Fundamental Principles
Students will understand the fundamental principles of American Civil Procedure including the rules, principles, and statutes governing the assertion of jurisdiction (subject matter jurisdiction and jurisdiction over the person or thing), the basic elements, principles and requirements of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (including pleadings, parties, motions, discovery, etc.), a few variations on or from those rules in state procedural practices, basic American principles of judgment recognition and judgment (primarily claim and issue preclusion rules), and the basic principles of the Erie doctrine regarding application of state laws and rules in federal court.
Legal Analysis and Reasoning
Students will develop and in class will practice by class Socratic discussion and case briefing skills of good legal analysis, reasoning, problem solving, and advocacy.
Basic Research
Students will know how to perform basic research regarding issues concerning the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
Effective Communication
Students will be able to communicate effectively regarding civil procedure issues orally (in class) and in writing (on the final exam and any possible short-report assignment).
Civil Procedure Issues
Students will be able to recognize and address issues that arise in Civil Procedure that implicate relevant ethical, moral, and religious principles.
Dispute Resolution
Students will understand the value and use of non-adversary alternative dispute resolution procedures and their integration with and use in resolving disputes concerning procedural rules, discovery, etc.
Lifelong Learning
Students will increase their ability and desire to engage in lifelong learning and service in their application, practice and use of the rules of civil procedure.
