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LAW 202 Legal Interviewing, Negotiating and Advocacy (3)
3 hours lecture per week
Prerequisite(s): Paralegal program major; a grade of “C” or higher in LAW 111 or a grade of “C” or higher in LAW 136.
Recommended Preparation: Credit in or qualification for ENG 100 or ESL 100.
Comment: LAW 202 may not be audited
LAW 202 is designed to sharpen verbal and written communication skills, interviewing techniques, and negotiation and advocacy strategies. Body language and beginning and advanced interviewing techniques will be covered. Dealing with different types of clients, including an emotional client and a reluctant client, will also be included. Negotiation, informed consent, and the authority to negotiate will be taught, as well as negotiation differences between large and small cases. In the advocacy area, direct and cross-examination techniques will be covered. Administrative hearings will be covered as paralegals can play an active role in advocacy in administrative hearings. Role playing and critical analysis will be used to assist in the development of appropriate skills.
Upon successful completion of LAW 202, the student should be able to:
- Prepare to conduct a client interview.
- Obtain relevant facts and information from the interviewee to determine likelihood of success of a legal action.
- Identify and incorporate effective communication skills in interviewing.
- Prepare for effective negotiation with an opposing party.
- Present a case before an administrative agency.
- Outline and draft opening statement, direct and cross examination, closing argument.