Areas of strict liability and intentional torts are also covered, as well as types of defenses, computation, and assessment of damages. This course provides the practical knowledge necessary for a paralegal to effectively provide the delivery of legal services. Law office computer techniques, data retrieval systems and other technological advances in the legal field will be presented as well as a critical analysis of law office automation vis a vis traditional methods. An examination of the nature, organization and function of a law office. Techniques of operation for paralegals on a general office management level as they apply specifically to law offices, including organization and methods of operation, time keeping, billing and collection, space planning, utilization and management of work flow, and introduction to personnel management.
Students conduct practice interviews in and out of class.
Special emphasis is placed on the skills necessary for a paralegal to work in this area. Study includes estates passing by will and intestate succession. An examination of estate planning devices including wills, trusts, guardianships, transfers of property, and the fundamental principles of law that apply to each. A study of state and federal tax laws as they apply to estate planning will also be made. Special emphasis is placed on drafting wills and trusts and other skills necessary for paralegals in this area.