129 courses with the subject LAW, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
LAW 508Technological Competence in Law II (0-1) Technological knowledge and skills for law practice. Topics
may include advance computerized legal research; e-filing; computer systems for lawyers and firms; computerized billing and calendar systems. One credit hour will be granted for every two courses completed in this series. Prerequisite: Completion of first year (one semester for students in the accelerated JD program). Pass/No Pass. LAW 511 Foundations of Law (2) Jurisprudential survey of the foundations of law, including the development of higher and natural law theories, the influence of higher and natural law and Christian principles on the development of Anglo- American law, and the rise and influence of modern legal philosophies. LAW 512 Foundations of Practice (1) Introduction to the lawyer’s roles and responsibilities; duties to God, clients, courts, and bar, ethical and moral challenges; and development of a moral code and ethical decision-making framework. Includes assessment of students’ God-given gifts, consideration of how their strengths intersect with legal opportunities, and how to pursue a professional calling. Pass/No Pass. LAW 521 Contracts I (3) History and development of the common law of contracts; the principles controlling the formation, enforcement, and avoidance of contracts; as well as preliminary consideration of remedies for breach of contract. LAW 522 Contracts II (2) The principles controlling the performance and breach of contracts, rights of third parties, as well as additional consideration of remedies for breach of contract.
LAW 531Criminal Law (3) Introduction to the foundations and common law doctrines of criminal law and modern
statutory provisions. LAW 541 Torts I (2) Civil liability resulting from breach of duties arising from common law as distinguished from duties imposed by contract or criminal law, focusing especially on intentional torts. LAW 542 Torts II (3) Civil liability resulting from breach of duties arising from common law as distinguished from duties imposed by contract or criminal law, focusing especially upon negligence, invasion of privacy, and defamation. LAW 551 Civil Procedure I (2) Jurisdiction of federal and state courts and fundamental issues related to a plaintiff's ability to sue a defendant in a specific federal district, including subject matter jurisdiction, personal jurisdiction and venue. Not available to LL.M. students. LAW 552, 553 Legal Analysis, Research & Writing I & II (3, 3) Introduction to the law library and to the use of the full range of source materials available to lawyers and judges in the practice of law. Complete written projects designed to develop legal writing and research skills necessary for the practice of law. LAW 554 Civil Procedure II (3) Procedures and rules governing the process by which a civil lawsuit proceeds through the federal system, including the rules governing pleadings, claims by and against the defendant, pretrial discovery, summary judgment, judicial involvement in case management, the trial and appeal; joinder of claims and parties, and the preclusive effect of a judgment in one suit involving one or more of the same parties in a successive suit. Prerequisite:
LAW 556 Fed Civil Pretrial Practice & Procedure (3) Focuses on case management, discovery, pretrial motions, and drafting of pleadings in federal district courts. Includes strategies and tactics for utilizing federal and local rules for effective and professional practice. LAW 558 Law Journal (1-2) Students conduct research and evaluation of subject matter or other comparable academic activities related to publication of scholarly legal journals. Limited to Law Review or Journal Board members. Course may be repeatable for academic credit up to a total of 2 credit hours. Instructor approval required. Prerequisites: LAW 552 and 553. Pass/Low Pass/No Pass.
LAW 560Christian Ethics and the Law of Armed Conflict (3) Considers the nature of war and peace, including
thought and practice from philosophical and religious viewpoints, with particular reference to the Christian tradition (e.g., just war theory) and the formal law of armed conflict. Cross-listed with GOV 605. LAW 561 Property I (3) The nature of personal and real property, including principles of property acquisition, rights, and ownership; and the law governing the transfer of personal property by gift or sale, estates in land and future interests, concurrent estates, and leaseholds. LAW 562 Property II (2) The law governing the ownership and use of real property, including adverse possession; real estate contracts; merchantable title; mortgages; deeds and other instruments of conveyance; the recording system and title insurance; easements; real covenants and equitable servitudes; and takings. LAW 563 Intellectual Property (3) Addresses the fundamental principles of the legal mechanisms for protecting the intangible products of the mind, including patent, copyright, and trademark, and related doctrines of unfair competition. LAW 590 Independent Study (1-2) Learning experience that allows research and evaluation of subject matter or conduct other comparable academic activities with minimum faculty guidance. Guidelines are published in the law school’s Policies and Procedures Manual. Course may be repeatable for academic credit up to a total of 2 credit hours. Instructor approval required Prerequisites: LAW 552 and 553. LAW 595 Apprenticeship (4-10) Students directly experience and participate in the practice of law by working without remuneration under the supervision of a practicing attorney or judge in a government office, judicial chamber, nonprofit organization, or private firm, with oversight by a full-time faculty member. Course may be repeatable for academic credit up to a total of 10 credit hours.: Instructor Approval required. Pass/Low Pass/No Pass. LAW 602 Business Structures & Agency (3) Survey of the law of agency and partnerships, corporations and other business structures. Study of: the law governing formation, control, liabilities, property, dissolution and disposition of partnerships; internal and external relations of partners; and close and public corporations, their origins, structure, rights and liabilities of management and shareholders. Prerequisites: LAW 521 and 522. LAW 541, 542, 551, and 554 are recommended but not required.
