GVPT 457 6380 Week 4 Paper 1
This project focuses on the lasting influence of the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference and the institutions it established, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, on U.S. trade policy. It examines how these institutions have shaped the U.S.'s approach to international trade, economic development, and global governance, addressing both historical foundations and contemporary implications.
September 2024 -
Research Projects
GVPT 457 6380 Week 8 Paper 2
This project focuses on the evolution of U.S. foreign policy towards Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union, with particular emphasis on the balance of military deterrence, economic sanctions, and diplomatic efforts. It will explore how U.S. responses to critical events like the annexation of Crimea and the invasion of Ukraine have shaped contemporary U.S.-Russia relations, as well as the constraints posed by domestic politics, global economic interdependencies, and Russia’s hybrid warfare strategies.
September 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 325 6380 Project 3 W8
Project 3 for the course requires students to switch groups and prepare a formal legal memorandum demonstrating their understanding of contract law. Group 1 (last names N-Z) will now represent Leonard Jones for P&G, and Group 2 (last names A-M) will represent the Mulvanerys for TLDT. The project involves evaluating a settlement offer based on the facts and laws related to fraud, misrepresentation, and the right to rescission under Maryland case law. Students must research the likelihood of success on the merits of the case and the defendants' ability to discharge a judgment by filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. The assignment requires a recommendation on the settlement offer, supported by relevant case law and statutes. The memorandum should be double-spaced, formatted with proper Bluebook citations, and include a thorough analysis of the case, potential outcomes, and rationale for the recommendation. Students must proofread their work for spelling and grammatical errors and ensure all required elements are present before submitting it to the Assignment Folder.
July 2024 -
Research Projects
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LGST 340 6380 Week 8 Project 2
Project 2 focuses on elements of contract law, remedies, defenses, and enforceability. Students are required to analyze three hypothetical fact scenarios, conduct legal research, and apply relevant laws to reach legal conclusions. The project aims to meet course outcomes, including researching applicable law, analyzing contract issues, and explaining contract concepts. The scenarios involve disputes over contract terms, fraudulent conduct in sales, and contract enforceability regarding illegal activities. The first scenario discusses the interpretation of a contract for the sale of chickens, examining the parol evidence rule. The second scenario addresses whether a car buyer can disaffirm a contract based on fraud and the legal implications if the car was destroyed. The third scenario analyzes the enforceability of a contract for illegal dumping and potential restitution claims. Students must write their analyses in paragraph format, label each part of the analysis, and use Bluebook citation format for all references.
July 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 495 6380 Week 8 Project 3
Project 3 is a continuation of the Learning Activity from week 7. It aims to enhance students' legal research, analysis, and application of relevant laws and facts. This project requires the submission of a memorandum to Attorney Casey to prepare for mediation in the case involving the Coopers' claims against Robbie, Frankie, and the Latchkeys. The memo should outline the strengths and weaknesses of the case for each party, presenting arguments and counterarguments supported by cited legal resources. The memorandum should conclude with an assessment of the most likely result for each party. The format includes double spacing, 12 pt. Arial or Times New Roman font, 1-inch margins, and appropriate Bluebook citations without parallel citations. The final document should be in Word or RTF format. Students must review the project requirements, grading rubric, and proofread their work before submission. If technical issues arise, students should email the project to the professor and ensure it is submitted to the Assignment Folder. The work must be original, properly cited, and adhere to UMGC’s policies on academic integrity.
July 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 325 6380 Project 1 W3
The Project 1 for the course aims for students to research, analyze, and prepare an advisory on the American legal system, focusing on the distinctions between the criminal and civil systems. This project contributes to course outcomes by requiring students to make recommendations for civil litigation investigation and trial preparation, and to draft memos identifying and analyzing civil procedural issues. Students are divided into two groups: Group 1 (last names A-M) representing Leonard Jones for P&G, and Group 2 (last names N-Z) representing the Mulvaneys for TLDT. The task involves creating a brochure narrative for clients unfamiliar with the legal system. The brochure should include an overview of the American legal system, detailing the civil and criminal law components, their similarities and differences, and the roles of participants in each system. The narrative should be approximately 3-4 pages, double-spaced, in Arial or Times Roman, size 12 font, with a cover page and a resources page for citations. Students are encouraged to support their information with cited research and to ensure their work is original and adheres to academic integrity policies. The final submission should be proofread and reviewed against the grading rubric to ensure completeness and correctness before submission to the Assignment Folder.
June 2024 -
Research Projects
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LGST 325 6380 Learning Activity W4
The Learning Activity 4 for the course involves researching and preparing a memo on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Students must read all assigned materials and use proper Bluebook citations in their responses. The class is divided into two groups: Group 1 (last names A-M) representing Leonard Jones for P&G, and Group 2 (last names N-Z) representing the Mulvaneys for TLDT. Each group is tasked with creating a memo for their managing attorney, focusing on three forms of ADR: Negotiation, Mediation, Binding Arbitration, Early Neutral Intervention, or Mini Trial. The memo should describe the processes, how results are achieved, and whether results may be appealed. The conclusion should analyze the facts of the breach of contract (BOC) case and recommend the most appropriate ADR method. The memo format includes a cover page, an introductory section, detailed sections for each form of ADR, a conclusion with recommendations, and a references page. The narrative should be double-spaced, in Arial or Times Roman, size 12 font, and use professional writing skills with proper Bluebook citations. The memo will be used to discuss ADR processes and recommendations with the respective clients to resolve the case without further litigation.
June 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 325 6380 Project 2 W5
The purpose of Project 2 is for students to research relevant law, analyze facts and issues, and apply relevant law to the discovery process. This project meets the course outcomes by preparing students to make recommendations and complete tasks regarding discovery and trial preparation for civil litigation, as well as research and draft pleadings. Students are divided into two groups: Group 1 (last names A-M) representing Leonard Jones for P&G, and Group 2 (last names N-Z) representing the Mulvaneys for TLDT. The case has been filed in the Circuit Court for Montgomery County, Maryland, and has entered the discovery phase. P&G team members must draft ten interrogatories and ten requests for production of documents to the defendant, while TLDT team members must draft the same to the plaintiff. Both sets of documents must adhere to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 33 and Maryland Code §2-421, which limit interrogatories to 25, including subparts. The documents should be in proper pleading format, use correct Bluebook citations, be thoroughly proofread, and follow the provided samples. All work must be original, and students must adhere to the Academic Integrity and plagiarism policy.
June 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 325 6380 Learning Activity W6
Learning Activity 6 for the course requires students to switch groups: last names A-M to TLDT representing the Mulvanerys and N-Z to P&G representing Leonard Jones. This assignment involves preparing a legal memorandum to help clients understand the scope of damages in their breach of contract (BOC) case. Students must define and analyze compensatory, consequential, and punitive damages, providing practical examples related to contract cases and determining their applicability to the current case. Additionally, the memo should clarify the terms rescission and restitution, distinguishing them with case law analysis from Maryland. The memo must be formatted with correct Bluebook citations, double-spaced, and use 12-point Arial or Times Roman font, including a separate References page.
June 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 325 6380 Learning Activity W7
The Learning Activity 7 for the course focuses on preparing students for trial and composing a Settlement Demand Letter. Students are instructed to read all assigned materials and use proper Bluebook citations in their responses. The class is divided into two groups: Group 1 representing Leonard Jones for P&G, and Group 2 representing the Mulvaneys for TLDT. The assignment is in two parts. In Part 1, students must write a Settlement Demand Letter addressed to either Jennifer Piazza at P&G or Robert Gonzalez at TLDT, arguing for why the case should be settled and proposing a settlement amount, supported by relevant statutes and case law. In Part 2, students must record a 3-5 minute video briefing their managing attorney on the proposed settlement terms. The video should be natural, professional, and well-organized, avoiding merely reading the letter. Both the letter and video must be uploaded to the Week 7 Learning Activity Tab. The report must be double-spaced, formatted with proper Bluebook citations, and include a separate references page. The video should be clear and well-prepared, reflecting a typical briefing for a supervisor.
