Law and the Judicial Process

This course provides an introduction to law and the judicial process in the United States and around the world. It examines different types of legal systems and sources of law; various competing theories of jurisprudence and legal methodology; the organization, operation, and powers of courts; the selection and retention of judges; and the role of the legal profession in society. Particular emphasis will be placed on legal reasoning and the judicial decision-making process in a variety of issue areas, including administrative, environmental, constitutional, criminal, civil, and statutory law cases. Offered annually.