Discovery

Discovery

Courses Tabs

Overview
CLE Hours: 
CLE Credit: 
Course Level: 
Advanced
Prerequisite: 
General knowledge of document management techniques. Familiar with formal discovery methods. Broad knowledge of Federal Rules, as well as the process of civil and criminal litigation.
Fees: 
$250 for Members and $300 for Nonmembers
Course Materials: 
Self-study courses typically come with a PDF of the complete textbook, a PDF of the textbook by chapter and a glossary of terms. Once you’ve finished studying, you’ll take the corresponding exams to earn CLE.

Discovery is the investigative stage of a case that is conducted prior to the trial. It provides parties with opportunities to verify their understanding of the facts of the case, to find out what witnesses know about the dispute, and to explore the other side’s legal theories. Well-conducted discovery allows parties to clarify the issues for trial, anticipate the opponent’s strategies, and accurately evaluate the likelihood of success at trial.

Paralegals have significant responsibility for discovery. Paralegals working in this area should be able to:

  • Draft discovery requests and responses
  • Gather and organize documents and materials
  • Analyze documents and evidence
  • Find, meet with, and interview witnesses
  • Locate experts

Paralegals must also have an understanding and working knowledge of the rules of civil procedure, criminal procedure, and evidence as they relate to discovery.

Course Year: 
2017