June 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 340 6380 Learning Activity W3
The Learning Activity W3 involves analyzing a legal dispute related to a contest organized by TECH, a technology firm, and determining whether TECH is legally obligated to pay prize money to Greenville High School (GHS) and Verdeville High School (VHS) for their participation. Students must read all assigned materials and use only these materials in their responses. The assignment requires an understanding of contract law principles to evaluate the obligations of TECH towards the participating schools. Additionally, students need to suggest language for future contest announcements to prevent similar disputes. The report must be formatted with proper Bluebook citations, double-spaced, and include a separate references page.
June 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 340 6380 Learning Activity W4
The Learning Activity W4 involves preparing a report for a client named Aaron, who consults Lillian Liberty about a possible lawsuit concerning his snow shoveling business. Students must read all assigned materials and use only these materials in their responses. The assignment requires an analysis of whether Aaron has contracts with homeowners and if he is entitled to restitution for unrequested snow shoveling. The report must be formatted with proper Bluebook citations, double-spaced, and include a separate references page.
June 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 340 6380 Week 4 Project 1
The Project 1 Week 4 assignment involves creating a PowerPoint presentation comparing the common law mirror image rule with the UCC "Battle of the Forms" and evaluating a contract dispute between Parsons manufacturing company and Quality Furniture Company (QFC). The presentation is intended to explain these legal concepts clearly and comprehensively for a client meeting. Students must use only the assigned materials to complete the project and include proper Bluebook citations
June 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 340 6380 Learning Activity W5
The Learning Activity W5 for the course focuses on contract disaffirmance and fraud analysis. Students are instructed to read all assigned materials and use them exclusively for writing their learning activities, avoiding internet resources. The scenario involves Jennifer, who is almost 18 and has just graduated from high school, purchasing a used Honda Civic from Shania's dealership, Premier Used Cars. Shania falsely represents the car’s mileage, leading to Jennifer's purchase. The task requires an analysis of whether Jennifer can disaffirm the contract based on Shania’s fraudulent conduct, applying the four elements of fraud. Additionally, students must analyze whether Jennifer can disaffirm the contract solely because she is a minor if Shania's representations were accurate. The analysis must be written in complete sentences and paragraph format, labeled as “Fact Scenario II,” with each part labeled numerically. The assignment should be double-spaced, using Arial or Times New Roman, size 12 font, and submitted to the Assignment Folder.
June 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 340 6380 Learning Activity W6
The Learning Activity for Week 6 requires students to assist Attorney Lillian Liberty in expanding the firm's sports law practice by addressing the concerns of a new client, Dwayne Simpson, a water polo player. Simpson has been drafted by the Baltimore Pool Ponys and is negotiating his first player contract. The task involves researching and analyzing contract law to provide informal summary notes addressing Simpson's questions about his contract's enforceability. Specifically, students must analyze whether the contract terms must be in writing to be enforceable if the contract is "for six years," "for as long as Dwayne Simpson can play water polo," or "for five years, but if Dwayne Simpson is injured, the contract is terminated." The summary notes should be written in paragraph format, labeled for each question, and use Arial or Times New Roman, size 12 font. The notes will be used in a meeting with Liberty and Simpson.
June 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 340 6380 Learning Activity W7
The Learning Activity for Week 7 focuses on analyzing a breach of contract case involving Marcella, a portrait painter, and her client, Dillon. Students are instructed to use only the assigned materials and submit their work to the Assignment Folder. Marcella is being sued by Dillon for failing to deliver a portrait on the agreed date of February 13 due to a fire that destroyed her studio and the painting. Attorney Liberty, representing Marcella, has tasked the student with researching possible defenses to Dillon’s allegation. The analysis should address the potential defense Marcella could claim, its likely success, and the impact of the fire occurring on February 7 instead of February 13. The report must be written in paragraph format with complete sentences, using Arial or Times Roman, size 12 font.
June 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 495 6380 Learning Activity W3
The Week 3 Learning Activity involves developing a legal research plan and writing a memorandum on the viability of a negligence claim against Frank’s Flowers by the occupants of a MINI Cooper. Frank wants to know if he has any defenses since he did not authorize Robbie to use the van after work. Before writing, students are instructed to develop a legal research strategy. They must review the "Legal Research Strategies" reading and complete Steps 1-4. In Step 1, students respond to a set of questions using a bulleted list. For Step 2, they provide search terms and phrases in a separate bulleted list. Step 3 requires locating at least three primary and two secondary sources of law, summarizing key points, identifying the relationship to the legal issue, and providing Bluebook citations. In Step 4, students validate the primary sources using KeyCite in Westlaw, explaining whether each source is still good law, including analysis of any negative treatment. The final paper should be well-organized with an introduction, body, and conclusion, double-spaced, in 12 pt. Arial or Times Roman font, with 1” margins, and proper Bluebook citations.
June 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 495 6380 Learning Activity W4
The Week 4 Learning Activity focuses on the criminal plea bargain and legal ethics. After Robbie's arrest following a car accident and his subsequent breathalyzer result of .02, he was charged with leaving the scene of an accident and driving under the influence. Concerned about losing his college scholarship and job, Robbie seeks Attorney Collins' help. Attorney Collins negotiates a plea bargain with the state's attorney, offering probation before judgment, a one-year driving license suspension, 100 hours of community service, and participation in the Ignition Interlock System Program for two years. If Robbie meets these conditions, the charges will be dropped, and he can petition for expungement of his arrest record. Attorney Collins requests a memo between 250 and 750 words, researching Maryland law to evaluate the plea bargain's advantages for Robbie. Additionally, a personal assessment on whether plea bargaining furthers social justice in the American legal system must be included. The paper must be well-organized, double-spaced, use 12-point Arial or Times New Roman font, and 1” margins, with proper Bluebook citations for all sources.
June 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 495 6380 Week 3 Project 1
Project 1 for the course requires students to conduct legal research, analysis, and application of relevant laws and facts. The project involves creating an 8 to 12-slide Microsoft® PowerPoint® presentation with detailed Speaker Notes addressing potential liability for parents hosting parties where alcohol is served. Attorney Collins has been asked by the Montgomery County High School Parents Association to present a training session on this topic. The presentation must answer specific questions about Maryland law regarding parents serving alcohol to minors, the differences between types of alcohol, the implications of serving wine at religious events, liability for underage drinking on a parent's property, and potential liability for accidents or injuries following such parties. Students must reference at least two resources from the weekly learning materials, include three visuals, and cite all sources in APA format in the Speaker Notes. The opening slide should include the student's name, class name and number, and the date of submission. No cover memo is required. The concluding slide should list all resources used. The presentation should avoid directly quoted material.
June 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 495 6380 Week 5 Project 2
Project 2 requires students to submit their work to the Assignment Folder and focuses on legal research, analysis, and application of relevant laws and facts. Attorney Collins has received a complaint in Montgomery County, Maryland, and has tasked the student with preparing a memorandum. The memorandum should identify any counts in the complaint that could be subject to a Motion to Dismiss, specify which counts and the basis for dismissal, and outline potential defenses for Robbie, the Latchkeys, or Frank’s Flowers. The memorandum must start with a brief summary of the assignment and reference each element of the complaint by number.
