LCRES - Legal Research
Course Description
This course is designed to acquaint learners with the fundamentals of legal research. The first part of this course introduces the learner to different sources of law (both primary and secondary) and explains how they are applied by courts in common and civil law jurisdictions. The second part of this course offers hands-on experience with computer-assisted legal research and analysis including teaching learners how to identify legal issues, construct a list of key terms and search queries, locate answers in primary and secondary sources, and apply findings to a client’s situation. The third part of this course teaches learners how to update and validate findings and how to properly cite and present their work to a supervising attorney. Emphasis is on the development of research skills, working with enacted law, judicial decisions, secondary sources, the West Key Number System®, KeyCite®, and The Bluebook®, A Uniform System of Citation. This course includes Westlaw access for students for the duration of their time in the paralegal program after passing this course.
The textbooks for this course are listed in the course syllabus in CE Moodle.
Software and other resources include: Basic Internet access, Westlaw, local library (preferably a law library, if available)
This course is a part of the Paralegal Studies Program. You must apply and be accepted into the program in order to enroll in this course.
For more information about this course, please contact Alanna Clanton at (225) 578-6760.
Prerequisites
Students must be enrolled in or completed Principles of Paralegal Studies.Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Paralegal Studies Certificate : Paralegal Studies Certificate
English Proficiency Requirements
Continuing Education Programs
Continuing Education (CE) courses and programs offered online through LSU Online & Continuing Education typically include a combination of lecture and discussion as well as reading and writing assignments. You need an adequate command of English in all skill areas (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) to participate in classes.
If English is not your native language, you must meet one of the English language proficiency requirements below to be successful in our CE programs. If you intend to register for a CE course or program, you can determine whether you meet English proficiency requirements by self-assessment prior to enrolling. We want to empower you, the learner, to progress successfully. Completing this self-assessment will enable you to make a good decision on whether you can complete one of our programs.
Intermediate English Skills
Most CE professional development courses and programs require at least intermediate English skills, which are equivalent to a B2 level of English language proficiency on the Self-Assessment Form. When assessing yourself, be sure to read through each of the categories under Column B2 to make sure you meet proficiency requirements.
Advanced English Skills
Online Distance Learning courses and microcreds are for-credit courses and might require more advanced English skills, equivalent to a C1 level on the Learner Self-Assessment Form. Be sure to read through each of the categories under Column C1 to make sure you meet proficiency requirements.