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# Introduction to Law for Paralegals: A Comprehensive Guide
Aspiring paralegals, eager to launch successful legal careers, often find themselves navigating a complex and multifaceted world of legal principles. This comprehensive guide provides a solid introduction to law for paralegals, equipping you with the foundational knowledge essential for success in this demanding yet rewarding field. We will delve into core legal concepts, explore key areas of law, and highlight the specific skills paralegals need to thrive. This isn't just a cursory overview; it's a deep dive designed to solidify your understanding and empower you to confidently contribute to the legal profession.
Understanding the Legal System: Foundations for Paralegals
Before diving into specific areas of law, it's crucial to grasp the fundamental structure of the legal system itself. This involves understanding the differences between civil and criminal law, the roles of various legal professionals (including judges, juries, and lawyers, of course, and how you fit in as a paralegal), and the processes involved in litigation.
Civil vs. Criminal Law: Key Distinctions
Civil law deals with disputes between individuals or entities, focusing on resolving conflicts and obtaining remedies like monetary compensation. Think breach of contract, personal injury, or property disputes. Criminal law, on the other hand, involves actions considered harmful to society as a whole, leading to prosecution by the government and potential imprisonment or fines. Paralegals working in either area must understand the nuances of each system, including the different burdens of proof.
The Court System and Legal Procedure
Navigating the court system is a crucial aspect of a paralegal's role. This includes understanding the different levels of courts (local, state, federal), the various stages of litigation (pleadings, discovery, trial, appeal), and the rules of evidence that govern the admissibility of information in court. Familiarity with legal research and case citation is also indispensable.
The Role of a Paralegal: A Vital Support System
Paralegals are indispensable members of the legal team. Their responsibilities can vary widely depending on their employer and area of law, but generally include legal research, document preparation, client communication, and assisting with case management. Understanding your role and its ethical boundaries is paramount.
Key Areas of Law for Paralegals
While the breadth of legal specializations is vast, certain areas are frequently encountered by paralegals. A foundational understanding of these core areas is essential:
Contract Law: Agreements and Obligations
Contract law governs agreements between parties. Paralegals often assist in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts. Understanding the elements of a valid contract (offer, acceptance, consideration, capacity, legality) is crucial for this role.
Tort Law: Civil Wrongs and Remedies
Tort law addresses civil wrongs that cause harm to others, such as negligence, defamation, and intentional torts. Paralegals may assist in investigating accidents, gathering evidence, and preparing legal documents related to tort claims.
Property Law: Ownership and Interests in Land
Property law deals with rights and interests in real and personal property. Paralegals might help with property transactions, title searches, and preparation of related legal documents.
Family Law: Domestic Relations and Child Custody
Family law encompasses divorce, child custody, and other domestic relations matters. Paralegals in this area often assist with preparing legal documents, scheduling appointments, and managing client communication.
Criminal Law: Prosecution and Defense
As mentioned earlier, criminal law deals with crimes against the state. Paralegals in this field may assist with legal research, investigation, and preparing for trial. Understanding the intricacies of criminal procedure is vital.
Essential Skills for Paralegals
Beyond legal knowledge, certain soft skills are crucial for success as a paralegal:
Legal Research and Writing: The Cornerstones of Success
Proficiency in legal research and writing is paramount. Paralegals must be able to effectively locate relevant legal authority and communicate it clearly and concisely in legal documents.
Organization and Time Management: Juggling Multiple Priorities
Paralegals often juggle multiple tasks and deadlines. Strong organizational and time management skills are vital for efficiency and preventing errors.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Building Rapport with Clients and Colleagues
Effective communication is key to success in any legal setting. Paralegals must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with clients, attorneys, and other members of the legal team.
Conclusion
This introduction to law for paralegals provides a solid foundation for embarking on a successful career in the legal field. By understanding the legal system, key areas of law, and essential skills, aspiring paralegals can confidently contribute to the legal profession and build fulfilling careers. Remember that continuous learning and professional development are crucial for staying abreast of legal changes and advancements in the field.
FAQs
Q1: What is the difference between a lawyer and a paralegal?
A1: Lawyers are licensed legal professionals who can represent clients in court and give legal advice. Paralegals are trained legal professionals who assist lawyers with various tasks but cannot represent clients in court or give legal advice independently.
Q2: Do I need a degree to become a paralegal?
