PAL 111(3-0-3)
Survey of American Law
This course is an introduction to the law and legal system of the United States and the individual states. It first examines the roles of the participants from lawmakers and judges to attorneys, legal assistants and litigants. Ethical considerations for these parties are also discussed. Sources of law and the part played by each branch of government in producing law is analyzed. Broad areas of substantive law relating to contracts, torts, crimes, property and personal rights are examined, with the focus on constitutional, statutory and common law developments in these areas.
F,S
PAL 112(3-0-3)
Legal Research
This course is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to accurately and efficiently research virtually any topic in the law. In addition to providing a background for understanding the tools used, students are taught the fundamental techniques of how to find applicable legal principles and authority among primary and secondary sources of law. Methods for updating the law, through the use of Shepard's Citations and other tools, are presented so that the legal research product will be accurate and timely.
PR: PAL 111
F,S
PAL 114(3-0-3)
Courts and Litigation
This course surveys New York and federal courts and jurisdiction, and focuses on procedure, concentrating on New York civil practice. Studies in legal research are continued with emphasis placed on the preparation of forms, briefs, affidavits and pleadings.
PR: PAL 111
F,S
PAL 217(3-0-3)
Estates and Trusts
This course is a study of the substantive and procedural laws of estates, trusts, guardianships, fiduciaries, and estate taxation.
PR: PAL 111, PAL 112
F
PAL 219(3-0-3)
Real Property
This course introduces the law of real property and terminology of real estate interests and conveyances. Real property instruments are defined and examined, including the different types and nature of contracts, deeds, mortgages and leases. Acquisition and loss of real property interests by means other than deeds (such as adverse possession, prescription and inheritance) are also examined. Students prepare an abstract of title by examining recorded instruments.
PR: PAL 111
F,S
PAL 231(3-0-3)
Family Law
This course is a study of the law of domestic relations and family law. This includes the substantive law of marriage, adoption, divorce, annulment, separation, family obligations, children's rights and procedural laws concerning Family Court proceedings. Also included will be experience in the drafting of documents and instruments related to the aforesaid subjects.
PR: PAL 111
F,S
PAL 233(3-0-3)
Administrative Law
This course is a study of the nature and sources of administrative law, special problems relating thereto and the place of administrative action in our governmental and legal systems.
PR: PAL 111 and 112
F,S
PAL 250(1-8-3)
Paralegal Internship
This course provides the paralegal student with the opportunity to participate in a planned, professional experience of observation, study, and field work within selected professional entities. Textbook theory and classroom experience is enhanced as the student works in an appropriately supervised setting. The field study will specifically incorporate paralegal related assignments. All field work will be supplemented by regularly scheduled seminars with the instructor. There is a final report and oral presentation due at the end of the semester.
PR: matriculation in the Paralegal program, completion of 30 credit hours, completion of PAL 111, PAL 112, PAL 114, minimum overall G.P.A. of 2.5, and permission of the department
S