University of Montana Catalog 2023-2024

Legal Studies C.A.S.

This program is approved by the American Bar Association. The Paralegal Studies program prepares students for challenging and diverse careers in private law practices and in the law-related areas of business, industry, and government. The goals of the Paralegal Studies program are to enable students, through theoretical and practical legal education, to understand the function of law, to work as paralegals in the effective delivery of legal services, and to enhance the legal profession. This program is designed to equip students with skills to analyze legal issues and to perform a variety of activities including drafting legal documents, interviewing clients, conducting legal research, and preparing cases for trial. Students utilize current technology through Internet research and legal and general office software applications. Paralegal studies students receive the necessary legal training to take advantage of new career opportunities in all sectors of the economy. Students are exposed to the principles of legal ethics and are cautioned regarding restrictions against the unauthorized practice of law by laypersons. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

Certificate of Applied Science - Legal Studies

Summary

Required Courses23
Directed Electives10
Total Hours33

Degree Specific Credits: 33

Required Cumulative GPA: 2.0

Required Courses

Complete all of the following courses:
COMX 111AIntroduction to Public Speaking3
LEG 184ELegal Ethics3
LEG 185Introduction Paralegal Studies2
LEG 186Introduction to Legal Research2
LEG 187Legal Research & Writing I2
LEG 298Paralegal Studies Internship2
M 115Probability and Linear Mathematics3
PSCI 210SIntro to American Government3
WRIT 101College Writing I3
Total Hours23

Minimum Required Grade: C-


Directed Electives

Complete 10 credits of the following courses:10
Contracts
Principles of Real Estate
Criminal Procedures
Civil Litigation
Computers & Law
Contemporary Legal Issues
Trial Preparation
Family Law
Legal Research & Writing II
Legal Research & Writing III
Estate Administration
Total Hours10

Minimum Required Grade: C-