June 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 495 6380 Learning Activity W6
The Week 6 Learning Activity focuses on the discovery phase for the Robinson case. Students are required to create a table in Microsoft Word that addresses specific information about discovery methods. The table should have four columns titled: Discovery Method, Citation to Maryland Procedural Rule, Types of Information Sought for Defense, and Explanation for Information Sought. Each row in the table should cover one of the two effective discovery methods chosen. For each method, students must identify and describe the method, provide a Bluebook citation to the relevant Maryland procedural rule, and analyze the specific types of information sought for the defense of the lawsuit filed by the Coopers against Robbie, explaining why this information is needed. The assignment must be submitted to the Assignment Folder in a properly formatted and complete manner, using Bluebook citation format for all references.
June 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 495 6380 Learning Activity W7
The Week 7 Learning Activity focuses on exploring Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods. Students are required to analyze and contrast at least two types of ADR that could be appropriate for resolving claims involving All-Nation Insurance company and various insured parties: Frank Flowers, Inc., Robert Robertson, and the Latchkeys. All-Nation Insurance, aiming to facilitate a resolution for the Coopers' claims, has tasked Attorney Collins with recommending the best ADR method. Attorney Collins, in turn, has asked students to conduct research on viable ADR alternatives, drawing from assigned readings or additional research. Students must write a short memo, one to two pages long, that evaluates the pros and cons of at least two ADR methods and recommends the most suitable option for the case, justifying their choice based on the specifics of the situation. The memo should provide a concise and well-supported analysis to assist Attorney Collins in advising All-Nation Insurance on the most effective way to resolve the claims outside of traditional litigation.
June 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 325 6380 Learning Activity W1
The Learning Activity 1 for the course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of court jurisdiction. Students are instructed to read all assigned materials and use proper Bluebook citations in their responses. The class is divided into two groups: Group 1 (last names A-M) representing Leonard Jones for P&G, and Group 2 (last names N-Z) representing the Mulvaneys for TLDT. Each group must prepare a summary report addressing specific legal questions about court jurisdiction for their respective clients. These questions involve identifying the appropriate Maryland state court for filing a breach of contract case, the appellate court for judgments, considerations for selecting the forum given the defendants' residency in Virginia, the implications of SL&B being a franchisee, and whether the case could be moved to federal court in Virginia. The report must be double-spaced, formatted with proper Bluebook citations, and include a separate references page
May 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 325 6380 Learning Activity W2
The Learning Activity 2 for the course focuses on understanding personal jurisdiction. Students are instructed to read all assigned materials and use proper Bluebook citations in their responses. The class is divided into two groups: Group 1 (last names A-M) representing Leonard Jones for P&G, and Group 2 (last names N-Z) representing the Mulvaneys for TLDT. Each group must prepare a summary report addressing specific hypothetical scenarios related to personal jurisdiction to present at the next Lunch & Learn session. These scenarios involve determining if personal jurisdiction exists in various states based on the minimum contacts principle. Scenario 1 involves a contractual dispute between businesses in California and Arizona, while Scenario 2 involves a food poisoning case at a franchised store with considerations for jurisdiction in Delaware, Maryland, Illinois, and Virginia. Additionally, students must consider federal court jurisdiction. After completing the scenarios, students must grade their assignment using the provided rubric and upload both the assignment and rubric for assessment. The report must be double-spaced, formatted with proper Bluebook citations, and include a separate references page.
May 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 340 6380 Learning Activity W1
The Learning Activity W1 requires students to research and summarize information relevant to a sales transaction dispute for Attorney Liberty's long-time client, Wilson. Students must read the assigned materials for the week and use only those materials for their responses. The facts of the case involve Wilson, a Maryland resident, who bought a boat from RoseAnn, a South Carolina resident, with the sale negotiated and the contract signed in New York. The contract specifies that it shall be governed by Arkansas law. After discovering mechanical problems with the boat's engine, Wilson filed a lawsuit in New York. Students are tasked with preparing a summary report for Attorney Liberty addressing the following questions: identifying the forum state in Wilson’s case and explaining its significance, analyzing whether Arkansas has a substantial relationship with the parties/contract to apply the parties’ choice of law, and evaluating whether a change in the boat’s registration state to Georgia would affect the forum state. The report must be formatted with correct, complete sentences in paragraph format, using Arial or Times New Roman, size 12 font.
May 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 340 6380 Learning Activity W2
The Learning Activity W2 involves preparing responses to hypothetical scenarios for a professional training seminar. Students must read all assigned materials and use only these materials in their responses. The assignment requires students to analyze a scenario involving a developer's attempt to purchase beachside property and determine whether a contract was formed on specific dates. On April 10th, the developer offered to buy the property for $1,000,000, but the owner countered with $1,500,000. The developer later offered $900,000, and the owner eventually accepted the original $1,000,000 offer. Students must determine if a contract existed on April 11th and April 22nd and explain their reasoning. The report must be formatted with proper Bluebook citations, double-spaced, and include a separate references page.
May 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 320 7380 Project 2 W8
This project involves conducting comprehensive research and drafting a memorandum to evaluate and make recommendations regarding the admissibility of physical and testimonial evidence in a criminal case. The case centers on Kim Johnson, who is suspected of using his rowhome for heroin distribution. The assignment requires identifying each piece of evidence collected during a police raid and analyzing its admissibility at trial based on legal principles and rules. The evidence includes various items such as firearms, cash, drugs, and statements made by involved parties. The goal is to support the evaluation with thorough legal analysis and proper citation of relevant sources, ultimately producing a well-supported memorandum for submission.
May 2024 -
Research Projects
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LGST 495 6380 Learning Activity W2
The Week 2 Learning Activity focuses on researching and identifying the appropriate jurisdiction and venue for a lawsuit involving Robbie Robinson and Frankie’s Flowers, Inc., following an accident with a MiniCooper. Attorney Casey Collins has directed preliminary research to determine the proper jurisdiction for the passengers' case against both Robbie and Frankie’s Flowers, Inc., which is headquartered in Alexandria, VA. The memorandum must detail both personal and subject-matter jurisdiction and apply the relevant laws to the facts of the case. If additional information is necessary to determine jurisdiction, this should be clearly described. The memo should be well-organized with an introduction, body, and conclusion, double-spaced, in 12 pt. Arial or Times New Roman font, with 1” margins, and must include appropriate Bluebook citations for all legal sources, using regional reporters for case law citations without parallel citations.
May 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 315 7380 Week 8 Project 2
This project involves conducting research, drafting a legal memorandum, and making recommendations for a client’s child support case under Maryland law. The case centers on Joanna and Marc Taylor, who are divorcing after 12 years of marriage and have four children. Marc, who has never worked and has been financially supported by his family and in-laws due to religious studies, refuses to pay child support. The task is to determine if Marc can be deemed to have voluntarily impoverished himself and thus be required to pay child support. The memorandum should follow a specific format, including sections on the question presented, short answer, statement of facts, applicable law, discussion, and conclusion. Thorough proofreading and adherence to the provided rubric are necessary before submission by the deadline.
May 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 320 7380 Project 1 W6
This project requires a comprehensive legal analysis, starting with research and drafting a memorandum to evaluate and make recommendations for a client's case involving Wendell Wilson, who is charged with the destruction of property. The tasks involve assessing the admissibility of Wilson's statements to the police and evaluating evidence against Alfonso Gilbert, who faces firearms violations and disorderly conduct charges. The memorandum must determine the admissibility of evidence, analyze potential criminal offenses committed by the officers, and support conclusions with relevant legal rules, cases, and concepts, ensuring adherence to proper citation standards. This project aligns with course outcomes by enhancing skills in legal research, criminal litigation preparation, and substantive and procedural criminal law analysis.
