PRL 280 - Legal Internship & Ethics

Credits: 4
Lecture Hours: 1
Lab Hours: 0
Practicum Hours: 0
Work Experience: 15
Course Type: Open

This course covers an application of the substantive and practical knowledge gained in the classroom by interning in a private law office, governmental agency or corporate environment under the supervision of a practicing attorney(s). Participation in workshops regarding internship experiences. 225 hours will be completed. An examination of the legal ethical and professional responsibility standards applicable to the legal profession will also be included. Creating a professional portfolio and assessment of knowledge gained in the program will be assessed on a pass/fail basis.
(This course is Pass/Fail.)
Prerequisite: PRL 102, PRL 103, PRL 104, PRL 112, PRL 113, PRL 135 and a minimum grade of “C” in all PRL courses and completed a minimum of seven PRL courses.
Competencies

Assess completion of 225 Hour Internship Working under the Supervision of an Attorney
1. Schedule Internship Working Hours
2. Integrate Substantive and Practical Knowledge Gained into Internship
3. Produce Required Internship Paperwork
4. Create a Self-Evaluation of Internship and Program Experience
Develop Positive Working Relationship with Supervising Attorney(s)
1. Demonstrate Positive Communication Skills
2. Modify Behavior to Meet Expectations
3. Produce Useful Work Product
4. Manage Time to Complete Work Product
Develop Professional Reputation in Internship
1. Support Co-Workers and Supervising Attorney(s)
2. Select appropriate workplace attire
3. Implement appropriate communication with clients
Examine the Ethical and Professional Responsibility Standards of the Legal Field
1. Compare the Model Code of Professional Responsibility and the Model Rules of Professional Conduct
2. Research Iowa Attorney Disciplinary Complaint Process
Analyze the Ethical and Professional Responsibility Standards of the Legal Field in Application to Paralegals
1. Discuss the American Bar Association’s Guidelines for the Utilization of Paralegals
2. Contrast Attorneys Ethical and Professional Responsibility Standards with Paralegals Compliance Requirements
Develop Professional Portfolio