A2: While not always required, a paralegal certificate or associate's degree is highly beneficial and often preferred by employers. A bachelor's degree can enhance career prospects further.
Q3: What are the career prospects for paralegals?
A3: The career outlook for paralegals is generally positive, with a growing demand across various legal sectors. Specialization in a particular area of law can further enhance career opportunities.
Q4: What is the average salary for a paralegal?
A4: The average salary for a paralegal varies depending on location, experience, and area of specialization. However, it generally falls within a competitive range, offering a good work-life balance.
Q5: How can I continue my professional development as a paralegal?
A5: Continuous learning is vital. Consider pursuing advanced certifications, attending legal seminars and workshops, and staying updated on legal news and developments through professional organizations and publications.
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Neal R. Bevans, 2023-09-14 Now in its Fifth Edition, Introduction to Law for Paralegals balances substantive law with work-based knowledge and skills. From the basics of the U.S. legal system to personal injury, contracts, and intellectual property, Neal R. Bevans brings it all into focus through clear writing, realistic examples, and engaging exercises. With features like Skills You Need in the Real World and Issues at a Glance, the transition from classroom to law firm will be smooth sailing. New to the Fifth Edition: New and updated cases Discussion of current technology and its use in legal practice New Web Surfing feature with websites for further reading Professors and students will benefit from: Essential paralegal skills and legal procedure, presented in conjunction with substantive areas of law Part I introduces students to the legal system, with coverage of ethics, evidence, working in the law office, trials, and appeals Part II covers substantive law, including torts, contracts, criminal law, administrative law, real property, wills and trusts, family law, intellectual property, and agency law Part III gives an overview of legal research and writing A succinct and direct writing style Exercises that develop paralegal skills, integrated throughout the text A design for learning on every page, including definitions of legal terms and phrases, inset boxes that illuminate concepts, examples, visual aids, chapter summaries, sample documents, case excerpts, and more End-of-chapter exercises and practice questions for test review help students master the material |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Katherine A. Currier, Thomas E. Eimermann, Marisa S. Campbell, 2023-01-31 A thoughtful new edition of the leading Introduction to Law for Paralegals text Introduction to Law for Paralegals: A Critical Thinking Approach explores high-interest topics and cases within the framework of the authors' acclaimed critical thinking approach. Hypotheticals, examples, and incisive questions shed light on both the principle and application of the law. In a thoroughly updated new edition, this leading text in the field continues to provide innovation and excellence. New to the Eighth Edition: Updated with changes in the law, new NetNotes, and additional Discussion Questions and Legal Reasoning Exercises. Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure are now directly after the chapter on Torts so that instructors can better compare and contrast civil litigation and criminal law. Streamlined chapter introducing the Study of Law and the Paralegal Profession. Professors and students will benefit from: Comprehensive coverage of key legal concepts. Hypotheticals, questions, and exercises that engage students in critical thinking. A logical three-part organization: Part I, Paralegals and the American Legal System; Part II, Finding and Analyzing the Law and Part III, Legal Ethics and Substantive Law. Student-friendly skill development for basic statutory and case analysis. Text is readable without talking down to students. Structure of chapters ensures that students understand and learn the material. Ethics Alerts, marginal definitions, Internet references, and legal reasoning exercises. Appendices on writing style and citation, the U.S. Constitution, Ethical Codes, and additional Net Notes. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Katherine A. Currier, Thomas E. Eimermann, 2019-02-26 Balancing practice and theory, Introduction to Law for Paralegals: A Critical Thinking Approach offers a well-rounded introduction to law and the American legal system. Currier, Eimermann, and Campbell’s thoughtfully revised seventh edition offers comprehensive coverage combined with interesting topics, timely cases, and effective pedagogy. Through hypotheticals, examples, and well-designed questions, the authors engage students in the process of critical thinking and analysis. New to the Seventh Edition: Updated with changes in the law, new NetNotes and Web Exercises, and additional Discussion Questions and Legal Reasoning Exercises New case excerpts on trademark issues and the constitutionality of the disparagement clause (Ch. 13); same-sex marriage, paternity, and custody disputes (Ch. 15); inducement to commit suicide (Ch. 16); and cell phone privacy (Ch. 17) Revised chapter on Ethics, including revisions to the ABA Rules of Professional Conduct, a discussion and comparison of rules of conduct and ethical rules, the addition of notary public law, and a new ethics alert regarding client confidentiality Discussion of defamation in the era of digital media and the Communication Decency Act of 1996, contemporary torts in the digital age, and reference to the “MeToo” movement in Chapter 11 on Torts New co-author, Marisa