April 2024 -
Research Projects
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LGST 320 7380 Learning Activity W4
In this activity, I am tasked with assisting Holland by analyzing the facts of Wanda's and Bernard's cases to determine whether there are viable defenses for either client. Wanda is charged with malicious destruction of property after defacing a sports car while under the influence of a date-rape drug unknowingly given to her by Toby. Bernard, the doorman at the 7-Seas Bar/Grill, is charged with first-degree assault after retaliating against Toby, who urinated on him, by pushing and repeatedly punching him, resulting in severe injuries. My task is to prepare a summary report analyzing whether there are logical defenses for Wanda and Bernard. The report should address the recommended defenses, the rationale behind them, and the likelihood of their success. The report should be structured with labeled sections, including a brief summary of the facts, responses to the key points, and references, following proper citation and formatting guidelines.
April 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 320 7380 Learning Activity W5
In this activity, I am tasked with assisting Holland by analyzing the facts of Garland Freehold's case to determine the applicable crimes and the admissibility of evidence. Garland Freehold, a farmer on the Maryland Eastern Shore, is suspected of running an international stolen car operation with his brother, Bruce. Acting on a tip, FBI agents obtained a warrant to search Garland’s barn for stolen cars but found bunk beds and bedding instead. As the agents were leaving, they encountered a group of people with no identification and later arrested Garland after he attempted to flee. My task is to prepare a memorandum addressing the potential crimes Garland could be charged with, the arguments for suppressing the evidence found, and the likelihood of his conviction. The memorandum should be structured with labeled sections, including a brief summary of the facts, responses to the key points, and references, following proper citation and formatting guidelines.
April 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 320 7380 Learning Activity W6
In this activity, I am tasked with assisting Holland by analyzing the search and confession issues in the case of Walter Brennon. Acting on a tip, FBI agents obtained a warrant to search the Brennons' 20-acre estate for weapons and illegal drugs. When the agents arrived and announced themselves, Walter attempted to flee towards the pool house but was quickly apprehended. During the arrest, Walter, without receiving a Miranda warning, admitted to having drugs in the pool house. My task is to prepare a memorandum analyzing whether the defense can successfully argue for the suppression of the drugs found and to evaluate the likelihood of Walter's conviction based on the facts. The memorandum should be structured with labeled sections, including a brief summary of the facts, responses to the key points, and references, following proper citation and formatting guidelines.
April 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 320 7380 Learning Activity W7
In this activity, I am tasked with assisting Holland by preparing a briefing paper for Anthony Blanton regarding his role in a criminal plea negotiation for his client, Walter Brennon. Walter's case involves search and seizure issues and a confession made without a Miranda warning. The prosecutor, Deborah Bell, is open to negotiating a plea rather than pursuing a full criminal trial. My task is to outline the respective roles of the prosecutor, defense attorney, defendant, and judge in the plea negotiation process, and to comment on the role of the victim if applicable. Additionally, I must identify any legal or professional restraints on the attorneys involved. The briefing memorandum should be structured with labeled sections, written in complete sentences, and formatted properly with Arial or Times Roman, size 12 font.
April 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 315 7380 Week 5 Project 1
This project involves researching, drafting a legal memorandum, and making recommendations regarding a client's annulment and breach of promise action under Maryland law. The case involves Alexandra Morris, who married her stepfather, Derrick Carlson, after her fiancé, Joseph Henry, canceled their wedding upon learning of her pregnancy. Alexandra now seeks to annul her marriage to Derrick and pursue a breach of promise action against Joseph. The memorandum should address the legality of Alexandra's marriage to Derrick, potential punishments for entering an illegal marriage based on affinity, and the viability of a breach of promise action against Joseph. The memorandum should follow a specific format, including sections on the questions presented, short answers, statement of facts, applicable law, discussion, and conclusion. Thorough proofreading and adherence to the provided rubric are necessary before submission by the deadline.
April 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 315 7380 Learning Activity W7
This learning activity involves calculating child support payments under Maryland's Child Support Guidelines for Dima and Martha Jones, who are divorcing and have three children. Dima, who has a gross income of $96,000/year, pays $500/month for child support for his daughter Julia from a previous relationship. Martha has a gross income of $60,000/year and covers health insurance for the children, costing $300/month. Dima pays daycare costs of $300/week for Danae and $450/week for Grace, along with $200/month for Stuart's soccer expenses. The task requires reviewing Maryland's child support guidelines and calculating the monthly support Dima will owe for Stuart, Danae, and Grace. The completed calculations and calculation worksheet will be used by Carter in the next meeting with Dima. The submission must include detailed calculations or a saved PDF from the Maryland Child Support Calculator.
April 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 315 7380 Learning Activity W6
This learning activity involves evaluating questions related to the custody and divorce case of David and Marla Green, who recently moved to Maryland from Ohio. David, an accountant, works full-time from home, while Marla, with some college credits in Early Childhood Education, stays home to care for their infant child, Callie. After a temporary separation, the couple returned to Maryland but decided to divorce, agreeing on joint legal custody but disagreeing on physical custody—Marla wants sole physical custody while David seeks joint physical custody. The task is to prepare a memorandum addressing whether a Maryland court has subject matter jurisdiction to decide custody, identifying best interest factors supporting an award of sole physical custody to Marla, and determining if the parties can still obtain a divorce on the grounds of mutual consent if they can't agree on a custody arrangement. The memo must be thorough, supported by relevant Maryland statutory provisions, and formatted in size 12 Arial or Times Roman font.
April 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 315 7380 Learning Activity W4
This learning activity involves preparing answers to questions about a court opinion for a professional development seminar. The opinion, cited as 2006 ME 30, should be retrieved from Westlaw and reviewed. The task includes citing the opinion in Bluebook format, identifying the Petitioner in the case, explaining the trial court's personal jurisdiction over the Petitioner, explaining why the trial court lacked personal jurisdiction over the Respondent, and discussing why the court could dissolve the marriage but not distribute marital property. Each response should be between three and eight sentences long, written in your own words, and supported by relevant authorities with proper quotations and attributions
April 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 320 7380 Learning Activity W1
In this activity, I am tasked with assisting Holland, an attorney, by conducting an initial assessment of a new client, Roger. Roger is involved in an incident where he picked up tools in a parking lot of a home improvement store that had been previously thrown over a fence by another individual who was caught for shoplifting. Upon reviewing the store's video footage, the police and a store manager confronted Roger at his home. My task is to interview Roger, analyze the facts of the case, and write a summary report to Holland. The report should identify potential crimes Roger could be charged with, the prosecution’s likely arguments, and an analysis of whether Roger is likely to be convicted or acquitted. The report should be structured professionally with labeled sections, including a brief summary of the facts, responses to the key points, and references, adhering to proper citation and formatting guidelines.
March 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 320 7380 Learning Activity W2
In this activity, I am tasked with assisting Holland by reviewing the facts of Bob's case to determine whether he committed any inchoate crimes. Bob faces prosecution after an incident involving attempts to persuade his friend Dave to purchase crystal methamphetamine, and later suggesting they steal DVDs from Wal-Mart. While Dave declined to buy the drugs and hesitated about stealing due to being on probation, he accompanied Bob to Wal-Mart. At the store, Bob discreetly conducted a street purchase of meth and attempted to steal DVDs, leading to his arrest after being observed by the store manager. My task is to prepare a written report analyzing the potential inchoate crimes Bob may have committed, describing their elements, and evaluating the prosecution's likely arguments. The report should also conclude whether Bob is likely to be convicted based on the given facts. The report should be structured with labeled sections, including a brief summary of the facts, responses to the key points, and references, following proper citation and formatting guidelines.
