PLG 274 Torts

Course Number and Title: PLG 274 Torts

Print Syllabus
Campus Location:
Georgetown, Dover
Effective Date:
2022-51
Prerequisite:
None
Co-Requisites:

none

Course Credits and Hours:
3.00 credits
3.00 lecture hours/week
0.00 lab hours/week
Course Description:

The course includes the substantive law of torts and insurance, in addition to case investigations.

Required Text(s):

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Additional Materials:

None

Schedule Type:
Classroom Course
Disclaimer:

None

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs):
  1. Use basic legal terminology in written and oral communications. (CCC 1; PGC 1)
  2. Plan and complete a client interview. (CCC 1, 5; PGC 5)
  3. Discuss basic tort law. (CCC 1, 5; PGC 4 5)
  4. Identify the elements required to establish negligence. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 4, 5)
  5. Apply theories of strict liability and product liability. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 4, 5)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs):

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Use basic legal terminology in written and oral communications.
    1. Define basic terms associated with trial procedures.
    2. Use terminology associated with intentional and unintentional torts.
    3. Identify legal terminology used in personal injury issues.
    4. Use legal terminology associated with insurance. 
  2. Plan and complete a client interview.
    1. List obstacles to communication and methods of overcoming them.
    2. Identify types of information essential to a legal interview.
    3. Prepare questions to use in a client interview.
    4. Interview a client to obtain legal information to be used in civil procedures.
    5. Assess the impact of a client or witness upon a jury.
  3. Discuss basic tort law.
    1. Distinguish between a private and a public wrongdoing.
    2. Give examples of intentional torts.
    3. Identify defenses to intentional torts.
    4. Discuss remedies for torts.
  4. Identify the elements required to establish negligence.
    1. Define negligence.
    2. Identify defenses to negligence.
    3. Explain the concept of assumption of risk.
    4. Discuss the concept of duty of care.
    5. Explain proximate cause.
    6. Compare and contrast contributory and comparative negligence.
  5. Apply theories of strict liability and product liability.
    1. Differentiate product liability from ordinary negligence.
    2. Give examples where strict liability is applied.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies:

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90 – 100 = A
80 – 89 = B
70 – 79 = C
0 – 69 = F

Students should refer to the Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade:

Calculated using the following weighted average

Evaluation Measure

Percentage of final grade

Summative: Tests (3) (equally weighted)

30%

Summative: Final Exam

25%

Summative: Writing Assignment1 (Legal Memo)

 

20%

Summative: Writing Assignment 2 (Interview)

15%

Formative: Homework/Participation

10%

TOTAL

100%
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop):
  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major):

PLGAASPLG

  1. Explain the present and potential role of the paralegal within the legal system.
  2. Produce documents necessary for a functioning law office.
  3. Comply with the profession’s Code of Ethics within the legal system.
  4. Use a range of research methods and information necessary to complete a variety of legal activities.
  5. Apply acquired knowledge of legal specialty areas in the workplace.
Disabilities Support Statement:

The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. A listing of campus Disabilities Support Counselors and contact information can be found at the disabilities services web page or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements:
Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.