Law and Society
Course Summary
Examine the unique and complex legal system in the United States. Explore the U.S. justice system’s approach to criminal law, constitutional law, civil law, and individual rights. Gain a better understanding of law and how it affects your life, and engage in a critical examination of your legal responsibilities and rights. In this course, students acquire valuable insights into important topics including discrimination, equal protection, and privacy rights. Read and discuss practical legal problems, contemporary legal issues, and the ramifications of breaking the law.
Course Prerequisite(s):
None
Curriculum
This is a 1-semester course.
Unit 1: Introduction to Law and The Legal System
- What is Law?
- The Bystander Effect Case Study
- Lawmaking
- Advocacy
- Conflict Resolution
- The State Court System
- The Federal Court System
- Case Study of Gideon v. Wainwright
Unit 2: Constitutional Law
- Constitutional Law
- Freedom of Speech
- Case Study of Tinker v. Des Moines
- Freedom of the Press
- Prior Restraint Case Study
- Freedom of Religion
- Due Process
- Privacy Rights
- Discrimination
- Case of Brown v. Board of Education
Unit 3: Criminal Law
- Introduction to Criminal Law
- Gun Control
- Crimes against the Person
- The Case of the Dying Patient
- Crimes against Property
- Defenses
- The Investigation
- Pretrial Proceedings
- The Trial
- Sentencing and Corrections
- Capital Punishment Case Study
Unit 4: Civil Law
- Introduction to Civil Law
- Intentional Torts
- Negligence
- Strict Liability
- Torts and Public Policy
- Defenses to Torts