PLG-115 Computers in the Law Office
This course introduces the fundamental of how to use computer technology to accomplish tasks performed by legal assistants or paralegals in a law office. Computer applications will include word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, timekeeping and billing, and case management.
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Course Outline
Course Description
This course introduces the fundamental of how to use computer technology to accomplish tasks performed by legal assistants or paralegals in a law office. Computer applications will include word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, timekeeping and billing, and case management.
Credit Hours
3Semester(s) Course Will Be Offered
Fall
Course Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to use various software programs used in the legal profession
- Prepare documents used in the administration of a law office, using legal software
- Demonstrate familiarity with electronic and automated courts
Topic Outline
- 1. Computers in the law office
- a. Basic computer concepts
- b. How computers help the paralegal
- c. Legal technology trends
- 2. Computer hardware and software
- a. Computer systems in general
- b. System components and peripherals
- c. Wide area networks
- d. Local area networks
- e. Extranets
- f. Introduction to computer software
- g. Operating systems
- h. Windows operating systems
- i. Utility software
- j. Application software
- 3. Word processing
- a. Word processing in general
- b. Special topics in word processing
- i. Typing and editing letters
- ii. Templates
- iii. Mail merge
- iv. Table of authorities
- v. Track Changes
- 4. Spreadsheet software
- a. Spreadsheets in general
- b. Structure of spreadsheets
- c. Text, values, and formulas
- d. Common types of graphs
- e. Copying formulas
- f. Use of spreadsheets by paralegals
- 5. Legal timekeeping and billing software
- a. Timekeeping and billing in general
- b. Computerized timekeeping and billing
- c. Generating reports
- d. Input of information
- 6. Case management and docket control software
- a. Calendaring, docket control, and case management
- b. Types of computerized docket control systems
- c. Entering names and matters
- d. Entering events
- e. Linking names, events, and matters
- f. Generating reports
- 7. Presentation software
- a. Presentation software in general
- b. Elements of good computer presentations
- c. Exploration of specific presentation software programs
- 8. Legal ethics connected with computers and software
- a. Confidentiality
- b. Competence
- c. Word processing issues
- i. Old client data in new documents
- ii. Improper forms or paragraphs selected
- iii. Failure to follow court rules
- iv. Unauthorized practice of law when preparing legal documents
- v. Prudent practices
- d. Conflicts of interest
- e. Billing practices
- f. Communication with clients
- g. Legal malpractice