Paralegal Studies
9 courses · Chabot College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026
PLGL 30 Introduction to Paralegal Studies
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Advisory
- ADMJ 50
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course will introduce students to the responsibilities and duties of a paralegal. It will provide an overview of the paralegal profession, including the paralegal's role in the delivery of legal services.
PLGL 31 Legal Writing and Research
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Advisory
- ADMJ 50
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed to familiarize students with the fundamentals of legal research and writing. Students will learn how to locate, analyze and cite to federal and state cases, statutes, constitutions, and secondary sources. Instruction is given on utilizing both print materials and online resources. Students will prepare case briefs that demonstrate legal reasoning, proper punctuation, grammar and clarity of expression.
PLGL 32 Litigation and Civil Procedure
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Advisory
- ADMJ 50
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides an introduction to the litigation process and the role of the paralegal. It will include the process and procedures related to litigation, including the specific duties of a paralegal in the pretrial and trial process.
PLGL 33 Computer Application and E-Discovery for Paralegals
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course introduces the use of technology by paralegals in the legal profession. Students will become familiar with hardware and software used in law offices and will explore the latest versions of common programs like Microsoft® Word, Excel®, and PowerPoint®, as well as specialized legal applications. Students will be instructed on the ethical considerations of technology in the legal profession.
PLGL 34 Professional Responsibility and Ethics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Advisory
- ADMJ 50
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides students with a practical understanding of the professional codes of conduct and the general principles of ethical legal conduct governing the practice of law.
PLGL 35 Advanced Legal Writing and Research
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Prerequisite
- PLGL 31
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed to build upon the skills developed in Legal Writing and Research. This course will provide a more in-depth, advanced understanding of legal writing, research, proper citation format, and preparation of legal documents.
PLGL 36 Contract Law
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Advisory
- ADMJ 50
- Transfers to
- CSU
As part of the Paralegal Program, this course will examine the fundamental elements of contract law, including the principals of formation, agreement, and consideration. Students will also learn contract interpretation, the necessary elements for creating legally enforceable contracts, and breach and remedies.
PLGL 37 Tort Law
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Advisory
- PLGL 30
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course focuses on the fundamental concepts of tort law, including intentional torts, negligence, trespass, strict liability, personal injury, mental distress, as well as commonly employed defenses. This course will help fulfill the requirements of the 24-unit Paralegal Studies Certificate.
PLGL 38 Criminal Law and Procedure
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces students to the practice of criminal law. Emphasis is placed on criminal procedure from arrest to the appeals process. Case law and case studies will be used to examine prosecution, defense, and appellate processes. There will be discussions regarding the doctrine of criminal liability, the classification of crimes against persons, property, morals, and public welfare, criminal culpability, and defenses to crime.