LS/PLS 290
Contemporary Legal Issues

408 - Access to Justice: Court/Community Outreach
This Program is a discussion concerning the Court and Community Collaboration Initiative. The Chief Justice of California, Ronald M. George, begins this important dialogue from his chambers at the California Supreme Court. In the studio, the Panel discussion includes the stated goals and the scope of the Court/Community Outreach: How does this collaboration address access to justice issues; What is the role contemplated for the court; How can the community dialogue with the court?

304 - The Dynamics of Para Legalism - The Future
The American Bar Association first recognized the Paralegal profession in 1968, and since then the discussion has continued as to the acceptable standards that should be required of the well-trained Paralegal. At the present time, in regards to licensing and certification, Paralegals are not required to be licensed and certification is voluntary. The Panel notes the importance of validating the education of the individual, as well as the various bills introduced in the Legislature to license Paralegals in the future. The educational expectations as well as the role of the Paralegal will expand in the future.

203 - Ethics
A frank discussion concerning the unethical conduct of members of the legal profession; the lack of professionalism on the job; the lack of civility in the profession. The Panel discussions and defines the "Inns of the court" as a means to educate and bring together judges and attorneys in a "Mentoring" program. The primary goal of the "Inn" is to show what is acceptable practice and what is not, to teach the lawyers to be professional in their craft, and bring up the level of civility and decorum in the courtroom.

303 - Domestic Violence
This program is a discussion of domestic violence. Understanding the physical, emotional and verbal abuse that takes place as an issue of control, is paramount in breaking the cycle. The reasons victims don't leave a perilous situation are discussed as well as the history of domestic violence in this country. Current local cases are mentioned as examples of victims securing restraining orders. The program offers a local domestic violence help hotline number to the viewers at the close of the show. The current information is helpful in understanding and preventing the damaging cycle of domestic violence.

206 - Elder Law
This program is a timely discussion of the abuse many of our senior citizens experience. This abuse stems from how we view and value our elders. Seniors tend to be stereotyped and treated with disrespect. At this time not enough is being done to protect this growing segment of the population. Although there are laws to protect seniors against abuse, prosecution at times is elusive. The program discusses several common mistakes seniors can avoid making in order to protect themselves from scams and fraud. The program offers a toll free number to report elder abuse.

308 - Mediation: The Art of Facilitating Resolution
This program is an informative discussion concerning mediation, which has become an effective tool in the resolution of disputes. The Panel members discuss the history of mediation as well as the mediation process. Mr. Edwards explains the concept of J.A.M.S/Endispute; He has mediated approximately 3,00 disputes, involving a wide variety of legal issues. Judge Lester describes his work as an arbitrator and mediator in private practice.

305 - Workplace Violence
This program is a timely and interesting discussion of the background of workplace violence as well as the employer's duty of care (safe work environment) under the common law. Counsel discusses the legal consequences of negligent hiring and negligent retention, as well as the steps an employer should take to protect against liability. Landmark cases are discussed such as Avis Rent-A-Car (1979) and Tarasoff V. Regent of University of California.

401 - Alternative Dispute Resolution - The Summary Jury Trial
A discussion of the history and background of the Summary Jury Trial, as well as the Panels experience with this alternative method of resolving disputes. Counsel discusses the components for screening cases, selection of jurors and the settlements involved. The advantage and disadvantages of the Summary Jury Trial are compared with the traditional methods practiced in a court of law.

402 - Environmental Law - Are We Wasting our Most Precious Assets?
Discussion of the history and background of Environmental Law; the scope and application of the regulatory environment. Counsel discusses an overview of the practice of Environmental Law. The program includes a lively and informative discussion of the new ballpark downtown as well as the future of North County in regards to population and congestion.

403 - Criminal Justice - District Attorney - Paul Pfingst
Discussion of the law as it pertains to the justifiable use of deadly force and application to peace officers. The District Attorney describes the chronology of events leading to the Dubose shooting and the factors that lead to the decision to release the results of the Dubose investigation over the internet. Interesting and timely discussion concerning an issue that has caused community debate.

404 - Access to Justice - Legal Aid
This program is an informative discussion concerning legal aid, the types of services provided; who is eligible for these services, as well as the procedures involved to receive legal aid. The Panel discusses the new Consumer Center for Health Education and Advocacy and its relationship with legal aid. This is a noteworthy program for the citizens of San Diego. Contact numbers for the Legal Aid Society and The Consumer Center for Health Education and Advocacy are noted during the program.

405 - Criminal Justice: A Case of Life and Death
This program is a discussion concerning the controversial issue; the imposing of the Death Penalty. The Panel discusses, specifically the Michael Wauneka Case. Greg Moran's article "A Case of Life or Death" details the events of this capital crime. Judge Maino outlines the trial process for a death penalty case, and the Panel discusses why the case in question was appealed. Although a local case, the issue of imposing the death penalty is controversial and certainly not limited to local interest.

406 - orporate Law: The Corporate Round Table
This program outlines the role of general counsel and the organization involved in a contemporary corporate law operation. The Panel discusses the role of the support staff as well as how the Paralegal is utilized in the corporate world. The program addresses the emerging trends in corporate law and the industry.

407 - Employment Law: Privacy in the Workplace
This hour long pilot program, begins with a lively and informative discussion concerning the issue of privacy in the workplace. The second half hour is dedicated to a live call in format where the viewing public can call in with their concerns and questions regarding this current complex issue. The program begins with a brief history and background of the law in this area. The Panel discusses the employee's rights to privacy as well as the "expectation of privacy." Employer issues: such as how to keep trade secrets, confidentiality issues, and employee performance records private are discussed. The issue of new technology and privacy adds yet another dimension to employment law. Who has the right to access your E-Mail, computer and voice mail? This program is very informative and current; the live calls add perspective to the dialogue.