Legal Studies 255 - Bias/American Legal System

Spring
2025
01
3.00
Paul Collins

M W 4:00PM 5:15PM

UMass Amherst
47733
Integ. Learning Center S140
pmcollins@legal.umass.edu
The purpose of this course is to critically analyze how the American legal system functions, and how various forms of bias can infiltrate the legal system. To do this, we will examine the structure of the federal and state court systems; the processes by which civil and criminal disputes are handled; the work of police, lawyers, judges, and juries; and other salient topics. This course will provide you with a new way of thinking about the legal system by exploring how individuals may experience bias in the administration of justice, and what steps can be taken to lessen that bias.

Open to Legal Studies majors only. LEGAL 101

Permission is required for interchange registration during the add/drop period only.