Issues in Jurisprudence

Catalog description

This course provides students with a working knowledge of how the courts operate and fit within our democracy. Students will gain an understanding of the parameters of Constitutional guarantees including the Due Process Clause, the Equal Protection Clause and various guarantees contained in the Bill of Rights and how the judiciary effectuates those rights. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding how the Constitution impacts upon the operation of the law enforcement and correctional components of the criminal justice system. Sources of civil and criminal civil rights liability will be explored with an emphasis on best practices to avoid and minimize risk of liability. In addition, students will gain the tools to meaningfully access, understand and evaluate legal materials, particularly case law and statutory law.