Legal Studies 255 - Bias/American Legal System
Fall
2026
01
3.00
Paul Collins
TU TH 10:00AM 11:15AM
UMass Amherst
19364
Lederle Grad Res Tower rm 121
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 Open to Legal Studies majors only until May 1.