Paralegal

This course covers an overview of all phases of civil litigation. Emphasis will be on civil "causes of action" (claims) and defenses at common law, under statutes, and based in tort law and contract law. Functional skills acquired include preparing and maintaining the file, gathering information through client and witness interviews, investigation, drafting pleadings and motions, organizing and indexing documents, compiling evidence, examining public records, preparing briefs and memoranda, preparing discovery, and assisting the lawyer in preparing for trial and at trial.

This course covers the fundamental principles and procedures in the practice of real estate law. The student will be capable of assisting in most phases of residential real estate transactions. Functional skills acquired include reviewing and understanding real estate instruments and documents, title insurance binders and policies, surveys; assisting in the preparation and drafting of deeds, purchase and sales contracts, title affidavits, escrow agreements, use and occupancy agreements, notes, mortgages and related financing documents; and preparing for and attending residential closings.

This course will enable the student to be capable of assisting in the probating, planning and administration of the probate estate. Functional skills acquired include assisting in the preparation of simple wills, revocable trusts, irrevocable trusts, assisting in the preparation of probate documents including inventory forms, final accounting forms, maintaining accounts, and assisting the attorney in the remainder of the probate process. The course will also examine living wills, estate planning, and estate taxes.

In this course, the student will examine the significant legal concepts, principles, legal doctrines, procedures and practice of criminal law in the local and state (according to New Hampshire law and procedure) and federal court systems; and will trace the steps by which the criminal procedure is followed: from stop and arrest, prosecution, the initial client interview, pre-trial, through trial, and post-trial procedure, motions and appeals.

The Paralegal Capstone Course is designed to prepare the student for obtaining and maintaining employment in the paralegal profession. Students will discuss the application of their knowledge of the law and the legal system, the practical knowledge necessary for successfully working as a paralegal in the field of law, and a review of the ethical rules governing attorneys. The students will review the major skills they acquired during the Paralegal Studies Program and apply them to practical assignments and projects. Students will also complete a Portfolio containing selections of their legal work-product, and will prepare a professional resume which best presents their attributes and employment potential. This course will also prepare the student for the employment process, from job search through interview and hiring.

The Internship and Seminar in Paralegal Studies consists of: 1) an internship which is a hands-on learning experience at law firm, public agency, corporation, or other law-related organization, under the direct supervision of a lawyer; and, 2) a capstone seminar of one class contact hour per week designed to prepare the student for obtaining and maintaining employment in the paralegal profession.