March 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 320 7380 Learning Activity W3
In this activity, I am tasked with assisting Holland by reviewing the facts of Kelly's case to determine whether her conduct constitutes embezzlement. Kelly, the team captain for Chesapeake City United soccer team, was responsible for collecting monthly dues from team members and managing the team's bank account. In September, Kelly used $600 from the team's account to pay her personal credit card bill, intending to repay it within two weeks, but she forgot. Three months later, the team manager discovered the discrepancy, and Kelly admitted to taking the money. My task is to prepare an analysis and report addressing whether Kelly's actions constitute embezzlement under Maryland law, the likelihood of her conviction, and to research and cite a relevant case that supports the conclusion. The report should be structured with labeled sections, including a brief summary of the facts, responses to the key points, and references, following proper citation and formatting guidelines. Additionally, I need to prepare a 3-5 minute oral report summarizing the written report for Holland.
March 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 315 7380 Learning Activity W3
This learning activity involves assisting Cleo Edwards in obtaining a protective order against her live-in partner, John Carpenter, due to ongoing domestic abuse. The task includes using Westlaw to find and cite the statutory provision in West's Annotated Code of Maryland that authorizes filing a Petition for Relief from Abuse, describing the required contents of the petition in your own words, and identifying the types of relief Cleo qualifies for in a Temporary Protective Order (TPO). The explanations should be based on the facts of Cleo's case, supported by relevant statutory provisions cited in Bluebook format.
March 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 315 7380 Learning Activity W2
This learning activity involves determining if a 15-year-old couple living in Columbia, Maryland, can obtain a civil marriage license without their families' knowledge, considering the young woman is pregnant. The task requires using Westlaw to conduct research on Maryland marriage laws and apply the IRAC (Issue, Rule, Application, Conclusion) method to organize the response. The analysis should clearly state and answer the legal question, identify the relevant legal rule and cite it in Bluebook format, describe the rule in plain English, and apply the rule to the couple's situation to predict the outcome.
March 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 315 7380 Learning Activity W1
This learning activity involves researching whether Maryland will recognize and enforce a civil protective order obtained in a different state by a client who recently moved to Maryland. The task includes drafting a research plan and citing relevant authorities found during the research process. The plan should outline the steps for discovering mandatory authority and identify sources to be used at each research stage. After the plan is approved, the research findings must include citations in Bluebook format for a federal law, a Maryland statute, and a case
March 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 301 6380 Week 8 Project 3
The project for LGST 301 6380 Advanced Legal Writing involves drafting a Memorandum of Law in support of a Motion to Dismiss for a client, Emily Folly, whose case was not resolved after a Demand Letter was issued. The landlord, Sherman Helmsley, has sued Emily Folly for repossession of an apartment, claiming breach of lease or absence of a lease agreement under Md. Code Ann., Real Prop. § 8-402.1. The student's task is to analyze legal resources provided in the course to advocate for the dismissal of the repossession action under Md. Rule 3-311. The memorandum should include a thorough explanation of the law and relevant case support, following a specific format outlined in the project instructions. This project is designed to test the student's ability to draft legal documents that analyze issues, advocate for a client's objective, and present arguments persuasively while adhering to proper legal citation and writing standards.
February 2024 -
Research Projects
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LGST 301 6380 Week 6 Project 2
This project is designed for students to apply their analytical and writing skills by developing a Demand Letter in a legal context. It involves a scenario where Attorney Ivy and a team of paralegals are addressing a case for their client, Emily Folly, against her landlord, Sherman Helmsley, who threatens legal action for apartment repossession in Maryland. The task requires drafting a letter to advocate for Emily Folly, asserting her rights as a valid lease assignee from Jack Lemmonaid and disputing any lease breaches due to commercial use. This assignment emphasizes legal research, factual accuracy, persuasive advocacy, and adherence to specified legal and formatting guidelines. Students are expected to craft a thorough and compelling letter using only provided legal resources, demonstrating understanding of legal drafting techniques, and ensuring correctness in language and structure. The project aims to refine legal writing abilities, with a focus on advocating for a client's objective while meeting specified educational outcomes and grading criteria.
February 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 301 6380 Week 7 Learning Activity
This learning activity is designed to enhance students' legal writing and advocacy skills through the revision of a Complex Office Memo into a more persuasive document. The task involves three main parts: firstly, recapping the original legal issue statements from a previously reviewed Complex Office Memo; secondly, reformulating these statements into persuasive questions for an advocacy memo; and finally, crafting compelling opening sentences for each argument based on these questions. The assignment encourages critical thinking and refinement of legal arguments, requiring students to incorporate feedback, support their conclusions with relevant materials, and adhere to specific formatting guidelines. This exercise not only prepares students for drafting effective legal documents in real-world scenarios but also emphasizes the importance of persuasive communication in legal practice.
February 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 301 6380 Week 5 Learning Activity
This learning activity involves the preparation of a specific section of a Demand Letter related to the "Folly case," focusing on the legal basis for the demand. The student is tasked with thoroughly reviewing both the factual background and legal precedents pertinent to Folly's situation, as provided in the course materials. The assignment requires a detailed analysis of relevant cases and statutes that support Folly’s claim for relief or damages, distinguishing this analysis from the factual narrative that will form another part of the final Demand Letter. This section should not only highlight the laws and legal precedents that bolster Folly's position but also integrate key facts that illustrate the application of these legal principles to Folly's case. The deliverable should be concise, approximately two paragraphs in length, clearly labeled, and written in a structured paragraph format using standard font and size. This preparatory work will be submitted for review, after which it will be discussed and potentially revised based on feedback, ensuring a solid legal foundation for the Demand Letter.
February 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 312 6380 Week 5 Project 1
The project for Week Five in LGST 312, titled "Application of Last Clear Chance Doctrine," involves crafting a comprehensive legal memorandum. This assignment requires students to delve into a real-world scenario where Ms. Smith, represented by Partner Washington, has been involved in an automobile accident and is facing a contributory negligence defense from the defendant, Mr. Klink. To counter this defense, students are tasked with examining the case of Wooldridge v. Price, focusing on identifying and analyzing an exception to the contributory negligence doctrine. The memorandum must meticulously apply the Last Clear Chance Doctrine, demonstrating how this legal principle could potentially negate the contributory negligence claim against Ms. Smith. Students are expected to conduct an in-depth examination of the relevant legal standards, articulate the facts of the case, identify the legal issues at hand, and apply the rule of law to Ms. Smith's situation. The final product should conclude with a succinct summary of the findings, directly addressing the legal questions posed. This exercise not only tests students' ability to apply legal doctrines to specific facts but also enhances their legal writing and analytical skills.
February 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 312 6380 Week 6 Learning Activity
This project involves analyzing a strict liability tort claim, particularly focusing on products liability, as presented in the context of a potential lawsuit by a client named Bobby Battle. Battle was severely burned when hot tea spilled on him after purchasing it from a drive-through. The task requires reviewing the district court decision in Liebeck v. McDonald's Restaurant, 1995 WL 360309, to understand the tort type alleged in Battle's case, the elements of that tort, the legal reasoning and standard used by the court, and identifying policy reasons for establishing such torts. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of strict liability in product liability cases, emphasizing legal standards, reasoning, and policy implications. Through this, the project seeks to equip one with the knowledge necessary to support strict liability/product liability cases effectively.
February 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 312 6380 Week 7 Project 2
This project involves creating a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation that outlines the essentials of a products liability claim under the theory of strict liability, alongside elaborating on three potential defenses against such claims. You are tasked to dissect the components necessary to establish a products liability case, including identification of the five elements required to support a claim, and provide a narrative example for each to ensure a deeper understanding. Additionally, the presentation must detail three distinct defenses to a strict liability/products liability claim, explaining the factors necessary to leverage these defenses effectively, accompanied by examples. Furthermore, you are to identify a judicial case that involves at least one of the defenses discussed, including a citation per the Bluebook and a brief discussion on the legal standards applied by the court. This presentation aims to educate on both the plaintiff's burden in proving strict liability in products liability cases and the potential defenses available to defendants, culminating in a detailed speaker's notes section that serves as a narrative for each slide, ensuring the audience, represented by the client, gains a full understanding of the intricate dynamics at play in such legal matters.
