Legislation
Certificate(s): Public Interest and Social Justice Law Certificate (List C)
Course Description:
This course explores the fundamentals of the legislative process, including its legal framework and role in a common law system. Topics include: the creation of legislation by both lawmakers and public initiatives; public interest advocacy and lobbying; judicial review and interpretation; legislative resources and research; career paths in legislation and public policymaking; and current issues in legislation. The course will focus primarily on California, including the significant role of the state’s constitution, with some federal coverage. No prerequisites.
Class Notes:
Course meets for the first 7 weeks only, beginning the second week of the semester (8/22 to 10/3). This course explores the fundamentals of the legislative process. Topics include: the creation of legislation by both lawmakers and public initiatives; public interest advocacy and lobbying; judicial review and statutory interpretation; legislative resources; career paths in legislation and public policymaking; and current issues in legislation. The course will focus primarily on California, including the significant role of the state’s constitution, with some federal coverage. No prerequisites.