For example, we will consider whether, in light of the cases we have read, the suspects in our hypothetical can be charged with murder or manslaughter. The course will culminate in a mock murder trial, in which students will play prosecutors, defense counselors, defendants, witnesses, and jurors. We will have opening and closing arguments by counselors, and direct and cross-examination of witnesses. The jurors will be charged in the applicable law, and they will deliberate outside class and reach a verdict, which they will announce at the last class. No Prerequisites No background in criminal law, criminal procedure, or evidence is required for this course.
All students are welcome.
Both attendance and participation will count in the final evaluation. Participation in the mock trial will also be required of all. In addition to the Final Examination, there will be a Midterm Examination, probably in mid October. The principal text for the course is the sixth edition of Sanford Kadish and Stephen Schulhofer's Criminal Law and Its Processes , which is available for purchase at the school bookstore. You should also purchase a course packet, consisting of a syllabus and a book I am writing on criminal law, at the bookstore before the first class.