PARLGL-104 - Contract Law - Christine V. Oshian, J.D.

Introduction

Dear Students,

Welcome to Contract Law! I am Professor Christine Oshian, and I am glad to have you in this course. Whether it is reviewing agreements, preparing documents, or helping attorneys resolve disputes, contracts are a major part of everyday legal work. A solid understanding of contract law will be a valuable asset in your future career. 

In this course, we will cover the key elements of a valid contract: offer, acceptance, consideration, and more. We will also examine what happens when things go wrong, such as breaches and remedies. You will learn how to analyze contracts, recognize legal issues, and assist attorneys in drafting and reviewing agreements with accuracy and confidence. We will focus on practical skills as well as core legal concepts, and we will work through examples that reflect the kinds of tasks and challenges paralegals face in real-world settings. 

Since this class is online and designed for adult learners, I understand that flexibility, clarity, and support are especially important. I aim to create a learning environment that respects your time, builds your confidence, and helps you apply what you learn in meaningful ways. Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns, and let me know how I can support you throughout this course. Looking forward to a great semester together!

Course Description

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of contract law within the U.S. legal system, with an emphasis on the practical skills and knowledge required of paralegals. The course explores contract formation, enforceability, interpretation, performance, breach, and remedies. Students will also examine relevant provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and the role of a paralegal in contract-related legal work.

Delivered in an Online-LIVE hybrid format, the course combines scheduled, interactive virtual class sessions with flexible, self-paced online learning. Students will engage with real-world case studies, analyze contract language, and develop skills in legal research, document review, and contract drafting. Emphasis is placed on preparing students to assist attorneys in both transactional and litigation settings.

What to Expect in this Course

Weekly workload: The recommendation is to log in to Canvas on a regular basis, click on the Modules tab and then navigate to the week that we are studying. This will keep you focused and on task with deadlines, announcements, assignments, discussion boards, collaborations, quizzes, and exams. This course meets 2 hours a week for lecture and requires a substantial amount of time in preparing and completing assignment on your own outside of class. Schedule your time accordingly.

Technology Requirements: Reliable internet access, Canvas learning management system access, and the ability to participate in scheduled Zoom virtual class meetings via webcam and microphone.

Types of Assessments

In this class, students will be expected to complete weekly quizzes, assignments, discussion boards through Canvas. Students will be expected to regularly attend weekly Zoom virtual class meetings and participate in in-class activities. A midterm exam will be given halfway through the course, and a final exam will be given at the end of the course.

Textbook Information

Title: Basic Contract Law for Paralegals, 11th Edition
Author: Jeffrey A. Helewitz
ISBN:  9798892073523 (paperback)
ISBN:  9798892073530 (digital e-book)

Other Relevant Course Information

Recommended prerequisite: completion of PARLGL-101 Introduction to Law is recommended as foundational preparation before taking this course. 

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 07/20/2025 Sub#: 1949 Sub ID: 198762