Civil Procedure I and II – (3) fall semester; (2) spring
These courses are designed to introduce beginning law students to the elements and procedures of the civil justice system. The course covers the litigation process from commencement of a case through appeals. Major topics include jurisdiction, remedies, pleading, discovery, class actions, and pretrial and trial procedures. Issues covered in the course include: In what court may a lawsuit be commenced? Over what persons and entities does a court have power? Who may participate in a lawsuit? How much information must opposing parties disclose to each other? What are the roles of the judge and jury?

Constitutional Law (5)
This course presents an introduction to the historical background, content, and meaning of the United States Constitution. The course focuses on such issues as: the origins and scope of judicial review; intergovernmental relations; separation of powers among the legislative, judicial, and executive branches; powers of the President; basic principles of individual rights and equal protection; due process; and state and federal regulatory powers. The course is taught either as one semester for five credits or split over two semesters as Constitutional Law I (2 credits) and Constitutional Law II (3 credits).

Contracts (5)
This course is concerned with the law governing private agreements. The course deals with how contracts are formed; which contracts are valid and enforceable; what constitutes breach of a contract; and what remedies are available when a contract has been breached. Issues relating to the interpretation of contract language, the role of contracts in a market economy, and the policing of unfair bargains are also explored. The course is taught either as one semester for five credits or split over two semesters as Contracts I (2 credits) and Contracts II (3 credits).

Criminal Law (3)
This course consists of an introduction to the criminal process and the role of the Constitution in reconciling the authority of government with the rights of the individual. The primary focus of the course is, however, on the substantive aspects of the criminal law. The role of the criminal law as the principal means of social control is explored, as well as the limitations on legislative power to define and punish criminal behavior. Cases and statutes are studied to develop a critical understanding of the fundamental concepts of criminal responsibility. The course includes the study of some specific crimes such as homicide and conspiracy, as well as the general principles of jurisdiction, accessorial liability, justification and the impact of mental disease, intoxication and mistake on criminal responsibility.

Legal Writing I and II – (2) fall semester; (1) spring semester
These courses provide the student with practical experience in researching and writing on legal issues. Instruction is given in legal writing, legal analysis, and use of the major research tools. Students complete written memoranda of increasing difficulty in the first semester. The second semester is devoted to written and oral appellate advocacy, culminating in the Moot Court brief and oral argument.

Property (4)
This course introduces students to the laws governing real and personal property transfer and ownership. Topics covered may include the historical development of various kinds of present and future interests in property; the sale and financing of real estate; landlord-tenant law; land use regulation; gifts of personal property; and non-traditional property rights.

Torts (4)
This course is an introduction to the principles governing civil liability for intentional and unintentional injuries to people and property. Specific topics covered may include negligence and personal injury law; strict liability; an introduction to products liability; remedies; and alternatives to the tort system.