LAW COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

LAW-2750 Jurisprudence: Law and Adjudication Associate Dean Patrick Shin, 3 credits day; 3 credits evening.

Perspectives course NOT OFFERED 2016-17

This course combines an introduction to basic topics in jurisprudence with practical writing projects that require students to think and write like a judge. Assigned readings will explore the concept of law, the possibility of objective legal analysis, and the appropriate role of unelected judges in a democratic society. Writing assignments will require students to draft mock “bench memos” and judicial opinions from varying theoretical perspectives. The course aims specifically to develop practical skills relevant to judicial opinion writing, clerking, and appellate litigation; but the more general goal is to impart a deeper understanding of the nature of legal analysis. Course grade will be based on class participation, one or more short “bench memo” assignments, and a final project entailing production of a mock majority and dissenting opinion in a case to be selected by the student. May be taken to satisfy the Legal Writing Requirement.

Enrollment is limited: 20

Elective Course

May Fulfill Legal Writing Requirement

Final Paper Required

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