Comparative Criminal Law

This course will study the substantive and organizational features of the penal laws of selected countries, for purposes of understanding their systems and comparing them with each other and with American criminal law. Possible jurisdictions to be considered include the United Kingdom, Germany, France, China, Israel, and/or an Islamic nation to be determined. Possible topics include justifications of punishment, an examination of what conduct is criminalized and why, the definition and role of culpability elements, general defenses, and sentencing. This course is offered as part of the summer study abroad program in Bologna, Italy. The course is not offered every year.