POLS& 200 - Introduction to Law

5 Credits

Examines the origins, development and philosophy of law. Discusses the functions of law and legal institutions and their roles in our socio-economic systems. Provides an overview of the role of the Courts and the three branches of American government while providing an overview of selected substantive areas of Law (Criminal, Estates/Probate/ Family, Contracts, Real Property).

Course Note Previously BUSN 255 and also LEGAL 100.
Fees

Quarters Typically Offered
Fall Day, Online
Winter Online
Spring Online

Designed to Serve Sophomore Business Administration Transfer Students, Paralegal and general transfer students.
Active Date 20230328T10:34:32

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 38
Shared Learning Environment Yes
Contact Hours: Lecture 55
Total Contact Hours 55
Degree Distributions:
AA

Social Science Area I

Course Outline

Origins and Philosophy of Law
The Constitution and the States
Separation of Powers
The Bill of Rights
Civil and Criminal Law
The Role of the Judge, Attorney and Jury
Legal Reasoning
Survey of selected substantive areas of the law (i.e, Criminal, Estates/Probate, Contracts, Real Property, Family )

Student Learning Outcomes
Accurately describe the structure of U.S. government and the respective roles and functions of the state courts in the legal system.

Accurately describe the essential differences between Civil and Criminal Law.

Formulate an analysis of fact patterns and applicable law using legal professional standards and established legal principles.

Apply legal ethical rules, social responsibility and justice principles to hypothetical legal scenarios and determine appropriate outcomes.

Analyze the concept of checks and balances and the evolution of the relationships between the three branches of government to determine the pathways and barriers to reforming laws and policy.

Analyze historical and modern systemic barriers to justice to determine strategies for reform.

Distinguish and analyze the development of law in response to select contemporary societal issues.