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Course Descriptions—Legal Studies (LGST)

LGST 101 Introduction to Law (3)

A survey of the U.S. legal system and the role of the paralegal in the legal environment. Topics include the organization and powers of federal and state lawmaking institutions, court procedures, and the analysis of statutory provisions and judicial opinions. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 101 or PLGL 101.

LGST 200 Techniques of Legal Research (3)

Prerequisite or corequisite: LGST 101. An introduction to the book-based methods used to locate relevant, mandatory, and current rules and interpretations. Topics include the analysis, publication, and citation of judicial opinions, statutory provisions, and administrative law and the features and use of secondary sources, digests, and citators. Computer-assisted research systems are introduced, but assignments require legal research on-site in a library with a hard-copy law collection. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 200 or PLGL 200.

LGST 201 Legal Writing (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 200. An introduction to the principles of writing clearly and effectively in the legal environment. Emphasis is on types of documents that paralegals may be called upon to draft, including intake memos, legal synthesis and office memos, and client letters. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 201 or PLGL 201.

LGST 204 Legal Ethics (3)

A survey of basic principles relating to the ethical practice of law. Rules and guidelines governing the ethical conduct of lawyers and nonlawyers are covered, as are law office management principles relevant to ethical requirements. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 204 or PLGL 204.

LGST 223 Investigative Techniques (3)

An exploration of the techniques for gathering factual information relevant to legal situations. Topics include interviewing and using a wide variety of print and online resources to obtain information related to individuals, businesses, institutions, and organizations. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CCJS 220, LGST 223, or PLGL 223.

LGST 312 Torts (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of the causes of action, defenses, and remedies in the major categories of tort law, as well as tortlitigation procedures and writings for which a paralegal may be responsible. Topics include intentional torts, negligence, strict liability, damages, and civil procedures. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 312 or PLGL 312.

LGST 314 Workers’ Compensation Law (1)

A thorough study of the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act and the practice of workers’ compensation law in Maryland. Practical aspects of the workers’ compensation system (including jurisdiction, employer/employee relationships, injuries covered by the Act, defenses, compensation benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and appeals) are covered. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 314 or PLGL 398H.

LGST 315 Domestic Relations (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of the various legal aspects of family law. Emphasis is on the processes, procedures, and writings a paralegal may handle. Topics include divorce, separation, and annulment; child custody and visitation; and alimony, child support, disposition of property, and legal rights of children. Relevant aspects of civil procedures, enforcement, and the modification of orders and agreements are covered. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: FMCD 487, LGST 315, or PLGL 315.

LGST 316 Estates and Probate (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of the legal concepts entailed in drafting and preparing simple wills and administering estates in Maryland, as well as the processes, procedures, and writings for which a paralegal may be responsible. Topics include preliminary and practical considerations of administering an estate; the appraisal of estate assets and probate inventory; inheritance taxes; claims against the estate; management of debts, accounting, and distribution considerations; the drafting and execution of wills; and guardianships. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 316, PLGL 216, or PLGL 316.

LGST 320 Criminal Law and Procedures (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of the substantive and procedural aspects of the criminal justice system, particularly those aspects related to the work of a paralegal. Topics include crimes and defenses, penalties, and court procedures. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CJUS 234, LGST 320, or PLGL 320.

LGST 322 Evidence (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of laws that govern the admissibility of evidence for establishing or controverting facts in trials and administrative proceedings, and the role of the paralegal in gathering evidence and helping attorneys prepare for trial. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 322, PLGL 222, or PLGL 322.

LGST 325 Litigation (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An examination of the process of civil litigation and the responsibilities commonly assigned to paralegals. Topics include investigation and interviewing, preparation of pleadings and motions, discovery, the conduct of the trial, and post-trial activity. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 325 or PLGL 325.

LGST 327 Alternative Dispute Resolution (3)

An overview of the various processes and techniques to settle disputes without court adjudication. Topics include negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 327, PLGL 327, or PLGL 398G.

LGST 330 Administrative Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An overview of the functions and procedures of federal and state administrative agencies, as well as preparation of writings pertinent to administrative law practice. Topics include rulemaking, adjudication, the use and control of agency discretion, and disclosure of information. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 330 or PLGL 330.

LGST 335 Elder Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An overview of legal issues that are increasingly relevant as the older population increases. Topics include health care, public entitlements, and legal and financial decision making. Emphasis is on the role of the paralegal in those areas. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 335, PLGL 335, or PLGL 398E.

LGST 340 Contract Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A comprehensive study of the major areas of contract law that paralegals are most likely to encounter. Topics include formation, interpretation and enforcement, discharge, and breach and remedies for breach. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 340 or PLGL 340.

LGST 343 Real Estate Transactions (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of the essentials of real estate law. Emphasis is on settlement procedures in Maryland, especially the processes, procedures, and writings for which a paralegal may be responsible. Topics include real estate contracts, types and sources of mortgage financing, title work, and closing and settlement. Other topics include easements and covenants and condos, PUDs, and co-ops. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 343 or PLGL 343.

