Montclair State University - Department of Legal Studies

COURSE: INTRODUCTION TO LAW

PROFESSOR: REGINIA JUDGE, ESQ.

PHONE: 973-655-7390 OFFICE: DI 329

HOURS: M 2-3 T 2-4 or R 10-12

TEXTS:

MEETING DAY: M & W, 11:00 - 12:15

PLACE: ML 163

A. Course Objectives

This course will provide an introduction to the law by describing its sources and applications. Major objectives are:

1. To build a vocabulary of legal terminology and phrases.
2. To develop basic legal skills such as legal analysis, reasoning, research and writing.
3. To became acquainted with diverse substantive areas of law.

B. CLASS REQUIREMENTS

1. Reading assignments must be prepared in advance of the class meeting date.
2. Make up examinations will only be given under severe circumstances and requires prior approval from the professor.
3. Attendance is mandatory. Excessive absences may result in lowering the final grade even if all exams are taken.
4. All assignments must be prepared prior to class and are due on the scheduled due date. They are to be typed, double spaced. Late assignments will be lowered by one grade. Specific directions for some assignments will be discussed in class.
5. Class participation is encouraged. Positive discretion (extra credit) shall be given for meaningful class involvement.
6. Examinations will cover reading assignments, class lectures and handouts. Exams are not cumulative except for general information and concepts learned in earlier parts of the course.

C. GRADING

D. Court Observation

You must attend one of the following judicial processes for a minimum of two hours. Call the court ahead of time so that you do not attend a session during which the court is only hearing guilty pleas.

1. Municipal Court
2. Superior Court, Special Civil Part ( landlord/tenant; Small Claims)
3. Superior Court
4. Administrative Hearing Prepare a three page written report setting forth the following:

1. nature of the facts of the case or cases observed

2. description of the roles of all personnel including attorneys, court attendant, etc.

3. participants and structure of the case or cases

4. physical and emotional environment

5. judge's decision and reasoning

6. critical appraisal of the proceeding; strong and weak points

7. whether you see yourself as a legal professional or paraprofessional in this setting

E. Movie Review

You shall be teamed with another member of the class. View a film which presents legal issues. Prepare a two page review of the film highlighting the legal concepts observed. Point out any legal inconsistencies you see in the film (remember this is Hollywood). You and your partner shall provide the class with a "Siskel and Ebert" type review. You don't have to agree on the film. Remember, don't tell the film's ending.

F. CLASS SCHEDULE

Revised January 1999