February 2024 -
Research Projects
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LGST 301 6380 Week 3 Project 1
The project entails drafting a Complex Office Memo for a legal case where Emily Folly seeks to prevent Sherman Helmsley from repossessing her apartment. The memo is part of a representation by the Ivy firm, aimed at showcasing your ability to analyze legal issues and articulate the analysis in a structured legal memorandum format. The assignment involves reviewing case facts, legal research resources, and guidance on drafting a law office memorandum. The memo must address whether Helmsley's acceptance of rent from Folly acknowledges an assignment of the lease agreement and if Folly's commercial activities violate the lease terms. The document should include sections for facts, issue statements, short answers, analysis, counter-arguments, rebuttals, and conclusions for each issue, integrating case law reasoning and applying the law to support conclusions. The task requires critical thinking, thorough legal analysis from multiple perspectives, accurate citation in regional format, and adherence to high standards of grammar and organization. This assignment is designed to evaluate your legal writing, analytical skills, and insight into legal argumentation, contributing significantly to your course outcomes.
January 2024 -
Research Projects
LGST 301 6380 Week 4 Learning Activity
This learning activity involves the creation of a persuasive section of a Demand Letter for a legal case referred to as the "Folly case." The task is part of a learning activity designed to develop skills in legal writing and advocacy. The objective is to present the facts of the case in a compelling manner, highlighting the legal significance of each fact while integrating necessary background information for context. This exercise emphasizes the importance of advocacy in legal communication, contrasting with the objective tone typically employed in documents like the Complex Office Memo. The submission must adhere to specified formatting guidelines and be concise, limited to no more than three paragraphs. This draft will serve as a preliminary version of the Demand Letter's persuasive facts section, which will undergo review and discussion with a mentor named Ivy before any final revisions are made. The project underlines the importance of supporting arguments with references to course materials, cases, or statutes, and adheres to the grading rubric for Learning Activities.
January 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 301 6380 Week 2 Learning Activity
This learning activity involves a comprehensive legal analysis regarding the lease agreement issues between Emily Folly and Sherman Helmsley, focusing specifically on two key questions. Initially, the task requires a detailed review and synthesis of relevant case law and statutes identified by Attorney Ivy and the paralegal team, emphasizing the application of these legal principles to Folly's situation. The first question examines whether Helmsley's acceptance of rent from Folly acknowledges her as a party to the lease originally held by Lemmonaid, thereby binding her to its terms. The second question delves into whether Folly's actions of baking and selling pies from the apartment could be considered a commercial use of the premises, violating the lease's stipulation for private residence use and potentially justifying Helmsley's repossession of the property. The analysis must be grounded in the synthesized legal framework, drawing on the reasoning and standards applied by courts in similar disputes. Proper citation in Bluebook format is essential to support the analysis, and the response should be well-structured, clearly articulated, and presented in a professional format as per the instructions provided.
January 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 301 6380 Week 1 Learning Activity
This learning activity requires a detailed examination and explanation of the case Grubb v. Guilford Assoc., Inc., 228 Md. 135 (1962), aimed at supporting Attorney Ivy in a landlord-tenant legal matter. To effectively contribute to Ivy & Associates' efforts on behalf of their client, Emily Folly, participants must first thoroughly understand the background and context of the case by reviewing relevant course materials and major projects information. The task involves crafting a comprehensive analysis that includes the case's holding, rationale, and legally significant facts, presented in clear, coherent paragraphs. This exercise demands careful reading of the specified case, along with a structured presentation of findings in a formal, academic tone, using specified font and size for submission. Although the underlying case brief prepared during this analysis will not be submitted, it serves as an essential foundation for the explanation to be reviewed by Attorney Ivy, ensuring all conclusions are well-supported by relevant legal precedents and case law.
January 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 312 6380 Week 1 Learning Activity
This learning activity entails drafting a comprehensive memorandum of law aimed at refreshing Partner Lucy Lincoln's understanding of the procedures involved in litigating a tort cause of action in Maryland, following her years of practice abroad. The memorandum must succinctly outline the structured process of a tort case in Maryland, detailing the roles and functions of the parties involved, the legal basis for a tort cause of action including the possibility of alleging multiple causes in the initial complaint, and specific requirements for the complaint's content. Additionally, it should elucidate the burden of proof standard in tort cases, contrasting it with that in criminal proceedings, and discuss other procedural aspects such as responses and affirmative defenses. It must also highlight at least one statutory deadline critical to the case's outset. The format for this submission is a double-spaced legal memorandum in Arial or Times New Roman 12-point font, without a page limit, including a title page with personal and course details. The memorandum should incorporate citations to relevant course materials, cases, and statutes to substantiate conclusions, adhering closely to the grading rubric to achieve the highest possible grades.
January 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 312 6380 Week 2 Learning Activity
This project involves a comprehensive learning activity focused on the legal concept of intentional infliction of emotional distress within the context of a specific case, Jones v. Harris. The task is divided into two main parts: drafting a legal memorandum and creating a video presentation. Participants are required to engage with assigned materials, including the case of Jones v. Harris and a relevant article from the University of Baltimore Law Forum. The legal memorandum must detail the legal elements necessary for a claim of intentional infliction of emotional distress in Maryland, identifying at least four specific elements, supported by case law and statutes. The video presentation should provide a concise summary of the claim's basis, avoiding reading directly from the memorandum, and should last 2-3 minutes. Both the memorandum and the video are to be submitted for evaluation, adhering to specified formatting and submission guidelines. This project aims to deepen understanding of intentional tort causes of action and develop skills in legal analysis and presentation.
January 2024 -
Classwork
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LGST 312 6380 Week 3 Learning Activity
The project involves preparing a legal memorandum for Partner Lincoln regarding a defense to a trespass claim filed against Walter Waterloo in the state of Maryland. Walter Waterloo trespassed onto his neighbor Mr. Grumpy's property and caused damage while trying to rescue what he believed was a child in distress, but turned out to be a cat. The memorandum will follow the FIRAC (Facts, Issue, Rule of Law, Application/Analysis, Conclusion) format, focusing on identifying a potential defense against the tort of trespass based on the facts provided. It requires researching Maryland's statutory or case law relevant to trespass and potential defenses, such as necessity or emergency situations, to justify Waterloo's actions. The memorandum will analyze how these laws apply to Waterloo's situation, considering the urgency of the perceived danger to what he thought was a child. This analysis will involve evaluating the elements of the chosen defense, how it relates to the case facts, and discussing how damages might be addressed under this defense. The conclusion will summarize the findings and suggest how the defense could be presented in court. Proper citation of legal sources according to the Bluebook is also a key requirement for this project.
January 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 312 6380 Week 4 Learning Activity
This project involves the preparation of a detailed case brief for the landmark decision in Palsgraf v. Long Island Railroad Co., 248 N.Y. 339 (1928), focusing on the concept of negligence, specifically causation, within tort law. Participants are expected to thoroughly read and analyze the case, adhering to specific formatting guidelines including the use of the Bluebook citation method. The brief should encompass the case name and citation, facts and procedural history, the rule of law applied, a comprehensive analysis or reasoning by the court, the conclusion or disposition of the case, and summaries of any concurrences or dissents. Specifically, the analysis must delve into why the court determined the defendant's actions did not pose an unreasonable risk of harm to the plaintiff and why the plaintiff's injury was deemed unforeseeable. The project emphasizes clear, concise, and grammatically correct writing, supported by references to course materials, relevant cases, or statutes, and is structured to foster a deeper understanding of negligence in tort law through practical application.
