(FALL 2009)

A required course in the Paralegal Certificate Program.
Accurate and comprehensive research is paramount to preparing a sound and successful case. Equip yourself with the research methods you need as a paralegal to locate sources of federal and state law. Topics include legal terminology; proper citation form; sources of primary and secondary law; statutes and legislative history; court reports; validating legal research; and an introduction to computer legal research. Explore the array of legal research tools available. Ample practice in the library and assignments outside class give you the hands-on experience you need to locate and apply the law effectively on the job. Develop research skills which are essential to you in your role as a paralegal. This course requires significant time outside the classroom to complete assignments. This course requires significant time outside the classroom to complete assignments. Several class meetings will be held at Whittier Law Library.

Artin Betpera, J.D., has a practice at Green & Hall which is devoted to civil litigation in the areas of construction and real estate law. His practice constantly involves extensive research into complex areas of the law. Drawing from this experience, Mr. Betpera takes a pragmatic, real-world approach to legal research.