Campbell, brings her extensive experience in the paralegal field to the book Professors and students will benefit from: Clear and effective organization—the text is divided into three parts, reflecting the topics addressed in an introductory course: Part I, Paralegals and the American Legal System; Part II, Finding and Analyzing the Law; and Part III, Legal Ethics and Substantive Law A critical thinking approach that introduces students to the study of law, encouraging them to interact with the materials through discussion questions and legal reasoning exercises Text that is readable without talking down to students—the structure of chapters ensures that students understand and learn the material Comprehensive coverage of key legal concepts Effective and thoughtful pedagogy throughout, with chapter objectives, ethics alerts, marginal definitions, internet references, and review questions Helpful appendices, including Fundamentals of Good Writing and Basics of Citation Form |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Currier, Eimermann, 2011-10-01 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Katherine A. Currier, Thomas E. Eimermann, 2000-12 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Aspen, Katherine A. Currier, Eimermann, 2001-03-01 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Iml Intro to Law F/Paralegals Walston-Dunham, 2002-01-01 Introduction to Law for Paralegals is written for the college-level student who requires a base-level understanding of the major areas of law. It also addresses the way in which the state and federal governments function. While the text is geared to the role of the paralegal, it is an excellent survey of the legal system for all disciplines of study, including pre-law, legal studies, business administration, and accounting programs. Topics include the Development of the American Legal System, Creation of Legal Principles, Legal Analysis, Civil Lawsuits, The Development and Role of Today's Paralegal, The Process of Legal Research, Tort Law in America, Law of Probate and Estates, Contract Law, Law of Real and Personal Property, Law of Domestic Relationships, and Criminal Law and Procedure. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to the Law for Paralegals Deborah Benton, 2006-10-02 Innovative and engaging, this textbook is written for the student who is just starting a paralegal degree program. It provides simple and concise explanations of legal concepts and topics, encouraging students to develop critical thinking skills by applying the legal principles to numerous problems and exercises contained in each chapter. This book introduces students to the major substantive areas of law that will be covered in depth in subsequent courses. The Paralegal Supersite Site |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Neal R. Bevans, 2013-05-30 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Neal R. Bevans, 2020-09-15 Now in its Fourth Edition, Introduction to Law for Paralegals balances substantive law with work-based knowledge and skills. From the basics of the U.S. legal system, to personal injury, contracts and intellectual property, Neal R. Bevans brings it all into focus through clear writing, realistic examples, and engaging exercises. With features like Skills You Need in the Real World and Issues at a Glance, the transition from classroom to law firm will be smooth sailing. New to the Fourth Edition: Coverage of agency Streamlined coverage of legal research and writing Updated cases Discussion of current technology and its use in legal practice End-of-chapter exercises and practice questions for test review help students master the material Professors and students will benefit from: Essential paralegal skills and legal procedure, presented in conjunction with substantive areas of law Part I introduces students to the legal system, with coverage of ethics, evidence, working in the law office, trials, and appeals Part II covers substantive law, including torts, contracts, criminal law, administrative law, real property, wills and trusts, family law, intellectual property, and agency law Part III gives an overview of legal research and writing A succinct and direct writing style Exercises that develop paralegal skills, integrated throughout the text A design for learning on every page, including definitions of legal terms and phrases, inset boxes that illuminate concepts, examples, visual aids, chapter summaries, sample documents, case excerpts, and more |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law & Paralegal Studies Connie Scuderi, 2007 Scuderi's Introduction to Law & Paralegal Studies teaches the basic skills paralegals will need when working in the field using pratical, uncomplicated approach. The material is directly applicable, providing an accurate sense of what paralegals do. The text provides basic coverage of the topics most important for a beginning paralegal student. The Paralegal Supersite Site |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Neal R. Bevans, 2014-12-02 Introduction to Law for Paralegals covers not only the theory but also the practical aspects of every day legal practice. This text prepares students for the transition from classroom to courtroom, offering balanced coverage of procedural concepts along with an introduction to specific areas of the law. Features: devotion to practical applications, such as legal research, ethics, trials, and appellate issues as well as substantive legal issues, ranging from personal injury and contracts to intellectual property clear, engaging writing style emphasis on practical skill acquisition which is discussed in conjunction with substantive legal issues reader-friendly design, with marginal definitions of key terms and phrases, inset boxes