The two areas of study for this topic-specific Specialist Program are Criminal Law and Constitutional Law. A required elective further sharpens your understanding of Criminal Law.
Criminal Law
Criminal law is entirely different from other areas of the law, like contract, business and litigation law. In criminal work, not only are property and/or money at stake, but a defendant’s freedom hangs in the balance. Whether you work for a defense attorney or a government entity, as a paralegal you can be part of the process that guarantees accused individuals the right to a fair trial. Learn to interview witnesses, prepare deposition questions, sift through discover disclosed by the prosecution, and research relevant legal issues specific to your cases. Acquire the skills to prepare evidence for presentation at trial, and prepare legal documents for filing with the court on behalf of the attorney.
Constitutional Law
Improve your knowledge of the foundational elements underlying court rulings and opinions, so you can effectually assist in criminal law processes. This overview of historic and current Constitutional issues provides you with a better understanding of the division of powers embodied in the three branches of government as well as topical issues such as abortion rights, individual freedoms and state v. federal governmental power.
Elective
Once you have begun this program, you will work with your instructor to determine which elective course fits best with your particular area of interest. You will choose one of the following electives: E-Discovery, Accounting and Tax Law for Paralegals, Legal Ethics, Laws of Evidence or Advanced Legal Research.