Paralegal Course Outcomes

• LAWS-1010
• LAWS-1080
• LAWS-2020
• LAWS-2040
• LAWS-2050
• LAWS-2070
• LAWS-2090
• LAWS-2095
• LAWS-2100

LAWS-1010 Criminal Law (3 credits)

A foundational study of criminal law, focusing on common law and modern statutory applications. Topics include substantive law, distinction between criminal and civil justice systems, essential elements of crimes, key components to criminal intent and acts, as well as causation and harm. This course also covers defenses such as insanity, entrapment, and others used in U.S. Law. Lecture: 3 hours

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of criminal law in the United States.
• Define the categories, types, and legal implications of crimes.
• Identify the differences between criminal and civil law.
• Examine the constitutional limitations on criminal law.
• Apply the essential elements of criminal law and crimes, with reference to Rhode Island General Laws.

LAWS-1080 Introduction to Law and Legal Studies (3 credits)

Students will be introduced to the law and the American legal system. Topics include legal research and writing, E-Filing, communication skills, law office administration, legal and professional ethics, foundations of substantive and procedural law, legal terminology, the functions of the courts, and the role of attorneys, paralegals, and other legal professionals. Lecture: 3 hours

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following:

• Describe the role, responsibilities, and ethical rules of legal professionals (e.g., attorneys, paralegals) and the varied administrative structures of law firms.
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of American law and the legal system.
• Demonstrate a basic application of legal research, writing, and analysis.
• Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
• Explain the basic legal terminology, concepts of substantive and procedural law, and the functions of the courts.

LAWS-2020 Basic Civil Procedure for Legal Professionals (3 credits)

This course introduces the legal concepts and practical applications of civil litigation using the rules of civil procedure as applied in the federal and state court systems. The course will cover the court system; jurisdiction and venue; pleadings (complaints, answers, counterclaims and cross-claims); and discovery documents (interrogatories, depositions and requests for production). Lecture: 3 hours
 Prerequisite(s): LAWS 1080

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following:

• Differentiate substantive and procedural law and explain the inter-relationship between the two areas.
• Define personal and subject matter jurisdiction involved in civil litigation matters.
• Define the area of remedies in civil litigation matters.
• Draft pleadings and discovery document in proper court format.
• Explain the role of a paralegal in civil litigation matters.

LAWS-2040 Law in Contemporary Society (3 credits)

This course studies adjudicated cases involving the leading social issues affecting society today and the impact such adjudications have had upon society. Stress is placed upon the relationship of law to social values and morals. The delicate balance between the interests of society and individual rights is scrutinized and the students' views as to the maintenance of the balance is evaluated in the light of the cases studied.
Lecture: 3 hours

Prerequisite(s): LAWS 1080

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following:

• Explain the relationship between the law and morality in connection with both society and the legal system.
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills in learning to use the legal approach to problems solving with respect to leading social and legal issues our society faces including, but not limited to such topics as gun control, abortion, drugs, right to die and the death penalty.
• Comprehend and develop an appreciation for both sides of the major social and legal issues addressed in this course along with balancing the interests of society and the rights of the individual.
• Compete and collaborate with other students in defending either side of an argument on any issue related to law and society and lastly, to develop oral and written communication skills in the process.

LAWS-2050 Law of Contracts (3 credits)

This course studies the legal rules, concepts and terminology relating to voluntary agreements entered into for the provision of services or the sale of property. The areas included are agreement, consideration, contractual capacity, legality, genuineness of assent and legal form. Lecture: 3 hours

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following:

• Demonstrate an understanding of legal rules, concepts, requirements, and terminology related to valid legal agreements.
• Interpret the provisions of an existing contract using the essential elements of contract law.
• Identify the rights and obligations of the parties to a contract.
• Explain breach of contract and identify the legal and equitable remedies available.

LAWS-2070 Law of Business Organization (3 credits) 

This course covers the legal requirements to organize a business entity. Topics include types of business organizations, government regulations, business ethics, and sanctions for violations of the law. Lecture: 3 hours

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following:

• Describe the various types of business organizational structures and their legal, financial, and operational implications.
• Draft the foundational legal documents to form a business entity.
• Demonstrate an understanding of registration, reporting, and compliance requirements.
• Identify legal roles, rights, responsibilities and ethical considerations of each business entity.

LAWS-2090 Legal Research and Writing  I^(3 credits) 

Students will learn how to perform procedural aspects of legal research. Students will use primary and secondary legal sources, case digests, search aids (LexisNexis, Westlaw), and citators (Shepard's Citations). Students are expected to complete a case brief and legal memorandum. Lecture: 3 hours

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1010 and LAWS 2020

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following:

• Students will learn how to perform procedural aspects of legal research. Students will use primary and secondary legal sources, case digests, search aids (LexisNexis, Westlaw), and citators (Shepard's Citations). Students are expected to complete a case brief and legal memorandum.
• Distinguish between primary, secondary, and persuasive legal authority.
• Prepare a legal brief of a court decision incorporating critical facts, issue(s), applicable law, and conclusion.
• Effectively prepare a comprehensive legal memorandum including proper legal format and accurate citations.

LAWS-2095 Legal Research and Writing II^ (3 credits)

This course is a work-based, hands-on experience integrating information and skills learned in previous legal courses. The course is divided into three segments: completing the Paralegal Portfolio, preparing a criminal case file, and preparing a civil case file. Students will be exposed to professional networking with an opportunity for mentorship. This course is intended for students in their final semester of the Paralegal program. Lecture: 3 hours

Prerequisite(s): LAWS 2090

LAWS-2100 Tort and Personal Injury Law (3 credits) 

This course involves the study of civil wrongs that result in injuries to person, property, or relationships. Students will examine types of torts (intentional, negligence, and strict liability), causation, and damages. Topics include defamation, fraud, professional malpractice, products and premises liability, and impact of insurance. Lecture: 3 hours

Prerequisite(s): LAWS 1080

As a result of taking this course, students will be able to do the following: