Introduction to American Law

This course provides a general introduction to the law and legal system of the United States, including its history and institutions.

Topics include historical background and development of US law, sources of law, the interaction of state and federal law, the structure of the US court system, basic principles and doctrines of common law, the adversary process, and trial by jury.

The course also surveys substantive law in a range of selected subject areas and issues, such as Constitutional law, contracts, torts, criminal law, family law, separation of powers, freedom of speech, due process, equal protection, and law and religion.

Students are also introduced to some of the most important cases in US legal history.