LAW 603Business Analytics & Finance (3) Introduction to analytics and finance in the context of business
organizations. Includes basics of decision analysis and game theory; designing contracts to allocate risk and incentivize performance; accounting, financing, market economics, statistics, survey design, present value, net present value, project financing, leverage, diversification, derivatives, and efficient capital markets. Prerequisites: LAW 521 and 522. LAW 541, 542, 551, and 554 are recommended, but not required. Co-requisite: LAW 602. LAW 605 Case Studies in National Legal Policy (1) Constitutional, statutory, and regulatory implications regarding issues such as drug enforcement and capital punishment in the context of the principle of the equal protection of the law for all Americans. LAW 606 Business Acquisitions & Transactions (3) Examines foundational topics in corporate law with a focus on securities regulation and mergers and acquisitions. Prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, and 602. LAW 541, 542, 551, and 554 are recommended, but not required.
LAW 610Cyber Security Law (3) Addresses cyberspace and cyber security terms and issues. Focuses on laws and
regulations concerning crimes, rights, and duties related to cyber security offenses. Considers how the law does and should respond to new technologies. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 512, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, and 562. LAW 620 Patent Law (3) Teaches the fundamental principles of federal patent law, including appeal procedures to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims and the U.S. International Trade Commission. Subject areas include patent eligibility, novelty, statutory bars, non-obviousness, anticipation, prior art, patent specifications enablement, patent claims, patent prosecution, reissue, reexamination, international prosecution, infringement, doctrine of equivalents, reverse doctrine of equivalents, equitable defenses, licensing of patents, injunctions and patent enforcement. Prerequisites: LAW 561 and 562. LAW 621 Sales (2) Study of the law governing commercial transactions with primary focus on sales (Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), leases (Article 2A of the UCC) and the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG). J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 521 and 522.
LAW 625Trademark & Unfair Competition Law (3) Teaches the fundamental principles of federal trademark law
and an introduction to the Lanham Act. Subject areas include distinctiveness, secondary meaning priority, concurrent use, registration, service marks, certification marks, confusion, reverse confusion, functionality, abandonment, infringement, contributory infringement, incontestability, fair use, trade dress, trade dress infringement, false representations, dilution, parody, injunctive relief, disclaimers and international aspects of trademark protection. LAW 626 Introduction to Law Librarianship (2) Open to selected students who have demonstrated expertise in legal research and/or interest in law librarianship. Designed to introduce the various departments and areas of specialization, and the different types of law libraries, their organizational structures, collections and services. Prerequisites: LAW 552 and 553. LAW 627 Negotiable Instruments/Payment Systems (3) Study of the transactions relating to and the law regulating the various kinds of payment systems with particular reference to the Uniform Commercial Code. Areas covered include negotiable instruments under Article 3 and bank deposits and collections under Articles 4 and 4A. May examine how federal regulations affect this area of law. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 521 and 522. LAW 621 and LAW 622 are recommended but not required. LAW 630 Employment Discrimination (3) Laws pertaining to employment discrimination, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and administrative practices before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Special consideration given to religious discrimination. School of Law Page 254
LAW 634Criminal Law & Procedure (3) Common law doctrines of criminal law, modern statutory provisions, and
limitations imposed on law enforcement activities by the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. LAW 640 Products Liability (3) Study of the legal principles governing the liability for harm caused by products including the historical development of products liability, theories of recovery, typical defenses and recurring issues. Prerequisites: LAW 541 and 542. LAW 650 Appellate Advocacy (3) Develop written and oral appellate advocacy skills through appellate brief-writing and participation in simulated oral arguments. Teaches how to present clear and persuasive arguments to appellate judges. School of Law Page 329
LAW 651Legal History in Judicial Decisionmaking (2-3) Examines the role of legal history in modern judicial
