Spring 2013 Course Schedule

Federal Courts (LAW-643-001)
Frost

Meets: 02:00 PM - 03:50 PM (MW) - Room 503

Enrolled: 35 / Limit: 50

Administrator Access


Notices

There are no notices at this time.

Description

Federal Courts examines the role of the federal judiciary in the American political system. The course thus has a dual focus on the sharing of power between the federal courts and the other two branches of the federal government (separation of powers) and the allocation of power between the federal and state judicial systems (federalism).

The course begins by examining the limits on the types of cases the federal courts are authorized by the Constitution to hear. We then discuss congressional control over federal jurisdiction and the ways in which the federal and state courts share judicial power. The last third of the course is devoted to studying two discrete areas of federal litigation that raise important questions about the scope of federal judicial power: First, the power of the federal courts to grant writs of habeas corpus; and second, the power of courts to hear cases and provide remedies for government violations of federal laws and constitutional rights.

The course is theoretical and, at times, requires close study of legal history and an understanding of the intent of the Framers in allocating judicial power. Yet it is an intensely practical course that deals with nuts and bolts problems of a federal legal practice, such as how to file (or oppose) a habeas petition on behalf of a prisoner, or how to bring (or defend against) a First Amendment claim by a journalist alleging government censorship, or how to enable (or prevent) removal of a class action from state to federal court. Any lawyer who engages in federal litigation must be aware of the requirements for instituting and maintaining cases in federal court. Thus, the course would be valuable for students who plan to clerk and/or practice in the federal court system.

Textbooks and Other Materials

The textbook information on this page was provided by the instructor. Students should use this information when considering purchases from the AU Campus Store or other vendors. Students may check to determine if books are currently available for purchase online.

First Class Readings

For the first class on Wednesday, January 9, please read the material assigned under Part I. A. of the syllabus.

Syllabus

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