Course Descriptions - LLM Only Courses
Legal Writing B
Course Number: LAW 511B
Instructor: Professor Jean Rosenbluth/Multiple sections
Course description:
This course focuses on developing analytical and written communication skills. Students will analyze legal principles and apply them to facts. Includes short, written exercises, and drafting persuasive legal briefs. While Law School classes in the spring conclude at the end of April, class sessions for Legal Writing B will conclude at the end of March/beginning of April. Optional class for LLM and MCL students. Students may enroll in Spring only.
Unit Value: 2Grading Option: CR/D/F grading only
Exam: No
Participation: Students receive a 'Professionalism' grade which counts class participation, among other factors
Enrollment Limitations: 12 students per section
Prerequisite: Legal Writing A
Reviewing and Negotiating Business Contracts (formerly LLM Contract Drafting)
Course Number: LAW-708
Instructor: Professor Stephen Yamaguchi
Course Description:
This class will teach the fundamentals of reviewing and analyzing business contracts and negotiating business transactions with an emphasis on developing practical skills that can be used in the practice of law. For students with no legal experience, the course will serve as an introduction to the most common contract provisions and the basic tools for negotiation. For the experienced attorney, the course will explore in greater depth the nuances of common contract language and will require more sophisticated application of negotiation theory. Once students understand the basic meaning and purposes for many of the standard provisions found in contracts, the class will focus on the means by which to negotiate and rewrite these provisions to support the interests and positions of the their clients. As there will be several presentations and one-on-one negotiation sessions during many of the classes, attendance and participation will be critically important. In addition, regular assignments will require students to review and analyze contract provisions relevant to the lectures and to prepare a few brief draft contracts. Contract review and analysis, rather than drafting, will be the focus of this particular course. Class participation and assignments will be worth 50% of your grade. There will also be an in-class final examination which will be worth 50% of your grade. The course is not available to be taken CR/D/F. Although not recommended, students may use PCs for the final examination. The class size will be limited to approximately 25 to 30 students. Optional class for LLM and MCL students. Students may enroll in Fall or in Spring.
Unit Value: 2Grading Option: CR/D/F grading not available
Exam: In-house with PCs allowed, although not recommended
Participation: Required and graded
Enrollment Limitations: 25 to 30 students
Prerequisite: None
Topics in American Law
Course Number: LAW-521
Instructor: Professor John Heilman
Course Description:
This course will provide LL.M. and M.C.L students with a survey of various topics in American law. The course will cover selected topics in the following areas: criminal law, criminal procedure, evidence, family law/community property, contracts, U.S. constitutional law, tort law, wills and trusts and real property. Optional class for LLM and MCL students. Students may enroll in Fall or in Spring.
Unit Value: 3Grading Option: CR/D/F grading available
Exam: In-house exam with PCs allowed and partial take-home exam
Participation: Participation points may be assigned for exceptional participation
Enrollment Limitations: None
Prerequisite: None
