Course Outline for Paralegal Studies 33
Computer Application and E-Discovery for Paralegals

Effective: Fall 2019
SLO Rev: 09/18/2018
Catalog Description:

PLGL 33 - Computer Application and E-Discovery for Paralegals

3.00 Units

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.
Advisory: All students must have basic computer skills including being proficient with email, the Internet and a word processing program.
1402.00 - Paralegal*
Optional
Type Units Inside of Class Hours Outside of Class Hours Total Student Learning Hours
Lecture 3.00 54.00 108.00 162.00
Total 3.00 54.00 108.00 162.00
Measurable Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
  1. Identify computer hardware.
  2. Describe legal software systems frequently used by paralegals.
  3. Practice using various legal software systems, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, database management systems, and timekeeping and billing.
  4. Describe the process of electronic discovery and use e-discovery software to conduct discovery in hypothetical cases.
  5. Use database management systems to organize docketing and scheduling, and document management and retention.
  6. Discuss the need for working in a secure environment, including discussion of ethical considerations, ensuring client confidences, and maintaining computer security.
Course Content:
  1. Computer Basics
    1. Define computer and identify the basic computing functions
    2. Identify types of hardware devices and their uses
    3. Identify types of software and their uses
    4. Identify ethically responsible and safe computing practices
    5. Describe networks
    6. Define network terms
  2. Recognize technology terminology in legal organizations
    1. Data Managment Systems
    2. Privilege and privilege logs
    3. Bates stamping
    4. Retention policy 
    5. Litigation hold
    6. Electronically stored information (ESI)
  3. Acquire tools for legal and factual research
  4. Drafting documents
    1. Legal documents
    2. Spreadsheets
    3. Legal emails
  5. The importance of time and billing
    1. How time is kept
    2. How time is entered in time managment software
  6. Recognize the use and ethical issues of technology
    1. Privilege
    2. Client confidentiality 
    3. Cloud computing
    4. Social media
  7. Specialized legal software
    1. Case management software
    2. Docket control programs
    3. Litigation support programs 
    4. Other specialized legal software
Methods of Instruction:
  1. Demonstration/Exercise
  2. Online Assignments
  3. Lecture/Discussion
  4. Textbook reading assignments
  5. Computer-based interactive curriculum
  6. Distance Education
Assignments and Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:
  1. Redact sample legal documents to remove confidential and privileged legal information using Adobe Reader and database management software. 2. Create a privilege log. 3. Draft a sample pleading in Microsoft Office. 4. Enter time into legal time and billing software. 5. Draft legal email to different persons in the legal system including the client, court, and opposing counsel. 6. Create a spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel. 7. Create slides for a closing argument in PowerPoint.
  1. Attendance
  2. Final Examination or Project
  3. Demonstration of practice and skills
  4. Exams/Tests
  5. Class Participation
  6. Homework
Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:
  1. Explain the role of the paralegal in utilizing technology in a legal setting including: word processing and document assembly, spreadsheets, database management, law office management, case management and litigation support.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of computer technology and the use of computer hardware and software in the law office.
  3. Demonstrate an understanding of and the ability to utilize various computer applications in the law office.
  4. Explain the use of and demonstrate the ability to perform computer-assisted legal research.
Textbooks (Typical):
  1. Cornick, M.A. (2019). Using Computers in the Law Office (8th ). Cengage.
  2. Asselin, Barb (2017). Computer Applications for Paralegals (1st). Asselin Group.
Abbreviated Class Schedule Description:
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.
Advisory: All students must have basic computer skills including being proficient with email, the Internet and a word processing program.