University of New Haven

University of New Haven

Gain a successful career in the paralegal field

The stated goal of the legal studies program at the University of New Haven is to produce students educated and aware of the basic principles of law, and the societal role and function law has today. The program seeks to implant in students a obligation to lifelong learning and respect for others in a global society.

To become paralegals with the knowledge, values, and skills to perform effectively as professionals working under the supervision of attorneys in various legal environment is what the paralegal studies program options allow a person to do. The students also learn to become skilled and ethical participants in the legal system with the help of this program.

Program Objectives

• Students will be exposed to a broad, interdisciplinary study and intellectual experiences which are a university graduate's distinguishing traits
• Improve student's communicative, logical, quantitative analytical skills, as well as writing ability
• Instruct students in conducting legal research using standard law library materials and also give instruction in computer-assisted legal research programs to locate source material,both primary and secondary
• Students will be provided an understanding of the government structure and the American legal system
• The American legal system, including governmental structure and the court system provide students with an understanding of inductive, deductive and analogical reasoning processes, and to use legal reasoning in the application of legal principles to fact situations
• They will be able to read cases with understanding and apply case law to legal problems
• Instruct students to enable them to read cases with comprehension and apply case law to legal issues
• Give students an overview of the rules of professional conduct for attorneys and paralegals
• Provide a strong foundation for ethical decision-making and develop professionalism as legal professionals
• Teach students to conduct effective factual investigations, including best-practice procedures for accessing information and materials, and to interview clients and witnesses using effective oral communication skills
• Cultivate a student's knowledge of the special concerns and skills comprised in a legal setting, involving case and time management, billing, client relations, and working with attorney supervisors
• Students get exposure to alternative methods of dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration
• The will learn that an awareness and respect for cultural differences is vital to success