that explore various concepts, and chapter features such as andSkills You Need in the Real Worldand and andIssues at a Glanceand that encapsulate important concepts. The text also includes numerous examples, figures, tables and hypotheticals to help students understand various legal issues and make effective use of different student learning styles excellent end-of-chapter activities, with chapter summaries, review questions, discussion questions, web references, ethics discussions,suggestions for further reading, sample documents, and andpersonality quizzesand that help students determine what area of the law is right for them shorter length and level of material makes this text the perfect choice for Associate's level paralegal courses New to the Second Edition: new developments and new case law more in-depth coverage of substantive law areas more coverage of computer technology in the law office |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegals Neal R. Bevans, 2023-09-14 Now in its Fifth Edition, Introduction to Law for Paralegals balances substantive law with work-based knowledge and skills. From the basics of the U.S. legal system to personal injury, contracts, and intellectual property, Neal R. Bevans brings it all into focus through clear writing, realistic examples, and engaging exercises. With features like Skills You Need in the Real World and Issues at a Glance, the transition from classroom to law firm will be smooth sailing. New to the Fifth Edition: New and updated cases Discussion of current technology and its use in legal practice New Web Surfing feature with websites for further reading Professors and students will benefit from: Essential paralegal skills and legal procedure, presented in conjunction with substantive areas of law Part I introduces students to the legal system, with coverage of ethics, evidence, working in the law office, trials, and appeals Part II covers substantive law, including torts, contracts, criminal law, administrative law, real property, wills and trusts, family law, intellectual property, and agency law Part III gives an overview of legal research and writing A succinct and direct writing style Exercises that develop paralegal skills, integrated throughout the text A design for learning on every page, including definitions of legal terms and phrases, inset boxes that illuminate concepts, examples, visual aids, chapter summaries, sample documents, case excerpts, and more End-of-chapter exercises and practice questions for test review help students master the material |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Paralegal Studies Katherine A. Currier, Thomas E. Eimermann, Marisa S. Campbell, 2021-01-31 Introduction to Paralegal Studies: A Critical Thinking Approach frames concepts and practice within the authors’ trademark design for learning that fosters critical thinking and analysis. This comprehensive, intelligent text offers an introduction to law and legal concepts combined with practical information about what paralegals actually do in the legal system. A critical thinking approach is used to introduce students to the study of law, encouraging them to interact with the materials through hypotheticals, examples, and discussion questions. New to the Seventh Edition: Several organizational changes make the book even easier to use: Criminal Law and Procedure was split into two chapter. This change made the chapters more manageable for students to read and understand. The authors made it easier to compare and contrast Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure with Civil Litigation and Torts by grouping these chapters together. This also provides a more natural flow to the topics that follow in the chapter on Specialized Practice Areas. Thorough updates throughout with new and expanded topics and discussions of recent court decisions. Includes changes that have occurred in the legal profession due to COVID-19. New Legal Reasoning exercises, Discussion Questions, Review Questions, and updated the Web Exercises. Enhanced section on executive power Updated to cover the 21st edition of The Bluebook (published July, 2020.) Professors and student will benefit from: Comprehensive coverage of all the key topics typically included in the introductory course, in four parts: Part I: Paralegals and the American Legal System; Part II: Substance of the Law; Part III: Legal Analysis and Research; Part IV: Paralegals and the Work World. Critical thinking approach teaches students not only the facts about the law, but also how to apply it. Pedagogy includes ethics alerts, marginal definitions, reasoning exercises, hypotheticals, and examples. Coverage of specialized practice areas such as business, employment, immigration, real estate, and family law. Paralegal profiles provide context and real-world perspective. Well-written, teachable book with comprehensive coverage and thoughtful pedagogy. Text is readable without talking down to students. Structure of chapters ensures that students understand and learn the material. Author team brings a wealth of experience to the book. Strong ancillary materials enhance the book’s carefully crafted content. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law & Paralegal Studies Connie Farrell Scuderi, 2008 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Paralegalism: Perspectives, Problems and Skills William Statsky, 2015-02-02 Master the hands-on skills you’ll need to succeed in a modern law office with INTRODUCTION TO PARALEGALISM, 8e. Ten critical skills are covered in the book: identifying legal issues, breaking rules into elements,applying rules to facts interviewing clients, investigating facts, digesting discovery documents, providing litigation assistance, researching the law, drafting documents, and representing clients at administrative agencies where authorized by law.Packed with real-life insights and real-world examples,the text helps you understand the ethical guidelines that lawyers and paralegals must follow and covers the efforts underway to regulate the profession in legislatures, courts, bar associations, and paralegal associations. Important Notice: Media content referenced within the product description or the product text may not be available in the ebook version. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to the Law for Paralegals Deborah S. Benton, 2008 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Practical Contract Law for Paralegals Laurel A. Vietzen, 2016-07-08 Practical Contract Law for Paralegals: An Activities-Based Approach is a comprehensive, practical introduction to environmental law written exclusively for paralegal students. The concise, well-written text focuses on a broad understanding of the sources of environmental law and offers students numerous practical exercises as well as concrete methods for researching the law. It also includes methods for conducting due diligence in real estate transactions, a real-world concern of paralegals and a topic ignored by other textbooks. The Second Edition offers thoroughly updated exercises, websites, government forms and laws, and includes a new chapter on mining law. Features of Practical Contract Law for Paralegals: An Activities-Based Approach: Accessible, practical approach to environmental law, specifically designed for the paralegal student. Comprehensive coverage includes the basics of the judicial concepts, policies, agencies and institutions that shape environmental law A brief overview of legal research and how it applies to environmental law. Intuitive organization starts with the implementation and sources of Environmental Law and moves on to specific statutes. Emphasis on conducting due diligence in real estate transactions, a real-world concern of paralegals and a topic no other book addresses. Engaging hands-on assignments, exercises and website resources teach students how to research local laws and access vital information. Strong pedagogical features reinforce the material, including crossword puzzles, key terms, review questions, and practice exercises. Features employment opportunities and ethical issues Thoroughly updated, the revised Second Edition includes: New chapter on mining law. Thoroughly updated exercises, government forms, laws, and websites. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law Jaap Hage, Antonia Waltermann, Bram Akkermans, 2017-08-07 This book is exceptional in the sense that it provides an introduction to law in general rather than the law of one specific jurisdiction, and it presents a unique way of looking at legal education. It is crucial for lawyers to be aware of the different ways in which societal problems can be solved and to be able to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different legal solutions. In this respect, being a lawyer involves being able to reason like a lawyer, even more than having detailed knowledge of particular sets of rules. Introduction to Law reflects this view by focusing on the functions of rules and on ways of arguing the relative qualities of alternative legal solutions. Where ‘positive’ law is discussed, the emphasis is on the legal questions that must be addressed by a field of law and on the different solutions which have been adopted by, for instance, the common law and civil law tradition. The law of specific jurisdictions is discussed to illustrate possible answers to questions such as when the existence of a valid contract is assumed. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Legal Literacy Archie Zariski, 2014-10-01 To understand how the legal system works, students must consider the law in terms of its structures, processes, language, and modes of thought and argument—in short, they must become literate in the field. Legal Literacy fulfills this aim by providing a foundational understanding of key concepts such as legal personhood, jurisdiction, and precedent, and by introducing students to legal research and writing skills. Examples of cases, statutes, and other legal materials support these concepts. While Legal Literacy is an introductory text, it also challenges students to consider critically the system they are studying. Touching on significant socio-legal issues such as access to justice, legal jargon, and plain language, Zariski critiques common legal traditions and practices, and analyzes what it means “to think like a lawyer.” As such, the text provides a sound basis for those who wish to pursue further studies in law or legal studies as well as those seeking a better understanding of how the legal field relates to the society that it serves. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law for Paralegal 5e W/ Paralgl Law Pract Law Sim Currier, 2013-08-21 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Family Law for Paralegals J. Shoshanna Ehrlich, 2013 Thoughtful and carefully-written, Family Law for Paralegals presents the nuts-and-bolts in a relevant historical framework with exposure to some of the most dynamic issues in family law today. The comprehensive coverage balances the basic issues of marriage and divorce with cutting-edge concerns such as non-marital families, child abuse and neglect, and same-sex marriage. Helpful real-life examples and sample forms show students what they will encounter in practice. Useful pedagogy helps students develop their critical thinking and writing skills, and a range of assignments in each chapter provides practice in research, analysis, memo-writing, and argumentation. Fresh new cases enliven the Sixth Edition. New material features changes