Introduction to Legal Education and the Legal Profession

Catalog description

This course provides an overview of the American legal system and an introduction to the study and practice of law. Designed for undergraduates considering law school or careers related to law, it explores the pathways to legal education, the professional and ethical responsibilities of attorneys, and the role of lawyers as problem-solvers and agents of change in diverse professional settings. Through a combination of readings, guest lectures, and site visits to courts, students will gain first-hand insight into the work and lives of legal professionals. The course also explores the ethical framework that governs the practice of law. Students will examine how the rules of professional conduct guide lawyers through complex challenges, while also reflecting on how these professional standards intersect with personal values and moral reasoning. By the end of the semester, students will have a deeper understanding of the legal profession, the challenges it faces in contemporary society, and the skills and commitments required of those who pursue a career in law.