions.
  9. Describe the role of the paralegal in assisting an attorney or group of attorneys in the prosecution or defense of a criminal action, including the drafting of documents and pursuit of pretrial discovery.
  10. Identify the unique ethical and legal rules that apply to the practice of criminal law and procedure, including the ethical obligations of paralegals working in this area of law.

LEGAL 282: Electronic Discovery and Digital Evidence

Credits: 3.0

This course examines the special litigation issues encountered when electronically stored evidence (ESI) is critical to resolving a case. The foundations of electronic discovery (eDiscovery) and legal project management are covered. Students receive training on an industry-standard eDiscovery platform and learn to process, review, tag, and produce electronic documents as part of a lawsuit or investigation. This course helps students prepare for entry-level eDiscovery jobs. Students may elect to take an eDiscovery certification exam, unaffiliated with Edmonds College, which can provide a marketable credential to law firms, vendors, and other eDiscovery employers. Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in LEGAL 205 or instructor permission.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Explain significant eDiscovery terminology, fundamental legal principles, and the Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM) process cycle.
  2. Identify the precedent-setting cases that drive eDiscovery decisions today, including "white papers" written by legal and technical experts.
  3. Summarize the fundamental Sedona Conference principles and decisions and the legal ethics and best practices relating to eDiscovery.
  4. Explain the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) covering eDiscovery matters, including metadata, sanctions, privacy, jurisdiction, litigation holds, data collection, and meet and confer conferences.
  5. Understand how to use an industry standard eDiscovery platform by working as an end user to set up detailed searches and reports, review documents, and handle a quality control (QC) round.
  6. Describe how an eDiscovery platform's various software features help streamline litigation workflows.
  7. Demonstrate problem-solving and analytical thinking skills in evaluating eDiscovery issues.
  8. Understand the project management life cycle and how it helps legal professionals deliver a successful, well-managed eDiscovery project.

LEGAL 291: Legal Internship

Credits: 5.0

An opportunity to receive valuable experience and academic credit as a paralegal intern. Students enrolled in this course can earn one credit for every 30 hours of paralegal work performed during the quarter (five credits maximum) under the direction and supervision of a licensed attorney. For assistance in locating a paralegal internship and to receive an internship packet, interested students are advised to meet with the Paralegal Program's Internship Coordinator and/or the Program Director at least one month before the start of the quarter. This course meets two times; students must attend both classes to receive credit.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Exhibit adequate competency in the areas set forth in the individual goals identified by the student, the student's workplace supervisor, and the instructor.
  2. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to work in a law office or legal department environment.
  3. Understand how to manage time effectively and account for time worked in a law office or legal department.
  4. Describe the structure and functions of a typical law office or legal department.
  5. Apply the education and skills learned in the Paralegal Program to the tasks performed by paralegals in a law office or legal department.
  6. Exercise the ethical responsibilities of a paralegal in a law office or legal department, including proper attorney supervision, client confidentiality, and the unauthorized practice of law.
  7. Summarize and evaluate the internship experience so the student is better informed when choosing future employment.

LEGAL 292: Paralegal Success Skills

Credits: 2.0

This course increases opportunities to locate a paralegal job or internship, and helps students design their personal strategy for career success. Topics include professional networking and branding; workload, time, and stress management; strategies for creating a professional resume; writingeffectivecover letters; and preparing for job interviews. Students are expected to already have an editable/digital draft of their current resume available on the first day of class.To get started, students may consult with the Career Action Center on campus.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Create professionally formatted paralegal resumes and cover letters regardless of one's background or work experience.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of effective job interviewing techniques, and identify common questions and effective answers during a job interview.
  3. Design a personal strategy for professional networking and branding.
  4. Describe effective techniques for managing workload, time, and stress in the workplace.
  5. Explain the importance of a paralegal internship to one's career, and identify effective methods for locating paralegal internships and employment.
  6. Identify the characteristics of a successful paralegal and the opportunities for career advancement through professional certification, licensing, and lifelong learning.

LEGAL 295: Advanced Legal Research and Writing

Credits: 5.0

A systematic study of the advanced legal research and writing methods used by paralegals and other legal professionals, building upon the skills acquired in LEGAL 210. Emphasis is placed on critical analysis of legal authorities, persuasive and objective writing mechanics, and proper legal citation format. Advanced approaches to computer-assisted legal research using Westlaw are also covered. Prerequisite: LEGAL 210 with a minimum grade of 2.0.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate an ability to conduct legal research at an advanced level with primary and secondary materials and evaluate complex legal information.
  2. Formulate advanced search queries in computer-assisted legal research databases, including Westlaw.
  3. Produce advanced citations in their proper format and cite-check citations effectively to verify the accuracy and completeness of legal research.
  4. Apply core legal writing mechanics at an advanced level, including clarity, cohesion, concision, and plain language. 
  5. Distinguish between objective and persuasive legal writing techniques and prepare different types of legal documents in their proper tone and format.
  6. Apply advanced and integrated knowledge of the law to complex issues and critically evaluate the operation of the law from theoretical and practical perspectives.
  7. Compose coherent extended written arguments for a sophisticated legal audience, communicate complex legal concepts effectively, and critique legal research from substantive and structural perspectives.
  8. Construct legal arguments and documents effectively within common time constraints, including deadlines, workload management, and resource allocation.
  9. Reflect on their abilities to undertake individual work effectively, while identifying the ethical constraints placed on nonlawyers to avoid engaging in the unauthorized practice of law.

LEGAL 296: Legal Seminars

Credits: 1.0

A broad overview of specialized or rapidly changing areas of law. Legal seminars are offered to enhance the established program curricula, introduce students to new legal trends, and provide continuing legal education for paralegals and other professionals. No prior legal training or experience is required to take this course.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Demonstrate basic knowledge of the legal issues relating to the specific seminar topic.
  2. Identify the legal resources related to the specific seminar topic for further exploration.

LEGAL 299: Special Project: Paralegal

Credits: 1.0 to 5.0

Individual projects in legal study designed to give exposure to practical problems in areas of particular interest to the student. Credit available with approval. S/U grade only. Prerequisite(s): Permission of department head and project approval of the dean.

Course Level Objectives

  1. Develop and demonstrate expertise in narrow legal specialty areas through projects proposed by student and evaluated by a paralegal instructor.
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