February 2008: In response to popular demand, Blackstone has introduced a course in Criminal Law. One of Blackstone’s eight Advanced Paralegal Courses, Criminal Law is designed for practicing paralegals who want to specialize in this field, as well as individuals who are interested in learning more about this important facet of our legal system.

“We carefully consider all of the feedback Blackstone graduates submit in our survey sent shortly after course completion.  Criminal law was identified as the field students were most interested in learning more about,” explains Kevin McCloskey, president of Direct Learning Systems, Blackstone's parent company. “We listen to what our students have to say and plan to continue to introduce new courses and programs based on their suggestions.”

The new Criminal Law course discusses the criminal justice system and its components, including the specific elements of crime, and focuses on the paralegal’s role in trial preparations and procedures. Students are challenged to apply their legal reasoning skills to realistic case scenarios, analysis problems and other exercises. Ethical concerns and performance standards are also emphasized throughout the course.

As with all of BCI’s advanced courses, students receive a commercial textbook and specially prepared Blackstone study guide with six lessons and exams, which can be submitted through the exclusive Online Student Center. And Advanced Paralegal Courses qualify as continuing legal education credit for Certified Legal Assistants (CLAs) and are also approved by NALS. . .the association for legal professionals.