Curriculum Guide · Courses

Professors Hope and Thompson

J.D. Course 111 | 2 credit hours

There is a unique quality to the practice of law in Washington that derives from the need to understand the workings of all branches of government; administrative, judicial and political processes; the media; and often international and foreign law and politics. The challenges often arise in the context of highly visible disputes that are the subject of considerable public attention.

The course will provide an opportunity for students to examine in some detail aspects of several highly publicized controversies of the past few years which together provide a focus on Washington practice and the way in which an understanding of the interplay of legal and political forces within the context of Washington contributes to the development of solutions to the problems of individuals, corporations, interest groups and governments. The peculiar ethical challenges raised by working as legal counsel in such situations will be a recurring subject of discussion throughout the course. Some of the principal participants in several well known cases will be invited to meet with the class to describe their experiences and to engage in discussion about the Washington lawyer’s role and the legal and other tools used to advance client interests in such situations.

A number of case studies will be used to advance the objectives of the course. They will in part be determined by evolving events, but will include such controversies as the legal aspects of contested elections, legal issues generated by accusations of scandal and wrongdoing involving U.S. Government officials and agencies, and legal issues arising from major international conflicts.

Students will be required to write two short papers offering reflections on aspects of the case studies and classroom discussion. Grades will be based upon the two papers and upon the extent and quality of classroom participation.