January 2024 -
Classwork
LGST 204 7380 Final Project
This project entails a comprehensive examination and analysis of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct and the ABA Model Guidelines for Utilization of Paralegal Services, with a focus on their implications for paralegals' roles and responsibilities. Participants are expected to select specific Rules and Guidelines they find most relevant and significant to paralegals, providing detailed evaluations and examples of how paralegals might either contribute to violations or ensure compliance. The project is divided into three parts: the first part requires the selection and analysis of a Rule from the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct; the second and third parts involve choosing and evaluating Guidelines from the ABA Model Guidelines for Utilization of Paralegal Services. Each section mandates a thorough discussion on the importance of the chosen Rule or Guideline, potential violations by paralegals, and steps to avoid such breaches. The objective is to identify ethical problems, recommend proper conduct, and apply ethical rules to legal issues, thereby enhancing the participant's ability to synthesize information and communicate effectively in writing. The project demands detailed support from relevant materials, including the ABA Model Rule Comments, the Guidelines, commentary from paralegal associations, and other pertinent sources, ensuring in-depth analysis and well-supported conclusions.
November 2023 -
Research Projects
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LGST 204 7380 Week 4 Learning Activity
This project involves providing a detailed analysis and written recommendation concerning a potential conflict of interest involving a paralegal named Dean and an attorney named Luca, both employed at the State's Attorney's office in Philadelphia. They are tasked with assisting in an investigation against Legal Avenues, a public interest organization where they have volunteered, which is now under scrutiny for allegations related to financial misconduct. The analysis will examine the specific potential conflicts for Dean and Luca, what actions they should take in response, and how their roles as a paralegal and attorney respectively influence their responsibilities and decisions in this scenario. It will require a careful comparison of their positions, with emphasis on ethical obligations under the Model Rules of Professional Conduct, to determine the appropriate course of action for each individual. The project will also explore the broader question of whether paralegals and attorneys should have differing responsibilities in managing conflicts of interest and the rationale behind such distinctions, supported by relevant legal standards and ethical guidelines.
November 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 204 7380 Learning Activity Week 5
This project involves preparing an analysis for an educational scenario to be included in a future ABA newsletter, focusing on the ethical implications within a hypothetical situation. Maddy Tatman, a high-profile lawyer representing celebrity clients, and Janis Jefferson, a famous movie star, have co-founded a company to publish a tell-all book about Maddy’s former clients. They have promoted the book through talk show appearances, revealing sensitive information about these clients, and issued a press release naming the celebrities discussed in the book while advertising Maddy's legal services. The task requires an examination of the ethical boundaries between solicitation and advertising in the legal profession, assessing potential ethical violations through the lens of specific Model Rules concerning the talk show appearances, the content of the press release, and the advertisement of the book. The response must be detailed, referring to relevant legal ethical standards, and provide a thorough analysis of the scenario’s ethical dimensions, supporting conclusions with references to assigned course materials and using clear, complete sentences.
November 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 204 7380 Week 6 Learning Activity
The project entails researching how emerging technologies in the legal profession intersect with ethics and professional responsibility. This involves identifying current scholarly or professional articles that discuss specific technologies, such as AI, and their implications on legal ethics. The task requires summarizing these articles, analyzing potential ethical dilemmas these technologies may create, investigating existing Model Rules or Guidelines relevant to these technologies, and discussing their impact on the roles and responsibilities of legal professionals, including paralegals. The research should be detailed, using relevant legal frameworks and ethical considerations, and supported by authoritative sources, excluding non-scholarly websites or blogs.
November 2023 -
Classwork
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LGST 204 7380 Week 7 Learning Activity
This project involves an in-depth analysis of the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the legal profession, particularly focusing on the implications for professional responsibility and ethical conduct as outlined by the American Bar Association (ABA). The key areas of investigation include examining whether lawyers maintain the required level of competence under ABA Model Rule 1.1 when using AI to provide legal advice, understanding how AI systems influence a lawyer's responsibilities for non-lawyer assistance as specified in ABA Rule 5.3, and discussing the necessity of incorporating a new rule into the ABA Model Guidelines for Utilization of Paralegal Services to address the use of AI by paralegals. This analysis aims to highlight the ethical challenges posed by AI in legal practices and emphasizes the importance of developing specific guidelines to ensure that lawyers and their assistants use AI technologies in a manner that upholds the highest professional standards.
November 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 204 7380 Week 8 Learning Activity
This project involves researching and identifying emerging career opportunities for paralegals and legal assistants outside the traditional settings of law firms and legal organizations, such as roles within corporate HR departments. It requires an exploration of the benefits and potential ethical dilemmas associated with these new career paths. The task includes finding an article that discusses at least one new career option for paralegals and legal assistants, describing this new career option, and analyzing specific ethical issues that could arise within this role. This analysis should reference specific rules from the Model Rules of Professional Conduct and/or Model Guidelines for the Utilization of Legal Assistant Services. The project aims to prepare a comprehensive summary report detailing the findings, supported by in-depth reference to relevant course materials and framed in correct, complete sentences and paragraph format.
November 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 201 7381 Project 2
Project 2 – Case Law Analysis Memo is designed to enhance skills in analyzing legal issues and articulating that analysis through a legal memorandum. This project revolves around drafting a memo for Attorney Chong regarding client Mary Hastings' case, focusing on the analysis and explanation of relevant legal issues derived from specified case laws. The memo aims to apply these laws to the facts of Hastings' case, presenting reasoned conclusions. It requires thorough examination of three court opinions to evaluate the issue of whether Gilford Pines Condominium Association had notice of a hazardous condition and neglected reasonable care to rectify it. The memo must be structured following the IRAC format—Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion—and include comprehensive application of law to the facts of the case, ensuring a well-supported conclusion. This exercise not only aims at drafting an objective and well-organized memorandum but also at ensuring the memorandum is proofread, adheres to citation rules, and meets the outlined course outcomes through critical legal analysis.
November 2023 -
Research Projects
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LGST 201 7381 Project 3
Project 3 involves drafting a statutory analysis memo for Attorney Chong regarding the Hastings case, focusing on a specific legal issue and statute application. The project aims to enhance skills in analyzing case facts and statutory law, and articulating this analysis in a legal memorandum format. The scenario requires assuming altered facts for the Hastings incident, with specific dates for the incident and when legal advice was sought. The memo must follow the IRAC (Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion) format, addressing whether Mary Hastings is time-barred under Maryland law from pursuing a complaint against Gilford Pines Condominium Association, based on the Maryland statute of limitations. This exercise demands a comprehensive analysis and substantiation of conclusions, following a structured memorandum format.
November 2023 -
Research Projects
LGST 201 7381 Project 4
Project 4 entails drafting a client information letter for Attorney Chong, directed to client Mary Hastings, to explain the applicable law and its analysis concerning her slip and fall case, specifically regarding the likelihood of success in recovering compensation for injuries. This assignment aims to develop skills in creating clear, effective legal communications that accurately explain the law as it pertains to a client's objectives. The project requires a review of the Hastings case facts and relevant court opinions to assess the viability of a lawsuit against Gilford Pines Condominium Association. The letter must analyze relevant law, apply it to Hastings' case, consider precedents set by three specified cases, and evaluate the potential success of Hastings' pursuit for compensation, including lost wages and pain and suffering. The format for the client letter is provided for guidance, emphasizing clarity, effectiveness, and thorough legal analysis in communication.
November 2023 -
Research Projects
LGST 201 7381 Week 4 Learning Activity
This project involves practicing and mastering the skill of citing quoted text from court opinions according to Bluebook format. Participants are tasked with locating specific excerpts from court opinions and quoting them accurately, accompanied by pinpoint citations to the regional reporter. The project emphasizes the importance of correctly formatting citations, differentiating between direct quotes and block quotations, and utilizing short form citations where applicable. Instructions include a focus on adhering to specific formatting guidelines, such as font size and type, and the requirement to support conclusions with references to relevant legal materials. The activities aim to enhance participants' proficiency in legal writing and research, specifically in the context of citing legal authorities in a manner that is consistent with professional legal standards.
