Introduction to Legal Studies

This course includes an introduction to the American legal system with emphasis on the organization of the federal and state government and court systems, and the procedural steps involved in litigating a dispute. Students will be introduced to legal ethics, legal research, critical thinking, and legal reasoning skills. The role of paralegals will be examined. The course also surveys substantive areas of law including torts, contract law, property & estate law, business law, family law, and criminal law and procedure. *This course is part of a Paralegal certificate package.