The Paralegal program trains students to assist trial attorneys, interview witnesses, investigate complex fact patterns, research the law and assist in preparing cases for courtroom litigation. The instruction is practice-oriented and relates to those areas of the law in which legal assistants are most in demand. Designed for beginning as well as advanced legal workers. Students must complete both courses to receive the Paralegal Certificate of completion. Paralegal 1 is a prerequisite to Paralegal 2. Paralegal 2 is a prerequisite to Advanced Paralegal.
Paralegal I & II Courses
BUS 359: PARALEGAL I Introduction to Paralegal Studies
This course provides the foundation for the study of paralegalism. During this first session, you will gain a detailed understanding of the American legal system, legal terminology, and ethics. You will learn how to prepare pleadings, discovery, motions, and briefs and will review the rules of evidence and civil procedure.
BUS 359: PARALEGAL II Advanced Paralegal Concepts
This course continues the legal education developed in Paralegal I. You will learn advanced skills including legal research, writing and proper citation format. You will also be taught how to prepare important legal documents relating to real property, corporations, partnerships, wills, trusts, bankruptcy, and domestic relations. You will study formal and informal advocacy techniques and principles of appellate procedure.
Advanced Paralegal Certificate
Requirements
Students are required to successfully complete Paralegal I and Paralegal II before registering for advanced courses. Advanced Paralegal Course topics do not have to be taken in any particular order.
Upon successful completion of at least six Advanced Paralegal Course topics, students will receive an Advanced Paralegal Certificate of Completion. Each course is offered in a seven-week online session or in text-based format, which can be completed in six months or less. Most courses in the Advanced Paralegal curriculum are $525. Prices range from $660 tp $729. Up to three Advanced Paralegal Course topics may be taken during a seven-week session.
Available Advanced Courses by Term
- Fall 1 term (16 weeks)
- Fall 2 term (8 weeks)
- Spring 1 term (16 weeks)
- Spring 2 (8 weeks)
- Summer term (12 weeks)
Advanced Courses
- BUS 379 Bankruptcy Law
- BUS 379 Business Law & Practices*
- BUS 379 Estate Planning
- BUS 379 Immigration Law
- BUS 379 Intellectual Property
- ED 379 Education Law
- BUS 479 Alternative Dispute Resolution
- POLS 379 Constitutional Law*
- POLS 379 Family Law
- POLS 479 Advanced Legal Research
- SOC 379 Criminal Law
- SOC 379 Criminal Procedure
- SOC 379 Victim Advocacy
*The courses marked with an asterisk (*) do not satisfy the requirements of the Adams State University Business core. If you are an Adams State degree-seeking student, please contact your advisor for more information.
Textbooks
To order textbooks, please call the Center For Legal Studies at 303-273-9777
You may register by doing the following:
- Request or download a copy of the registration form. Complete it and mail to Adams State Extended Studies.
Note: You must submit a new registration form for each term in which you take courses.