LGST 345 Landlord Tenant Law (1)

A nuts-and-bolts study of landlord/tenant issues. Focus is on the rights and obligations of landlords in rental properties and the rights of tenants and how to assert those rights. Topics include lease provisions and eviction processes and how to defend against eviction. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 345 or PLGL 398K.

LGST 350 Sports Law (3)

(Formerly LGST 398A.) Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of the laws that apply to sports and the role paralegals may play. Topics include the laws that apply to the business of sports and issues such as ethics, contracts, Title IX, representation of athletes, and drug testing. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 350 or LGST 398A.

LGST 360 Computer Application in the Legal Environment (3)

(Course activities require access to a standard office productivity package, i.e., word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software.) Prerequisite: IFSM 201. An overview of uses of computer software in the legal environment. The concepts and theory of computer operations are explained in the context of needs analysis for law firms. Emphasis is on applications such as text processing, database management, electronic spreadsheets, timekeeping, docket control, and litigation support. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CAPP 343, LGST 360, or PLGL 360.

LGST 363A Computer-Assisted Litigation Support (3)

(Course activities require access to a standard office productivity package, i.e., word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software.) Prerequisites: IFSM 201 and LGST 325. A focused study of the use of text processing, database management, and electronic spreadsheets to support litigation. Topics include document discovery; document coding and abstracting; search and retrieval methods; project management; and preparing trial exhibits, presentations, and other visual aids. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 363A or PLGL 363A.

LGST 370 Advanced Legal Analysis (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An advanced study of the legal analysis skills needed by the paralegal to successfully complete a variety of tasks in the legal environment. Skills covered include spotting and framing legal issues, analyzing and applying relevant law to predict and advocate the outcome of legal issues, and using legal rules and interpretations to develop informal and formal discovery plans. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 370 or PLGL 370.

LGST 398B Public Housing (1)

A thorough review of federal and state law pertaining to public housing, designed to prepare the paralegal to represent individuals in public housing cases. Topics include admission and eligibility requirements, preferences and admissions, rent computation procedures, lease requirements, repair requirements, security deposits, rent increases, recertification of income, and termination proceedings. Practical aspects are covered including procedures in formal and informal hearings.

LGST 398C Social Security Cases (1)

A thorough review of the pertinent Social Security regulations, case law, and procedure for Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) cases, designed to prepare the paralegal to represent individuals at Social Security Administration hearings. Focus is on practical aspects, such as cross-examining vocational experts, analyzing medical records, preparing witness and client direct examination and opening statements and closing arguments, and evaluating hypothetical client cases.

LGST 398D Drug and Alcohol Cases in Maryland (1)

A hands-on survey of the statutes, regulations, and case law governing the sentencing, commitment, and treatment of drug and alcohol offenders in Maryland, including those with dual diagnoses. Procedures and forms are discussed and illustrated.

LGST 398F Civil Litigation Filings in Federal Court (1)

A study of the rules and practical aspects of civil trial filings in federal court, specifically the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Topics include review of the federal court system; applicable rules of federal civil procedure, including those pertaining to federal court jurisdiction; determining whether federal or local court rules apply; preparation and filing of complaints, motions, discovery, and other pleadings; and service of process. Focus is on learning how to assist attorneys with preparing and filing pleadings, including complaints, discovery, answers, and motions (such as those for postponement of trial). Discussion covers practical considerations, including location of courts, courthouse etiquette, copy requirements, obtaining copies of documents from court, and organization of trial folders.

LGST 398G Civil Litigation Filings in Maryland State Courts (1)

A study of the rules and practical aspects of civil trial filings in Maryland district and circuit courts. Topics include the applicable Maryland rules of civil procedure, including those pertaining to jurisdiction of district and circuit courts; the filing of complaints, motions, and other pleadings; and service of process. Focus is on learning how to assist attorneys with preparing and filing pleadings, including complaints, discovery, answers, and motions (such as those for postponement of trial). Discussion covers practical considerations, including location of courts, courthouse etiquette, copy requirements, obtaining copies of documents from court, and organization of trial folders.

LGST 398H Immigration Law: Deportation and Removal (1)

(Designed primarily for students with prior experience or study in the area of immigration law.) A hands-on survey of immigration statutes, regulations, and case law as they relate to deportation and removal proceedings. Topics include the types of applications that can be filed to prevent deportation or removal; the procedural rules of the Immigration Courts in Baltimore, Maryland, and Arlington, Virginia; and the types of evidence that can be submitted to defend against deportation or removal. Procedures and forms are illustrated.

LGST 398J Elder Guardianships in Maryland (1)

A thorough review of the statutes and regulations pertaining to elder guardianships in Maryland and the student’s role in assisting attorneys in representing elderly clients and/or their families. Topics include the guardianship process, qualifications of the petitioner for guardianship, postpetition procedures, obtaining emergency guardianships, obtaining medical records of the alleged disabled, and avoiding guardianships with advance directives. Discussion also covers guardianship of person and property, eligibility for guardianship, appointment of counsel for the alleged disabled, and guardian reporting and oversight. Procedure and forms, including petitions and show cause orders, are illustrated.

