LEGAL 275 - Criminal Law and Procedure

5.0 Credits
Course examines the fundamental concepts of criminal law and procedure from arrest to final disposition, including principles of state and federal law. Emphasizes the constitutional rights of defendants and the role of paralegals in the criminal justice system.
Prerequisite LEGAL 200 or instructor permission.
Course-level Learning Objectives (CLOs)
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Define the basic elements of common law crimes, including crimes against persons, habitation, property, public order and safety, and organized crime.
Demonstrate knowledge of the various legal defenses available to a criminal prosecution.
Demonstrate an understanding of criminal pretrial and trial considerations and procedures.
Explain the evidentiary issues and constitutional concerns associated with criminal law and procedure.
Identify a client’s individual needs and analyze the legal issues presented in a factual situation.
Develop an understanding of the state and federal constitutional rights of a criminal defendant, and the obligation of the criminal justice system to the accused, by study of the U.S. and Washington state constitutions and interpretive case law.
Demonstrate an understanding of the progress of a criminal case through the state and federal court systems by study of the Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Explain the processes of sentencing, punishment, and appellate review, including how to apply federal and state sentencing guidelines to convictions.
Describe the role of the paralegal in assisting an attorney or group of attorneys in the prosecution or defense of a criminal action, including the drafting of documents and pursuit of pretrial discovery.
Identify the unique ethical and legal rules that apply to the practice of criminal law and procedure, including the ethical obligations of paralegals working in this area of law.