The Role of the Special Counsel: From Watergate to Jack Smith

Catalog description

This course explores the role of independent and special counsels in the investigation and prosecution of potential violations of federal criminal law by executive branch officials. Topics will include the legal scheme governing the appointment of special counsels; the evolution of the role from Watergate to the Jack Smith investigation; appointment and removal of special counsels; and the justifications for and criticisms of the special counsel role. The course will consider these issues from a diversity of perspectives, including those of guest speakers Robert Hur, Special Counsel in the Biden classified documents investigation; Aaron Zebley, Deputy Special Counsel in the Trump Russian election interference investigation; and Andrew Goldstein, Senior Assistant Special Counsel in the Trump Russian election interference investigation. Elements used in grading: Attendance, class participation, written assignments.