Firearms Law. 3 credits

Catalog description

Gun control remains politically controversial and legally significant. In both state and federal court, a significant percentage of criminal law cases involve weapons offenses, and recently courts have considered whether these laws may violate the right to bear arms. This course surveys how the law regulates firearms. Students will examine the state and federal statutes that regulate the manufacture, possession, carrying, transfer, and use of firearms. Students will also considers criminal law topics with relevance beyond firearm laws, including mens rea, possession, the categorical approach, the rule of lenity, “stop and frisk,” and the right of self-defense. Students will also consider how firearms intersect with other areas of law. This part of the course will cover tort law, products regulation, administrative law, and local government law. Topics in this part include federalism, products liability, nuisance, licensing, remedies, and state preemption laws. Previous classes on statutory interpretation, administrative law, constitutional law, and criminal procedure are helpful, but not required.Offered by Law. May not be repeated for credit.