in the law relating to same-sex marriage as well as technological innovations such as e-filings for divorce. A new discussion of divorce and military families is presented, and issues related to international families are explored. The Sixth Edition covers all the new rulings on the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA.) Features: nuts-and-bolts of family law in relevant historical framework with exposure to dynamic, contemporary issues comprehensive coverage fundamental issues of marriage and divorce cutting-edge concerns: non-marital families, child abuse and neglect, and same-sex marriage real-life examples and sample forms preview actual practice useful pedagogy helps students develop critical thinking and writing skills summaries key terms review and discussion questions range of assignments for practice in research, analysis, memo writing, and argumentation Thoroughly updated, the revised Sixth Edition presents: fresh new cases current changes in the laws relating to same-sex marriage new coverage of technological innovations, such as e-filings for divorce discussion of divorce and military families legal issues related to international families new rulings on the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) |
| introduction to law for paralegals: The Study of Law Katherine A. Currier, Thomas E. Eimermann, 2016 The latest edition of The Study of Law: A Critical Thinking Approach offers a comprehensive, intelligent overview of all the key concepts covered in a typical introduction to law course. A critical thinking approach is used to introduce students to the study of law, encouraging students to interact with the materials through hypotheticals, examples, and well-designed questions. The text is divided into two parts, reflecting the topics addressed in an introductory course. Part I, Introduction to the Legal System, introduces students to the sources and classification of law, the structure of the court system, and an overview of litigation. Part II: Basic Legal Concepts, covers the basics of analysis and interpretation of the law, followed by chapters on substantive law. Key Features of the New Edition: Teaches students the basic skills necessary to understand statutes and court cases Strong pedagogy reinforces well-written text presented in an accessible and well-organized format Edited cases are included in every chapter to teach students how to read and analyze the law New coverage includes: the Boston Marathon bombing case, the Affordable Care Act, and trademark issues involving the Washington Redskins, e-filing and e-discovery, discussion of same-sex marriage and custody disputes over pre-embryos, and crimes of unauthorized access of computer data and warrantless searches of cell phones |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Civil Law and Litigation for Paralegals Neal R. Bevans, 2016-09-20 Civil Law and Litigation for Paralegals is a comprehensive text designed specifically for paralegal civil litigation courses. Author Neal Bevans not only teaches the basics of civil litigation, but also gives students the opportunity to learn skills they will use in practice. In a balanced approach, Bevans covers all the key topics paralegals need to know in an easy-to-read and engaging style that utilizes numerous examples and illustrations but never overwhelms the student. The text provides students with an in-depth analysis of a wide variety of civil cases, beginning with laying out the basic foundation of the American legal system. It proceeds through the investigation and implementation of a civil case, and follows the case through to appeal. The text balances the theoretical underpinnings of the law with the practical examples and hands-on experience that all students need to completely understand the topic. The helpful pedagogy throughout the book and a comprehensive teaching package make class preparation as easy as possible. Features: Clear introduction to the fundamentals of civil litigation for paralegal students. Provides students with an in-depth analysis of a wide variety of civil cases, laying out the basic foundation of the American legal system, proceeding through the investigation and implementation of a civil case, and following the case through to appeal. Designed to help prepare students for the practical world of divorces, car wreck cases, and medical malpractice claims that they will see every day in civil practice. Each chapter presents students with examples of the important role that paralegals play in every stage of civil litigation, from client intake to bringing an appeal. Understandable writing style with strong pedagogy, resulting in a teachable and accessible text. Each chapter includes Practice Pointers, Search Suggestions, Tech Topics, and Legal Legwork boxes, along with case excerpts, forms, and ethics. Helpful pedagogy includes Chapter Objectives that focus learning and review, Boldfaced key terms and marginal definitions for convenient reference, Review questions at the end of each chapter, and references to web sites that facilitate legal research |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Synthesis Margaret Elizabeth McCallum, Christina L. Kunz, Deborah A. Schmedemann, 2003 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law John J. Murray, 2024 Introductory textbook for paralegal studies/introduction to law for paralegal students-- |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law in Canada John Fairlie, Philip James Sworden, 2019 The textbook is an overview of Canada's legal system, meets LSO guidelines, and will serve as a comprehensive, all-in-one resource aimed at colleges and universities.--Résumé de l'éditeur. