In this seminar, our primary focus will be on the relation between legal decisions about and non-legal perceptions of events at the center of major trials. High-profile trials are a distinct phenomenon at the nexus of the legal system and public life. Momentous legal events are not only influenced by the society in which they take place, but they, in turn, influence and alter that society. To help us get oriented the possibilities, we will read a number of accounts of high-profile trials. These accounts will include both legal and non-legal elements. We will also, however, consider the cumulative impacts of everyday trials, focusing on a study of the busiest criminal courthouse in the country. Through these narratives, we will expand our thinking about the functions of courts, judges, and lawyers in civil society.While this seminar isn’t particularly aimed at helping you think about advocacy or litigation strategy, such issues will, nonetheless, be front and center in many of our discussions. Similarly, thinking about the impact of media and news on the trajectory of a legal event will occupy our attentions. Good litigators have to think not only about the law but also about the narratives taking place in the courtroom and out of the courtroom.This is a final paper course. It offers you an opportunity to complete your long-paper writing requirement. In addition to writing a final paper, you will present about your paper topic to your colleagues. There will also be several shorter writing assignments due throughout the semester. Grading: Letter Credits: 2 or 3 Offered: Irregularly Categories: Long Paper
