Fall 2018 Course Schedule

The Supreme Court (LAW-707A-001)
Stephen Wermiel

Meets: 01:00 PM - 02:50 PM (M) - Warren - Room N101

Enrolled: 35 / Limit: 35 / Waitlist: 13

Administrator Access


Notices

With extra work and agreement from the professor, the paper for this course (if executed correctly) meets the Upper-Level Writing Requirement. **To get the graduation requirement marked as "met" the Office of the Registrar needs the signed ULWR confirmation form.

Description

The seminar examines in detail the way the Supreme Court operates as an institution. Topics include the nomination process, the granting of certiorari and shaping of the docket, the role of law clerks, the purpose of oral arguments, the influence of briefs and amicus briefs, the impact of the media and public opinion, and the process for deciding the cases. There will be role-playing exercises designed to promote critical thinking about the business of the Court, including voting on certiorari petitions and drafting short, collaborative opinions. The seminar requires class participation and a research paper, which may be used to satisfy the upper-level writing requirement. The final grade will be based on the paper and both written and oral class participation.

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

Not available at this time.

Syllabus

Use your MyAU username and password to access the syllabus in the following format(s):