(FALL 2009)

A required course in the Paralegal Certificate Program.
Obtain a thorough understanding of the law and procedures involved in filing a civil action from pre-complaint through the pleadings stage. Topics include pre-lawsuit issues such as the initial client meeting, demand letters, communicating with opposing party/counsel and filing pre-lawsuit claims. In addition, the following topics are covered: standing to sue, capacity to sue, proper joinder of parties, intervention and interpleader, subject matter jurisdiction, personal jurisdiction, venue, preparation and service of a summons, including service of out-of-state defendants, proper preparation of complaints, answers, cross-complaints, amended and supplemental pleadings, demurrers, motions to dismiss, motions to strike and motions for judgment on the pleading, and default judgments. Specific emphasis is placed upon the practical aspects of preparing and filing legal documents and students will be required to prepare witness statements, Judicial Council form complaints, verified complaints, answers and demurrers. This course is conducted through our online course management system. In addition, students are required to participate in 1-hour synchronous discussions. A computer and phone is required. Please refer to the Paralegal Online FAQs.

Renato Izquieta, J.D., is a staff attorney in the litigation unit of the Legal Aid Society of Orange County. Mr. Izquieta has been an attorney for eight years and has experience over a wide range and complex areas of civil law. In 2000, Mr. Izquieta received the Outstanding Litigator award by his former employer, Inland Counties Legal Services. Mr. Izquieta has been an instructor with the UCI Paralegal Program for the last 5 years. In 2005, Mr. Izquieta received the Outstanding Instructor award by UCI Extension.