These advanced topics build upon the nationally acclaimed Paralegal Certificate Course^©. These classes are available to students who wish to extensively build upon their knowledge of law and paralegal studies with classes in specialized facets of contemporary law. Your study and concentration on substantively specific materials will enable you to gain a strong competitive edge over other paralegals. The additional training gained through participation in these advanced classes will embellish your legal knowledge and skills, which in turn should increase your salary and marketability.

*Those who successfully complete at least six advanced topics will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.

Completing both the Core Requirements and the Advanced Requirements of the Paralegal Certificate Program provides comprehensive training and skills that should enable graduates to work in the quickly-growing paralegal profession. The two parts in combination have been designed to meet the requirements of the California Business and Professional Code §6450, legislation that took effect in California on 1/1/01.

Course Description
The course begins with an overview of the concept of punishment and goes on to study the burden of proof and criminal defenses; it also provides a critical look at the most common crimes. Students will learn common terminology in criminal law and how to consider a crime thoroughly in terms of its elements.

Additional Information
Students are required to complete six Advanced Paralegal Course topics to receive a certificate. Each topic is offered in a seven-week online session. Students must successfully complete the Core Requirements before they take the Advanced Paralegal Course. Up to three Advanced Paralegal Course topics may betaken during a seven-week online session and Advanced Paralegal Course topics do not have to be taken in any particular order. 

Required Books

Criminal Law in a Nutshell, 5th Edition - ISBN 978-0-314-19496-1

Highly Recommended Books

Oran's Dictionary of the Law, 4th Edition - ISBN 978-1-4180-8091-4

WESTLAW

Prerequisites
Successful completion of Paralegal 1 and Paralegal 2, other equivalent, or law office experience.