Paralegal Courses

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. Students discuss ethical considerations for these parties. Students analyze sources of law and the part played by each branch of government in producing law. Students examine broad areas of substantive law relating to contracts, torts, crimes, property and personal rights with the focus on constitutional, statutory and common law developments in these areas. 

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

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

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. 
Fall only 
PR: PAL 111, PAL 112

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

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 laws 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

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

PAL 250 (0-0-3)

Paralegal Internship

This course provides the opportunity to explore and gain experience in a career area related to the paralegal profession. Textbook theory and classroom experience is enhanced while working in a supervised professional setting. The field study will incorporate paralegal or law-related assignments. All field work will be supplemented by scheduled meetings with the instructor. The course requires completion of 120 hours of field work. Grading is on a pass/fail basis. 
PR: Paralegal major, completion of 30 credit hours, completion of PAL 112 and PAL 114, minimum G.P.A. of 2.5, and permission of the Division.