Legal Research and Writing Syllabus for 2014-2015
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Course

LGLA-1301-001 Legal Research and Writing

Prerequisites

Prerequisites: ENGL 1301, POFI 2301, LGLA 1307 and BCIS 1305 or department chair consent

Course Description

This course provides a working knowledge of fundamentals of effective legal research and writing. Topics include law library techniques, computer assisted legal research, briefs and legal memoranda.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

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Supplies

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Student Performance

LEARNING OUTCOMES:  At the conclusion of this course, the student will be able to analyze a fact situation, identify potential legal issues, identify appropriate law sources and legal authorities, provide a written summary of his or her findings in the appropriate legal format which analyzes the facts, legal issues, authorities, and makes a useful conclusion which applies the legal authorities to the facts.

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PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:   After studying the material presented in this course of study, the student will be able to do the following as evaluated by the faculty in the Paralegal Studies program:

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1. Identify the primary sources of law in America at the state and federal level.
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2. Identify secondary sources of law and legal opinion.
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3. Analyze and identify legal issues in a fact situation.
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4. Use appropriate legal sources to find law applicable to resolving specific legal questions:
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5. Validate law sources.
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6. Use LEXIS and the internet to conduct legal research.
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7. Prepare a written memorandum which identifies the legal question(s) presented by a fact situation, identifies the applicable legal authorities, provides a written summary and analysis of their findings, and applies the findings to the legal issues presented by the facts.
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Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

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Expected Student Behavior

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Grading Criteria

GRADING CRITERIA:

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Tests	25%
Final Examination	25%
Legal Memorandum	25%
Projects and Class Participation	25%

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 CLASS PARTICIPATION:  To receive an A for class participation you must attend regularly, complete all assignments, and participate in class discussions in a positive fashion.

Attendance

\ Employees in the business world are expected to be at work each day; therefore, students in paralegal studies classes are expected to be in class promptly and regularly.

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Additional Information

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