November 2023 -
Classwork
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LGST 201 7381 Week 5 Learning Activity
The project involves preparing responses to exercises on legal writing flaws for a professional development seminar organized by Chong for the City Bar Association. The exercises are based on court opinions that highlight various mistakes in legal writing, including amusing and serious errors, to emphasize the importance of careful writing in legal documents. Participants will use specific cases, such as Varda, Incorporated v. Insurance Company of North America and Bradshaw v. Unity Marine Corporation, Incorporated, to explore these flaws. The activity requires analyzing court opinions to understand and explain the reasons behind the courts' criticisms of legal writing, with instructions to support conclusions with references to legal materials, label responses accurately, and adhere to specific formatting guidelines.
November 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 201 7381 Week 6 Learning Activity
This project involves a comprehensive statutory analysis of a given fact scenario involving Jennifer Ender, who experienced unauthorized use of her personal information by a retail store in Annapolis, Maryland. The analysis requires a detailed examination of relevant sections from West's Annotated Code of Maryland, particularly focusing on the legality of the store's actions in writing down personal identification information not required by the credit card issuer, and the potential for Jennifer to sue for damages under the statutes concerning credit card transactions, unfair practices, and civil remedies. The task includes applying the statute to Jennifer's situation, identifying whether the store's practices constitute a violation, and determining if Jennifer has a cause of action for a lawsuit based on the unauthorized collection and use of her personal information, leading to unsolicited marketing and possibly contributing to identity theft. The analysis must be specific, avoid additional research, and cite statutory provisions accurately to support conclusions.
November 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 201 7381 Week 7 Learning Activity
This project involves preparing for the drafting of a client letter, focusing on understanding and applying legal principles relevant to a specific case. Participants are expected to engage with assigned materials, submit assignments correctly, and utilize course content to support their conclusions. The preparation exercise, designed by Chong, aims to ensure participants can effectively communicate legal analysis and predictions in a client letter, emphasizing the importance of adjusting writing styles based on the audience—highlighting differences between communicating with a client versus a lawyer. The project also requires a detailed examination of the most crucial elements of a client letter from the client's perspective, ensuring the communication is both informative and accessible.
November 2023 -
Classwork
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LGST 204 7380 Week 1 Learning Activity
This project requires a deep and thoughtful engagement with the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, specifically its Preamble and Scope sections. As part of preparing for a seminar aimed at paralegals and attorneys associated with the ABA, the task involves selecting two paragraphs from both the Preamble and the Scope that resonate most with you. The essence of this reflection is to delve into how the chosen paragraphs align with your personal values, experiences, and perceptions of society. The analysis should not only articulate why these paragraphs stand out but also connect them to broader themes or lessons from course materials, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the ethical framework guiding legal professionals. This reflective summary demands a detailed and insightful exploration of the ethical considerations and obligations encapsulated within the legal profession, emphasizing personal connection and relevance to professional conduct.
October 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 204 7380 Week 2 Learning Activity
The project involves preparing a comprehensive guide for legal professionals, particularly paralegals and legal assistants, on navigating the complex issue of the unauthorized practice of law (UPL) in the context of the District of Columbia. It requires compiling crucial information about the definition and scope of the practice of law and UPL, informed by the American Bar Association's recommendations and specific rules governing the District of Columbia. The materials to be prepared include a detailed explanation of what constitutes the practice of law, the potential repercussions of UPL, and the minimum qualifications, competence, and accountability standards required to lawfully engage in legal practice. Additionally, it involves reviewing and presenting examples of state bar association ethics rules related to UPL, highlighting the authority of these associations to license attorneys, enforce ethical rules, and sanction violations. The project aims to provide legal practitioners with the knowledge and tools to avoid engaging in UPL, thereby ensuring the integrity of legal practice and protecting the public from harm.
October 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 204 7380 Learning Activity Week 3
This project entails a comprehensive analysis of a confidentiality breach incident at a small law firm, involving a junior attorney, Jackson, and a paralegal, Jane. They are suspected of disclosing sensitive information about a high-profile criminal case, involving Client X, to a friend who works for the opposing side. The task involves evaluating Jane and Jackson's actions against the backdrop of the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Guidelines for Paralegals and ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct to determine if their behavior constitutes a breach of confidentiality. This analysis will specifically address whether Jane, in her capacity as a paralegal, and Jackson, as a junior attorney, acted improperly by sharing details of the case and their speculation about Client X's guilt with an outsider, potentially compromising the client's defense strategy and violating ethical guidelines. The outcome will provide a detailed examination of their conduct, supported by relevant legal and ethical standards, to assist Attorney Yeats in advising the law firm's partners on the matter.
October 2023 -
Classwork
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LGST 201 7381 Project 1
Project 1 entails drafting a Synthesis Memo for attorney Alice Chong concerning client Mary Hastings' case, focusing on slip and fall case law. The purpose is to develop the skill of synthesizing relevant case law into a cohesive legal analysis. The memo will address the common legal standards and approaches courts use in slip and fall cases, drawing from three specific court opinions. It includes an introduction providing a memo overview and explaining the legal topic; a synthesis of the rationales behind the laws applied in these cases; a detailed look at the individual holdings of each case, including significant facts and legal conclusions; and a synthesis of these holdings to illustrate a comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand. The memo requires proper citation in Bluebook format, clear organization, and thorough proofreading for accuracy and clarity.
October 2023 -
Research Projects
LGST 201 7381 Week 1 Learning Activity
This project involves a comprehensive learning activity designed to enhance legal research and case briefing skills, as part of a professional development seminar for paralegals led by Attorney Chong. Participants are tasked with retrieving a specific court opinion (Deering Woods Condominium Association, 377 Md. 250) from Westlaw, citing it according to the Bluebook format, and providing a parallel citation. Additionally, participants must read the case to understand its procedural history, the facts leading to the legal issue, the legal problem itself, the court's rationale for its decision, and the final holding. This exercise aims to solidify paralegals' abilities in citation and case analysis, crucial competencies in the legal profession, with the output intended to serve as educational material for a Learning Lunch seminar.
October 2023 -
Classwork
LGST 201 7381 Week 2 Learning Activity
The project involves drafting a Synthesis of the Rationales, a critical component of a Synthesis Memo, aimed at enhancing the preparation for the Hastings case. This task requires a comprehensive review of instructional materials and case law, including briefing specific Maryland cases: Deering Woods Condominium Association, Joseph, and Maans. The synthesis will focus on elucidating the legal standards for establishing a negligence claim in slip and fall incidents within Maryland, detailing the evidentiary requirements for plaintiffs to prove negligence, and outlining the potential defenses available to defendants (property owners). This exercise emphasizes the synthesis of case holdings, the analysis of judicial reasoning, and the application of legal principles to compile a coherent legal argument supporting the case preparation.
October 2023 -
Classwork
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LGST 201 7381 Week 3 Learning Activity
The project involves preparing for the creation of a Synthesis Memo as part of preliminary work requested by Chong. It requires a detailed examination and analysis of three specific legal cases: Deering Woods Condominium Association, Joseph, and Maans, which will form the basis for the memo. The participant is tasked with reviewing these cases thoroughly and then drafting a written plan that outlines the content to be included in the Synthesis Memo. This plan must address four key sections of the memo: the Introduction, the Synthesis of the Rationales, the Individual Holdings, and the Synthesis of the Holdings. Each section has distinct objectives and requirements for content, aimed at supporting conclusions with references to course materials, cases, or statutes. The final plan will be submitted for discussion before the actual memo is written, ensuring a comprehensive understanding and analysis of the cases in question.
October 2023 -
Classwork