LAW6841

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LAW 6841 - Use and Abuse of Presidential Power (2 Cr.)

Law School (10806) TLAW - Law School

Course description

This seminar analyzes the constitutional scope of presidential authority, particularly when it conflicts with prerogatives of the legislative and judicial branches. Topics include war powers; military tribunals, detentions, and torture; intelligence gathering and surveillance; control of foreign policy; impeachment; presidential appointments, removals, and control of independent federal agencies; executive privilege and immunities; checks and balances and separation of powers theory. We will critically examine the lawyer's role in advising senior government decision-makers in circumstances where law, politics, and policy considerations are intertwined. We will also discuss the legal mechanisms that are supposed to assure accountability when a president, or former president, commits a crime. Students will write papers satisfying the upper division writing requirements and will lead discussion meetings on their chosen topics.

Minimum credits

2

Maximum credits

2

Is this course repeatable?

No

Grading basis

A-F - A-F Grade Basis

Lecture

Fulfills the writing intensive requirement?

No

Typically offered term(s)

Periodic Spring