LEI 248 ADMINISTRATIVE LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
A survey course of basic areas and concerns of administrative law. Administrative law defines the legal powers of government agencies and the limits of these powers. Topics covered in the course include: structure of administrative agencies, agency discretion, rules and regulations, investigations, informal and formal proceedings, and judicial review. Each class the student will be provided with exercise and examples of the practical aspects of the paralegal's role in administrative law. (Prerequisite Intro to Law).
LEI 130 ADVANCED LITIGATION (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Practical application of civil practice and trial process accomplished by use of the problem method and case files which must be prepared for discovery, trial and post-trial motions. Familiarization of case files, review and preparation of trial notebook indexing depositions, document control, and distribution of case files. Emphasize is also placed on discovery investigation techniques and trial preparation. (Prerequisite: Civil Practice and Intro to Law)
LEI 230 ADVANCED PARALEGAL SEMINAR (Legal Elective) 3 credits
An overview and analysis of the justice system using literature, film, drama and other media. Focus will be on current issues regarding the legal system, e.g., the existence of gender bias, the court of public opinion, the legal system as a force for social change, and how morality relates to law. Class is writing-intensive. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Legal Research I and Legal Research II) No Exam.
LEI 135 ADVANCED RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE FOR PARALEGALS (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Students will learn how to prepare and/or complete all documents necessary for a residential and commercial real estate closing. Each document will be explained in detail, and students will learn how to obtain all necessary information to complete each document. Students will learn about HUD-1 settlement sheets, mortgages, promissory notes, deeds, affidavit of title, title insurance, surveys, legal descriptions, agreements of sale, etc. Students will also be involved in mock real estate settlements. Each student will prepare a real estate closing binder in connection with a real estate transaction, including the preparation and/or completion of all of the above listed documents. (Prerequisite: Real Estate; Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 234 ALCOHOL, VEHICLE, AND THE LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Students will study procedures from the arrest and filing of a criminal complaint to sentencing. Preparation of documentation of motions for discovery, motions to suppress evidence, briefs, and preparation of a pre-sentence investigation will be covered, as well as alternate forms of research, such as reviewing existing criminal files. Students also will do legal research of both case law and criminal procedure. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Intro to Criminal Justice)
LEI 227 ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Students will gain practical insight in the theory that there are alternative means of deciding and going forward with a case. In depth discussion will include mediation, arbitration, private counseling and negotiation. Emphasis will be placed on time considerations, efficiency in handling a case, expertise in alternative resolution, and cost factors. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Civil Practice)
LEI 208 BANKRUPTCY ( Legal Elective) 3 credits
Comprehensive study of bankruptcy law and practice with an emphasis on consumer filings. Course consists of reviewing different types of consumer and commercial bankruptcies; relevant federal legislation governing bankruptcy; bankruptcy code; and resource materials necessary to bankruptcy practice. Course also places emphasis on procedural rules and responsibilities of all parties involved. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Legal Research I and Civil Practice)
LEI 202 CONSTITUTIONAL LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Survey of constitutional law providing students with an overview of the following areas: Judicial, legislative and executive powers, property rights, due process, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to privacy and discrimination. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 244 CORPORATE BANKRUPTCY (Legal Elective) 3 credits
A course specializing in the area of Corporate Bankruptcy and the integral role of the paralegal in this area of practice. Students will become familiar with the different types of commercial bankruptcy and understand what it means for a corporation to file for bankruptcy. In addition, the students will learn the entire process and relevant procedures as they apply to a Chapter 11 filing. File management, case management and electronic filing of documents will be covered utilizing hypothetical case scenarios. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Civil Practice)
LEI 245 CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (Legal Elective) 3 credits
An advanced course in criminal law and procedure, where students will learn about the areas of bail arraignment, alternate resolutions, pretrial motions, trial skills and sentencing. Students will be provided a 'clinic-like' experience with ample opportunity to have practical skills in all topical areas. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Intro to Criminal Justice)
LEI 247 DEBTOR/CREDITOR RELATIONS (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course will examine the creation of debtor/creditor relationships, the documentation associated with such relationships, the legal rights of all parties to those relationships, the role of guarantors and third parties, methods of creditor protection such as liens, UCC secured interests, purchase money liens, and mortgages, as well as the rights and remedies of the parties when the relationship breaks down and the collection process ensues. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 133 DISCRIMINATION AND THE LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course surveys the law surrounding discrimination based on race, gender, disability and other protected categories. The focus will be on discrimination in the context of employment and education. Topics will include sexual harassment, affirmative action and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 223 EFFECTIVE EXECUTIVE DECISION MAKING (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course will examine the decision making process of those individuals in a managerial position in law firms, corporations, and the courts. Emphasis will be placed on the types of decisions necessary to manage law firms, corporations, and the courts.
(Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 242 ELDER LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course provides a comprehensive view of one of the fastest growing areas of the legal profession. Upon completion of the course you will have an understanding of the different areas of the law that impact the elderly and their advocates. Among the topics covered are medicaid planning, guardianships, estate planning, elder abuse and neglect, ethical considerations and much more. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law, Legal Research I and Wills and Trusts)
LEI 115 EMPLOYMENT LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
An examination into the area of employment disputes. Employer and employee relationships. Topics include: American Disabilities Act (ADA); Federal Statutes and Regulations; Arbitration; Bargaining Strategies; Labor Law and Employment Contracts; and Employment Protection and Equal Opportunities. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 108 ENVIRONMENTAL LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Survey of the fundamental principles that govern and shape the environmental law field. Course will include study of administrative law principles, agency regulations, population, land use and resource abuse. Emphasis will be placed on federal and state statutes, role of the judiciary, insurance coverages, and environmental responsibility. In addition, toxic torts, investigation and environmental litigation will be discussed. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 241 ESTATE ADMINISTRATION (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course serves as a guide through each stage of estate administration including the probate process, inventory and appraisement of assets, preparation of inheritance and federal estate tax returns and distribution issues. Introduction to estate administration software, case management, tickler systems and ethical considerations in assisting estate administration clients will be among the practical aspects of the course. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Legal Research I and Wills and Trusts)
LEI 120 ESTATE PLANNING (Legal Elective) 3 credits
An examination of the different types of Estate Planning, tools available to an estate planner. Tools include: wills; various trusts; deductions; and credits. In addition, the use of the 706 and its preparation will be discussed. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Legal Research I, and Wills and Trusts)
LEI 207 FAMILY LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Survey of the legal structure of the family with emphasis on the law of marriage, divorce, child custody and support. Emphasis will be placed on marriage issues such as, formation of marriages, anti nuptial agreements, termination of marriage, and tax consequences. The course also will contain child issues such as legal status of children, child custody, child support,
and adoption. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 210 FEDERAL INCOME TAX (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Analysis of income taxation, the definition of gross income, exemptions, exclusions and deductions, and related issues. Examination of common federal taxation forms and schedules. Emphasis will be placed on tax accounting income, exclusions and deductions, for both businesses and individuals. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 127 FILE MANAGEMENT (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Students will be given various disorganized case files, including correspondence, pleadings, discovery (i.e., interrogatories, requests for production, deposition notices, etc.), deposition transcripts, attorney notes, research, and other typical documents which may be found in a real-life case file. Class discussion will deal with how to (I) properly organize a case file, (ii) digest depositions, (iii) prepare pleading and discovery binders, and (iv) preparation of tickler and calendar system. Each student will turn in a completely organized case file at the end of the semester. This class is intended to give students practical experience in file management. This class has no exams, but multiple projects. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Law)
LEI 222 HEALTH CARE LAW & ETHICS (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Course involves the legal aspects involved in today=s health-care field as it relates to the health-care providers, the administrative staff, the patient and the health insurance companies. Current legislation and regulatory issues will be explored along with legal aspects of medical ethics. (Prerequisite: Intro to Legal Nurse Consultant, Legal Research I and Principles & Practices of Legal Nurse Consultant)
LEI 235 HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course will cover all aspects of human resource management for the paralegal from recruiting to saying a farewell to your staff. Topics will include: legal requirements of hiring; staff development, retention, and training; telecommuting and telework, flexible employment situations, temporary help, business ethics; employee relations; business psychology; privacy and date protection; Internet and E-mail; employee problems with legal and illegal drugs and alcohol; record keeping; budgeting, payroll and finance; and firing, lay-offs, and downsizing. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Law)
