PLAW-102: Legal Terminology

Master the essential vocabulary of law with this online course, covering terminology for civil, criminal, constitutional, contract, tort, property, family, and business law.

Course Description

PLAW-102: Legal Terminology introduces students to the specialized language used throughout the legal field, providing a foundation for precise communication in law offices, courts, and client interactions. Using Legal Terminology by Cathy Okrent, J.D., this course covers vocabulary across key areas such as civil and criminal procedure, constitutional law, contracts, torts, property, and family law.

Students will also explore terminology related to specialized fields including intellectual property, tax, wills and estates, commercial law, and labor law. Emphasis is placed on interpreting and applying terminology accurately in documents, statutes, and case law, while reinforcing the role of precise language in ethical and professional practice.

Designed for aspiring paralegals, legal assistants, and students pursuing law-related careers, this course equips learners with the vocabulary skills necessary for academic success and effective professional communication in legal environments.

Textbook: Legal Terminology, by Cathy Okrent, J.D. | 4th Edition | Copyright 2012

Course Objectives

Define and apply key legal terms across multiple areas of substantive and procedural law.

Interpret the language of legal documents, statutes, and case law with accuracy.

Distinguish between terminology specific to civil, criminal, and administrative proceedings.

Apply legal vocabulary in context to contracts, torts, property, family law, and corporate law.

Demonstrate effective use of legal terminology in written and oral communication.

Evaluate how precise terminology influences professional standards and ethical practice.

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Course Contents

Civil Litigation (Pretrial)

Civil Litigation (Trial and Appeal)

Criminal Law and Procedure

Constitutional Law

Administrative Law

Torts and Personal Injury

Contracts

Agency

Intellectual Property

Tax Law

Wills, Trusts, and Estates

Real Property and Landlord/Tenant

Family Law

Legal Ethics

Insurance Law

Commercial Law

Bankruptcy

Corporations, Partnerships, and Sole Proprietorships

Labor and Employment

Single Course or Program Option

This course may be purchased individually or as part of the certificate programs listed below.

Master Paralegal
Senior Paralegal
National Paralegal

Recommended Prerequisites

Accreditation You Can Trust

Washington Technical Institute is fully accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS)—a regional accrediting agency recognized for setting high standards in education. This accreditation affirms that our programs, operations, and outcomes meet rigorous academic and institutional benchmarks. MSA-CESS accreditation is a mark of quality that ensures our students receive an education that is both credible and respected. It also means WTI is committed to continuous improvement, student success, and accountability at every level.