Issues in Poverty Law

Catalog description

In this seminar we will examine some of the ways in which the legal system (the law, courts, lawyers, and litigation) responds to some of the most severe problems of poverty. The concept of judicial review will be critical to our efforts, i.e. what role can and should the courts, our third branch of government, play in shaping social policy. We will also pay special attention to how courts and public bodies make decisions -- what factors get special consideration from decision makers. The assigned readings will serve as the basis of class discussions. Topics will include education, homelessness, public assistance, race and criminal justice, substance abuse, housing, and other areas of relevance.