Legal Studies
4 courses · Palomar College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
LS 121 Introduction to Law
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- LPPS 110
This course provides an overview of the American legal system including its development, structure and history. The course will review the legal and judicial process in the United States covering the common law system, jurisdiction of federal and state courts, and the general process of judicial review. Explanation of different sources of law including statutes, court cases and administrative agency rules. Review of basic legal reasoning and primary authority analysis. Introduction to trial procedure and substantive survey of laws including, but not limited to torts, contract law, criminal law, and property law. Also included is a review of the principles of legal ethics.
LS 145 Legal Ethics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
- C-ID
- LPPS 120
This course provides an introduction to concepts and theories of ethical decision-making, moral conduct, obligation and permission, justice, and responsibility, within the legal profession. Focuses on standards required by the American Bar Association and other professional associations involving legal professionals working in the field of law.
LS 240 Civil Liberties and Procedures
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
The study of the Bill of Rights and Supreme Court decisions focusing on civil rights and liberties. This area of constitutional law examines the relationship between individuals and government. Emphasis is on minority issues such as privacy, personal freedom, political equality, and first amendment jurisprudence.
LS 290 Contemporary Legal Issues
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
The seminar will provide an opportunity for in-depth discussion of competing theories of legal interpretation and analysis of the legislative and judicial processes. Each seminar will examine current "hot topics" in more depth. For example, voting rights, partisan gerrymandering, campaign finance, immigration, data privacy, custody and conservatorships, drug policy, and juvenile justice reform may be studied. You will research a developing legal issue and complete a written research paper highlighting the major issues involved, your analysis, and your recommendations.