May 25, 2026  
2026-2027 Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Catalog
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PAL 116 - Technology in Law/Experimental


Credits: 3
3 Lecture Hours

Prerequisites: PAL 101 , PAL 111 , CIT 100  

 
Description
This course examines the intersection of law and technology with emphasis on the role of the paralegal in technology-driven legal environments and a focus on the practical skills and ethical responsibilities required in modern legal environments. Practical instruction is provided for legal technology tools and applications commonly used in law offices, courts, and corporate legal departments. Students develop competencies in case management software, document automation, calendaring, communication systems, time and document management programs, litigation support and trial presentation software. Special attention is given to confidentiality, data governance, professional responsibility, and technology competence as required by modern ethics standards.


Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

  1. Explain the role of technology in modern legal practice, including its impact on efficiency, access to justice, and client services.
  2. Describe ethical rules governing technology use in legal settings, including confidentiality, data security, and professional competence.
  3. Summarize the electronic filing (e-filing) process and applicable court procedural requirements.
  4. Identify key components of the discovery process, including litigation technology tools and the Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM).
  5. Discuss the function of Artificial Intelligence, blockchain technology and electronic databases in legal practice and regulatory environments.
  6. Recognize the role of courtroom technology and digital presentation systems in trial advocacy and litigation support.
Listed Topics
  1. Ethics
  2. Electronic filings
  3. Electronic Discovery
  4. Case Management Systems
  5. Legal Billing
  6. Electronic Communications and Storage
  7. Potential risks with Artificial Intelligence, Large Language Models, and document automation
Reference Materials
Textbook and materials as deemed appropriate by the instructor. 
Students who successfully complete this course acquire general knowledge, skills and abilities that align with CCAC’s definition of an educated person. Specifically, this course fulfills these General Education Goals:
  • Communication
  • Information Literacy


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