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law John J Murray, 2024-09-15 This new and engaging Introduction to Law text captures student interest through relatable, relevant, and readable content. Accomplished author John Murray emphasizes the human component of the law, providing real stories from the field and offering the relevant information and questions students need to engage with the material. Divided into four parts, the text first builds a firm foundation in the basics of paralegal practice, then moves on to understanding the legal system and important concepts in civil and criminal law. The book concludes with the roads to resolution. Each chapter includes practical exercises, discussion questions, and examples that invite students to remember, understand, apply, analyze, evaluate, and create. Introduction to Law is the perfect text to begin the journey toward becoming a paralegal professional. Professors and students will benefit from: ● Current cases and illustrations that complement student learning outcomes ● Clear organizational structure that introduces students to the law in an understandable format ● Sections within each chapter that teach and reinforce the key concepts: Keeping It Real: Excerpts from cases selected and edited to illustrate the lessons in the chapter Make It Relevant: Questions designed to help students apply, analyze, and evaluate important concepts Relatable Morsels: Quotes and information that give students perspective on the concepts in the chapter Sticky Wicket: Boxes that highlight ethical issues GREAT Paralegal Tips: Real-life strategies designed to turn students into great practicing paralegals ● A textbook is designed for today’s students, offering real stories from the field and focusing on relevant information and questions students will need to be successful paralegals. ● Humor, a conversational tone, and engaging storytelling that will resonate with students, capturing the mind and the heart through a down-to-earth presentation style. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law Firm Practice Michael P. Downey, 2010 For both the law student and young lawyer, this guide provides an introduction to the basics of working in a law firm. It discusses how a lawyer can get around within the firm to succeed in law firm practice. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Law Henry R. Cheeseman, 2005 This complete introduction to law places emphasis on ethics and international issues, showing readers how to engage in ethical, analytical reasoning with every topic from legal fundamentals to areas of substantive law. The features of this book encourage readers to apply critical thinking, organizational and summation skills, and legal research tools to solve specific legal problems. KEY TOPICS: The American court system, criminal law and ethics, contracts and E-Commerce, family law, real and personal property, agency, employment, and equal opportunity law, intellectual property and internet law, and administrative law, consumer, investor, and environmental protection. MARKET: For paralegals, legal assistants, lawyers, and all legal professionals. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Oran's Dictionary of the Law Daniel Oran, Mark Tosti, 2008 This book gives the reader the core of each legal idea and helps them understand the American legal system as well as how to approach research tasks. It precisely explains contracts, laws, court decisions, and lawyers. It also includes a section on computerized legal research and overhauled sections on bankruptcy, intellectual property, litigation support, national security and other rapidly changing subject areas. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Contract and Tort Law for Paralegals Carolyn MacLean, Laurence M. Olivo, Jean Fitzgerald, 2018 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Intro to Law for Paralegals Katherine A. Currier, Thomas E. Eimermann, 2005-09-01 |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Family Law JoAnn Kurtz, 2018-02 This text gives students a detailed foundation of family law in Ontario and presents a comprehensive overview of both substantive law and practice and procedure in the area and offers a special focus on the practical skills that law clerks require in a family law practice.-- |
| introduction to law for paralegals: An Introduction to the Law of Contracts Martin A. Frey, Terry H. Bitting, Phyllis Hurley Frey, 2000 The third edition of this well-respected text presents a road-map approach for thinking about contracts problems. Steps in the road map include choice of law, contract formation, unenforceable contracts, breach of contract, and plaintiff's remedies. The rules of the law are presented first as theory, followed by and example and either a paralegal exercises or a case so that students can relate the abstract to a concrete set of facts. The text also teaches students how to analyze a contracts problem using common law and a code approach (articles 1 and 2 of the UCC). |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Contracts Bruce MacDougall, 2019 This succinct yet comprehensive primer covers the law of contracts in the common law jurisdictions, focusing on the major cases in each area and on significan statute law, rendering the concepts readily understandable and accessible. This book situates contracts law within other areas of law, such as tort and restitution. It provides unique charts that summarize various issues, such as formation, enforcing promises, categorizing terms, liability, and more. The fourth edition addresses a number of recent Supreme Court of Canada decisions and the significant changes to the law on consideration, rectification, and consumer protection. Also addressed are further developments in the law in relation to the interpretation of contacts, and the new edition considers the issue of appeals of interpretation issues. The chapter on Mistakehas been thoroughly revised. -- Résumé de l'éditeur. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Legal Research Margaret Helen Kerr, JoAnn Kurtz, Arlene Blatt, 2017-11 This book offers students a comprehensive guide to conducting legal research in paralegal and law clerk programs.-- |