LEI 229 INSURANCE (Legal Elective) 3 credits
A survey of the common types of insurance contracts, such as life, disability, accident and health, public liability and professional liability as well as an analysis of the terms of insurance contracts as applied to actual cases and situations. Emphasis will be placed on characteristics of life insurance policies, legal aspects of insurance, negligence and federal regulations. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 240 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY (Legal Elective) 3 credits
An overview of the classes of intellectual property including U.S. patents copyrights, trademarks and servicemarks with emphasis on the paralegal=s role in securing intellectual property rights, ownership issues and licensing of intellectual property i.e. technology transfer. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 216 INTERVIEWING & INVESTIGATION (Legal Elective) 3 credits
An in-depth study of principles, methods and investigative techniques utilized to locate, gather, document, and disseminate information. The emphasis will be on developing interviewing and investigating skills intended to prepare paralegals to communicate effectively. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 246 INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Is intended as a general introduction to the basics of forensic science. This introductory level course will cover areas of interest to those working in legal nurse consulting, the paralegal profession and law enforcement. General areas to be covered include: reviewing and understanding the autopsy report including bodily changes after death, specifics associated with strangulation, gunshot wounds, toxicology reports, medical records associated with sexual assault cases as well as terminology associated with these reports. Students will develop skills to analyze and scrutinize reports generated from the use of forensic DNA testing including reviewing the collection and testing techniques. The use of references and the internet will be covered. Actual case examples will be utilized when applicable. Coursework assumes NO prior forensic experience. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law or Intro to Legal Nurse Consultant)
LEI 231 INTRODUCTION TO LEGAL NURSE CONSULTANT (Required LNC) 3 credits
Identification of the role of the Legal Nurse Consultant in the legal field. Areas of practice and professional responsibilities of the Legal Nurse Consultant will be examined.
LEI 147 JUDICIAL PROCESS (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course will consist of a study of the judicial process in the American political system. Topics include judicial decision-making, organization of the court systems, process by court administrators, judges and law offices to prepare a case for trial. Legal developments in the judicial system as well as the relationship between law and social change will be explored. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Civil Practice)
LEI 126 JUVENILE JUSTICE (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course will examine the legal structure of the family with emphasis on juvenile law as it applies to minors. Emphasis will be placed on the rights of minors and the family court system. (Prequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 211 LAW OFFICE MANAGEMENT (Legal Elective) 3 credits
A review of the common management techniques used in law offices, including case management, document control, time accounting, trust accounting and other elements of the well-managed law practice. Emphasis is also placed on employment policies, hiring policies, discrimination in the workplace, revenue and expenses, professional development and law office disasters.
(Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 124 LEGAL ACCOUNTING (Legal Elective) 3 credits
A study of the organization of the data received by business enterprises, analysis of the balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and discussion of common accounting concepts such as realization of income, allocation of expenses and depreciation of assets. Emphasis will be placed on the accounting process, assets and liabilities, corporate equity, generally accepted accounting principles, balance sheets, and financial analyses. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law)
LEI 110 LEGAL DOCUMENT DRAFTING (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course consists of hands-on practical experience through drafting of wills, trust, deeds, answers, complaints, and interrogatories. Students will use mock scenarios where they represent clients and draft documents to fit their client's needs in the role of a paralegal. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Legal Research I and Civil Practice)
LEI 220 MALPRACTICE (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course will consist of the following topics: Establishing the Professional Relationship, Negligence--Based Claims, International Torts, Informed Decision Making, Causation and Damages, Affirmative Defenses, Limitations and Immunities, Vicarious Liability and Multiple Defendants, Hospital Liability, Contract, Warranty and Strict Liability, and Reform action of the Litigation System.
(Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Legal Research I; Civil Practice and Torts)
LEI 233 MENTORSHIP (Required LNC) 3 credits
Students will be introduced to environments where Legal Nurse Consulting is practiced. These include, but are not limited to; law firms, insurance companies, state agencies, independent practice, and/or risk management areas. Students will be paired with a Legal Nurse Consultant on a rotating basis in order to gain first-hand practical knowledge of the role of the Legal Nurse Consultant. (Prerequisites: Introduction to Legal Nurse Consultant; Legal Research I & II; Torts and Civil Practice)
LEI 215 PENSION & PROFIT SHARING (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Analysis of employee benefits other than salary or wages, with emphasis on qualified pension plans and non-taxable fringe benefits. Emphasis will be placed on choosing a qualified plan, planned design, installation and administration of plans, individual retirement accounts, health insurance, life insurance and disability insurance. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 209 PRACTICUM (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Internship and externship experiences for paralegal studies students. Practicums are available on campus with one of the law school's clinical programs. Off-campus experiences include working in law firms, corporations, law enforcement or public agencies and the court systems. (Prerequisites: Introduction to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 232 PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF THE LEGAL NURSE CONSULTANT (Required LNC) 3 credits
A comprehensive survey of the major functions of the Legal Nurse Consultant. Students will analyze cases from both the plaintiff and defense perspective, and examine the Legal Nurse Consultant=s rule in both civil and criminal litigation cases. Emphasis will be placed on business principles and practices, the examination of medical records and development of life care plans. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Legal Nurse Consultant and Legal Research I and Civil Pratice)
LEI 203 REAL ESTATE (Legal Elective) 3 credits
A comprehensive survey of the modern real estate property transaction, covering the drafting of basic documents involved in transfer of land such as deeds, mortgages, sales agreements and options, and a review of federal and state regulation of land transfer. Emphasis is placed on ownership rights, survey and land descriptions, encumbrances, easements and licenses, financing, title examinations, real estate closings and leases. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Law)
LEI 221 REMEDIES (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course explores the non-monetary remedies and damages available to litigants in state and federal courts. These remedies are known as equitable relief. The course will review declaratory relief, specific performance, temporary restraining orders, interlocutory and permanent injunctions, as well as other forms of equitable relief. The course will also explore the equitable defenses of estoppel, fraud, unclean hands and laches. The student will develop an understanding of the forms of relief available to a litigant when money damages are insufficient to fully compensate the litigant for his or her injuries. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Legal Research I and Contracts)
LEI 237 SEX CRIMES (Legal Elective) 3 credits
This course is designed to give an overview of sex crimes, to include sexual abuse of children, date rape, rape by a stranger, consensual sex crimes, and other related issues such as the Adate-rape@ drug and special sanctions for offenders with transmittable diseases. The purpose of this course is to heighten awareness of the specific problems in handling these issues in the criminal justice system and will analyze potential hazards in defending/prosecuting cases. Assignments will include sharing of related current events with the class, discussing assigned readings and reviewing actual court documents relating to sex crimes. (Prerequisite: Introduction to Criminal Justice and Intro to Law)
LEI 213 TORTS AND PERSONAL INJURY LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Complete overview of tort and personal injury law. Emphasis will be placed on intentional torts, tort defenses, negligence, strict liability and products liability. Tort immunities and specific tort actions of nuisance and wrongful death will also be covered. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law or Intro to Legal Nurse Consultant)
LEI 217 VIOLENCE AND THE LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Examination of how the law treats violent incidents, with particular emphasis on spousal and child abuse. Students will review the Protection From Abuse laws of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Students will also examine juvenile violence and school violence. A major research paper is required for this course. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law; Intro to Criminal Justice and Legal Research I)
LEI 201 WILLS & TRUSTS (Bach & Certificate) 3 credits
Study of the law of testamentary disposition, of the common instruments used in testamentary dispositions, the formalities for validity, construction and interpretation of wills, trusts and other post-death transfer devices. Emphasis will be placed on the probate process, estate administration and federal and state tax concerns. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)
LEI 228 WORKER'S COMPENSATION LAW (Legal Elective) 3 credits
Class focuses on the acquisition of knowledge and skills in worker's compensation law. Special emphasis will be placed upon how worker's compensation claims are investigated and prepared for trial. (Prerequisite: Intro to Law and Legal Research I)