Course Name

Ethics and the Law

Contact Hours: 24

Course Description

Attorneys and paralegals need to engage in ethical behavior, because of the duties they owe to their clients and to the legal system. They have access to clients` information or property or to information disclosed with an expectation of confidentiality. Therefore, attorneys and paralegals need to appreciate the degree to which they have a duty to act so as best to serve a client`s interests and to advance the interests of justice. For this Basic Completion course,students will contact the instructor who will guide them on all course procedures. Students may query the instructor via e-mail and voice, regarding lessons, readings and interpretation of the materials. This course is based on an independent study model that allows the student to work through the program in a self-directed manner. Questions and return email communication can be engaged in for clarification and guidance when necessary.

Outcome

After having completed this course, students will have: Discovered the ethical considerations involved with legal activity; Seen that lawyers` obligations include representing the client zealously, keeping discussions confidential, and maintain accurate records for clients` funds; Discover what is involved in being able to practice the law; and See what limitations exist on lawyer advertising and solicitation

Assessment

Students will complete open-book multiple choice exams on each chapter of material in the course (where the course consists of 10 chapters of material). Completion of each chapter is based on achieving a score of 70% or more on tests provided.

Required Book(s)

Additional textbook required. Upon enrollment, please speak directly with the course instructor prior to purchasing the book.

Outline

An Introduction to Legal Ethics (Chapter 1): QUIZ Unauthorized Practice of the Law (Chapter 2); QUIZ Confidentiality (Chapter 3); QUIZ Conflict of Interest (Chapter 4); QUIZ Competent, Diligent and Zealous Representation of the Client (Chapter 5); QUIZ The Ethics of Legal Fees and Financial Matters (Chapter 6): QUIZ Maintaining Integrity and Public Respect for the Legal Profession (Chapter 7): QUIZ Advertising and Solicitation (Chapter 8); QUIZ Business Ethics for Everyone (Chapter 9) Quiz Ethics for the Twenty-First Century (Chapter 10) Quiz