LGST 398Q Discovery Fundamentals (1)

A thorough study of the rules and practical aspects of preparing and responding to discovery requests in Maryland and federal courts and the paralegal’s role in the discovery process. Topics include applicable Maryland and federal rules of procedure; applicable privileges; significance of the discovery process; ethical obligations with regard to discovery responses; and tactical considerations in responding to discovery requests. Focus is on learning how to assist attorneys with the preparation and filing of discovery requests (such as interrogatories, requests for admissions, requests for production of documents, subpoenas, and deposition notices) and on preparing responses to discovery, including initial disclosure obligations under the federal rules. Discussion also covers electronic discovery and practical considerations, such as managing and maintaining discovery files.

LGST 398U Diversity Issues in Dispute Resolution (1)

A study of the influence of race, ethnicity, gender, nationality, religiosity, and other social group designations on approaches to and course of conflict, with focus on legal disputes. Topics include stereotyping, cultural differences in approaches to conflict, and the impact of bigotry and discrimination on the course of conflict. Strategies for effectively dealing with these issues in legal, dispute-resolution, and personal settings are considered.

LGST 398W Domestic Violence Cases in Maryland (1)

A thorough review of statutes and court rules pertaining to domestic violence cases in Maryland. Focus is on acquiring the knowledge to assist attorneys in representing victims in criminal and civil court proceedings. Procedures and forms, including protective order/peace order petitions and motions, are illustrated. Topics include the victim’s socioeconomic status, race/ ethnicity, gender, and culture and resources outside the court system.

LGST 400 Advanced Legal Research and Analysis (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 200. A focused look at identifying legal issues and supportive primary and secondary legal authority using a variety of tools in Lexis, Westlaw, and the Internet. Students learn to develop research strategies to perform complex legal research and extensive legal analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 400 or PLGL 400.

LGST 401 Advanced Legal Writing (3)

Prerequisites: LGST 201 and 204. A thorough grounding in the principles and techniques of drafting sophisticated legal memoranda that paralegals may be called upon to prepare. Kinds of writings that are covered include complex office and advocacy memoranda, as well as selected parts of appellate briefs. Assignments include legal research. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 401 or PLGL 401.

LGST 411 Consumer Protection Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A general overview of consumer protection law and the roles of federal, state, and local agencies. Topics include warranties, the regulation of consumer credit, restrictions on advertising, and credit reporting. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 411 or PLGL 411.

LGST 415 Intellectual Property (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An overview of patents, trademarks, and copyright law. Emphasis is on the role of the paralegal in application, maintenance, research, and litigation processes. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 415, PLGL 398D, or PLGL 415.

LGST 420 Immigration Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An overview of the laws, agencies, and procedures involved in U.S. immigration law and the role of paralegals in immigration practice. Topics include sources and administration of immigration law and research and preparation of various immigration documents. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 420, PLGL 398F, or PLGL 420.

LGST 425 Advanced Civil Litigation (3)

Prerequisites: LGST 201 and 325. Recommended: LGST 322. A study of the nuts and bolts of paralegal practice in large-case civil litigation. Topics include discovery and motion practice; pretrial preparation, including the pretrial memorandum; and preparation of the excerpt of record for the appellate court. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 425 or PLGL 398N.

LGST 432 Environmental Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An exploration of the statutory and regulatory bases of environmental law, for the prospective paralegal. Topics include the role of federal agencies in such undertakings as controlling various types of pollution, assessing and managing risk, and regulating toxic substances. Assignments include legal research and written and oral analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 432, PLGL 332, or PLGL 432.

LGST 442 Business Organizations (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. Recommended: LGST 340. An overview of the legal aspects of establishing, organizing, developing, and operating a business enterprise and the processes, procedures, and writings for which a paralegal may be responsible. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 442, PLGL 342, or PLGL 442.

LGST 445 Employment Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. An overview of federal and state laws governing the employment relationship in the public and private sectors. Topics include employee protection from discrimination and harassment, employer obligations toward disabled workers, privacy issues, and employment contract matters. Focus is on the knowledge and practical skills required for a paralegal working in this area. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 445 or PLGL 398O.

LGST 450 Bankruptcy Law (3)

Prerequisite: LGST 201. A study of the bankruptcy code, the related rules of procedure, and the role of the paralegal in assisting attorneys in bankruptcy practice. Techniques detailed include how to identify and gather relevant data and how to draft and file appropriate documents. Assignments include legal research and written analysis. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: LGST 450 or PLGL 450.

LGST 486A Legal Studies Internship Through Co-op (3)

Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 247). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in legal studies. At least 12 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a minimum of 180 hours during the Co-op session; four new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to legal studies and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 credits in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor’s degree and up to 9 credits toward a second bachelor’s degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).

LGST 486B Legal Studies Internship Through Co-op (6)

Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 247). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in legal studies. At least 20 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a total of 300 hours during the Co-op session; five to eight new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to legal studies and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 credits in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor’s degree and up to 9 credits toward a second bachelor’s degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).