Advanced Topics in Constitutional Law

Catalog description

This course will focus on cases that are on the Supreme Court's docket for decision in the current term. Through readings of cases and secondary material, students will examine the background of the current controversies, and the political and social issues that they raise. As a part of the course, each student will participate in mock hearings on the cases, acting sometimes as an advocate for one party and sometimes as a judge. In preparation for this, students will conduct research under supervision. Students will also participate in gathering materials on the broader political-social implications of the controversies which will be read and discussed by the class. Prerequisite: one course requiring the reading of legal cases (POLS B220, POLS/PHIL B245, POLS B273, POLS H215, H216) or consent of instructor.