Undergraduate Catalog 2011-2012
UDM Academic PoliciesCourse DescriptionsList of All ProgramsFaculty


LEGA 1100 Introduction to Law and Legal Terminology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to law and the legal system. The court structure is studied along with the sources of law in the United States. Important terminology and legal concepts are also examined. A brief overview is conducted in the major substantive areas of contracts, torts, property and family law. Civil and criminal procedure are also surveyed. Students learn how to analyze case law and construct case briefs.
300

LEGA 1200 Litigation I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This class will introduce the litigation process and state and federal civil procedure. Students will also learn client interview techniques and will draft pleadings.
300

LEGA 1300 Litigation Skills I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course introduces students to the civil litigation. Students will learn about and prepare documents pertaining to each step in a lawsuit. Students will also be exposed to the different issues that have to be considered during the litigation process.
300

LEGA 1310 Litigation Skills II and Ethics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
ENL 1310 (Minimum Grade of D, May not be taken concurrently)
LEGA 1100 (Minimum Grade of D, May not be taken concurrently)
LEGA 1300 (Minimum Grade of D, May not be taken concurrently)


This course is designed to provide students with a solid foundation for legal assistantship in the litigation setting. This course focuses on the discovery, trial and appellate phases of litigation
300

LEGA 2200 Contracts
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the basic elements of contract law. Students learn the concepts of offer, acceptance, consideration and performance. Of particular importance is the Uniform Commercial Code and its distinction from common law contract.
300

LEGA 2300 Family Law
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A basic introduction to the areas of domestic law; including such subjects as: divorce, parental rights, children's rights, the marriage contract, pre-nuptial agreements and paternity.
300

LEGA 2400 Real Estate Law
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the law relating to land transfers and finance. Includes mortgage, other security transactions, deeds, land contracts, sales contract, boundary descriptions, titles issues and title protection (title searches, recording and title insurance).
300

LEGA 2520 Probate I (Estates and Trusts)
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course introduces students to the procedural and substantive areas of probate law. Students will learn about wills, gifts, trusts as well as guardianships and conservatorships.
300

LEGA 2530 Probate II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course covers probate matters such as guardianships, conservatorships, adoptions and the Mental Health Code.
300

LEGA 2600 Personal Injury Law and Litigation
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the law pertaining to personal injury and property damage cases. Students will learn about the different area of tort law including intentional torts, negligence and strict liability.
300

LEGA 2650 Corporations Business Organizations
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A look at forms of business organizations, the sole proprietor, partnerships limited liability company and the corporation, with emphasis on procedures for setting up the corporate entity. Students will learn about the issues that need to be considered when a business entity is formed. Students will also learn about the different business statutes and the process for filing relevant forms with the relevant state authority.
300

LEGA 2750 Civil Procedure and Rules of Evidence
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


A study of the rules of procedure with an emphasis on the Michigan Court Rules and the Michigan Rules of Evidence.
300

LEGA 2800 Legal Research and Analysis I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
ENL 1310 (Minimum Grade of D, May not be taken concurrently)


An introduction to the law library and research tools. Develops basic skills in researching and analyzing legal problems. Emphasis is given to preparing and writing legal memoranda.
300

LEGA 2810 Legal Research and Analysis II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
LEGA 2800 (Minimum Grade of D, May not be taken concurrently)


Builds upon skills acquired in Legal Research I. Students prepare an Appellate Brief and other types of legal writing.
300

LEGA 2940 Legal Assistant internship
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Placement for students will be arranged with law firms, courts, corporations, etc. for on-the job training as a legal assistant. Supervising instructor consults with students individually or in a group meeting. Written report required. This course or a co-op equivalent is strongly recommended for every LA major and students must complete all core courses before placement.
300

LEGA 2990 Directed Studies
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An in-depth study of a selected topic.
100

LEGA 3350 Criminal Evidence
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


The student will learn what is sometime referred to as textbook 'Law and Order'. The balance of individual rights vs. the State's and victim's rights in the criminal justice system. We will examine all constitutional protection afforded the defendant through case briefs and class discussions.
300

LEGA 3400 Labor Law and Arbitration
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An overview of Employment Law as it relates to both private law firms and corporate legal departments with emphasis on Federal regulations with respect to employment discrimination, privacy issues, affirmative action, sexual harassment, age and disabilities. In addition, a review of the doctrine of 'employment at will'.
300

LEGA 3520 Criminal Law
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An examination of the purposes and goals of the criminal justice system. Elements of crime, the rights of criminal defendant and punishment and rehabilitation.
300

LEGA 3550 Criminal Evidence and Procedure
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Examination of the balance between law enforcement and individual rights and liberties. An overview of the scope of the constitutional law pertaining to basic due process, search and seizure, self-incrimination and the right to counsel. Basic criminal court procedures are also addressed.
300

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