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FAMILY LAW (FAMILY LAW - 1000)
3 credits
This course explores the nature of marriage and the family as legal institutions. Beginning with the establishment of a family unit through either ceremonial or common-law marriage, the course considers the legal relationship among various members of the family, and examines the problems arising on disruption of the family unit through separation, annulment, or divorce. Grades are based upon a final examination.
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INTRODUCTION TO LAW (LEGAL METHOD - 1000)
2 credits
This course introduces methods and ideas that are fundamental components of the American legal system, with an emphasis on case law analysis and statutory interpretation. A passing grade requires regular attendance and satisfactory completion of several writing assignments.
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LEGISLATION (ADMINISTRATIVE LAW & GOV'T REG - 1060)
3 credits
This course explores the legislative process, including problems of representation and deliberation, and the proper separation-of-powers role of the judiciary in interpreting statutes enacted through that process. Topics covered will include: political theories or representation and their implications for one-person-one-vote; racial and political gerrymandering; eligibility to serve in the legislature; term limits; ballot access provisions; campaign finance reforms; bribery and conflicts of interest; lobbying regulations; state and federal item vetoes; the federal budget process; the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act; direct democracy; statutory precedents and retroactivity; theories of statutory interpretation; advanced doctrine and substantive canons of statutory interpretation; interpretation of agency regulations. Grades will be based on class participation and a final examination.
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TRUSTS AND ESTATES (TRUSTS AND ESTATES - 1040)
4 credits
This course treats intestate succession, wills, trusts, and future interests as integrated elements in the planning of family property settlements. Income, estate and gift tax implications of various arrangements are discussed, to the extent necessary to illuminate the nontax material. Fiduciary and investment aspects of the law of trusts are analyzed, as are the traditional construction, class gift and perpetuity problem areas. Grades are based upon a final examination.