| introduction to law for paralegals: The Justice Crisis Trevor C.W. Farrow, Lesley A. Jacobs, 2020-09-01 Unfulfilled legal needs are at a tipping point in much of the Canadian justice system. The Justice Crisis assesses what is and isn’t working in efforts to strengthen a fundamental right of democratic citizenship: access to civil and family justice. Contributors to this wide-ranging overview of recent empirical research address key issues: the extent and cost of unmet legal needs; the role of public funding; connections between legal and social exclusion among vulnerable populations; the value of new legal pathways; the provision of justice services beyond the courts and lawyers; and the need for a culture change within the justice system. |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Introduction to Legal Research and Writing Carol M. Bast, 2024 Intended for pre-law and paralegal students, this second edition is a revised and refreshed version of the successful first edition of Introduction to Legal Research and Writing, with updated legal research exercises throughout. This book is designed to be the only one the student and the professor need for legal research and legal writing. It is designed to provide a clear explanation of basic information, with exercises to give the student the necessary practice in researching and writing and accompanying sample legal writing documents. The text is user friendly and readable while balancing the need for detail. Each chapter covers only a manageable amount of material for someone who has not previously studied the law. The objectives of the legal research portion of the book teach the student how to competently perform legal research in the law library and online, use correct citation form, and understand the fundamentals of legal research. The objectives of the legal writing portion of the book are to explain the fundamentals of legal analysis and writing, teach the student how to communicate clearly, and demonstrate how to eliminate mechanical errors. The appendices provide additional information that the instructor can incorporate into the class as needed. For example, Appendix B, Locating and Citing to Cases, can be covered in conjunction with Chapter 4, and Appendix C, Rules for Quotations and Short Form Citations, can be introduced when students are completing legal writing assignments-- |
| introduction to law for paralegals: Law Office Management for Paralegals Laurel A. Vietzen, 2019-09-13 Law Office Management for Paralegals, Fourth Edition is a comprehensive introduction to law office management, emphasizing ethics, law office culture, law office systems, and “soft skills,” such as communications and critical thinking. Assignments are drawn from real-world law office management situations and supported by innovative visual aids and learning tools. Students get hands-on practice with timekeeping, conflicts-checking, file management, trust accounting, business planning, correspondence, and much more. They are exposed to law office software, such as Clio, and learn to perform vital functions using other software and even freeware. Career profiles emphasize the importance of involvement in professional organizations, advancement in the legal field without obtaining a law degree, and that the legal profession is populated by men and women of all ages and backgrounds. New to the Fourth Edition: New ethical discussions: the obligation to keep up with current technology, disaster planning, and dealing with clients using crowdfunding. New technology discussions: artificial intelligence in legal practice, online notarization, client portals, and apps to make the practice of law more efficient and mobile. New discussions of law as a business: features of property insurance, malpractice insurance, insurance for and on employees; trends in office space. New soft skills discussions: dealing with incivility in the legal profession, managing staff through technology changes. Professors and students will benefit from: Author Laurel A. Vietzen’s outstanding reputation in the paralegal market. Drawing on her extensive background as a professor and practitioner, she clearly presents basic law office management and organization. Well-crafted assignments throughout the text help students hone practical skills such as critical thinking, organization, general communication, and computer proficiency. The text is particularly adaptable for an online or hybrid class. |
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e hands-on perspective of Introduction to the Law for Paralegals promotes greater understanding of basic legal principles and practical strategies. By practicing critical thinking …
and the Paralegal Profession - Saylor Academy
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Everything a student needs to learn basic legal concepts in a …
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and the Paralegal Profession - Saylor Academy
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Intro To Law For Paralegals (PDF) - netsec.csuci.edu
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PART 1 Paralegals and the American Legal System 1
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Introduction Law Paralegals Critical Thinking - mrl.org
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Law 1101 Intro to Paralegal Studies/LAW 1103 Civil Law
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