decisionmaking, focusing on recent judicial opinions that appear to be decided primarily based on historical reasoning, and critically examining the cited historical sources. Students will be equipped to confidently incorporate historical argument into their legal thinking and future advocacy. Prerequisite: LAW 683 (can be taken concurrently with LAW 683 with instructor’s permission). LAW 652 Evidence (4) Study of the law of evidence, the rules governing its admission and exclusion and the policies and theories underlying the evidentiary system. Subject matter areas include order of proof, relevance, judicial notice, real and documentary evidence, hearsay, competence, presumptions, privilege, impeachment and rehabilitation of witnesses. LAW 654 Trial Practice (3) Develop courtroom skills of process and persuasion through simulated civil and criminal cases. Emphasis is on opening statement, direct and cross-examination and closing argument. Be involved in class exercises conducting these aspects of trial practice. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, 562, and 652. LAW 655 Negotiations (3) Develop legal negotiation skills through participation in simulated negotiations. Negotiation exercises are video-taped for review and faculty critique and evaluation. Classroom discussion is devoted to examining and
LAW 668Advanced ADR (1-2) Extension of Negotiation and General Mediation. Students will enhance their
understanding and skills related to representing clients in negotiation and mediation and may participate in interscholastic competition. Prerequisite: LAW 655 or 656. LAW 669 Bioethics (3) Designed to deal with legal problems that confront current issues regarding and surrounding biology, medicine and the law. Focuses on managing biology, ethical theory and genetic control to afford protection, life and provision in the biblical framework and context of the family. Links the practical knowledge of the law with social, moral and policy issues that are very real in bioethics law practice. Prerequisite: LAW 511. LAW 661 is recommended but not required. LAW 671 Individual Federal Income Taxation (3) Study of the statutory, judicial and administrative law relating to federal income taxation of the individual. Prerequisite for all other tax courses. Prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 561 and 562.
LAW 672Human Rights, Civil Liberties, and National Security (1) Discussion of balancing the government’s
responsibility to defend the body politic and its parallel duty to safeguard the rights of individuals. Exploration of the tensions of achieving security and freedom from Lincoln’s suspension of habeas corpus to Bush’s detention of terrorist combatants. Prerequisites: LAW 511 and completion of two semesters of J.D. programs. LAW 673 Classical Legal Theory and Natural Law (3) This seminar course will consist of an in-depth study of the Classical Legal Tradition and its concept of Natural Law, including foundational concepts developed in Greek and Roman philosophy, Biblical texts, and Christian teaching from antiquity well into modernity. These concepts include metaphysical realism, virtue ethics, the inherently moral nature of law, the derivation of all authority from God, the common good, the purpose of law and government, conflicts between positive and natural law, etc. The course will also cover the current resurgence of classical legal thinking and its proposed applications for contemporary legal problems. LAW 675 Con Framework of Relig Liberty (1) The efforts of all three branches of the federal government to preserve, protect, and defend freedoms of religious belief and practice. The principles and practices of religious liberty litigation. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 511, completion of two semesters of J.D. program, and LAW 684 (may be taken concurrently). LAW 676 Jurisprudence Seminar (1) Select issues in constitutional interpretation, stare decisis, and how appellate courts communicate outcomes through the preparation of an opinion. Instructor approval required. J Prerequisites: LAW 511 and completion of two semesters of J.D. program. LAW 683 Constitutional Law I – Constitutional Structure (3) Study of principles of U.S. constitutional law, in both historical and contemporary contexts. Subject matter areas include: the biblical, philosophical, historical and political background of the U.S. Constitution; judicial review; the distribution and separation of governmental powers in the U.S. federal system, with emphasis upon the federal commerce, taxing and foreign affairs powers; and intergovernmental relations. Prerequisite: LAW 511 and completion of one semester of J.D. program. LAW 684 Constitutional Law II – Individual Rights (3) Continuation of the study of principles of U.S. constitutional law, in both historical and contemporary contexts. Subject matter focuses on the First and Fourteenth Amendments, with emphasis on due process, equal protection, freedom of speech and press, and free exercise and non-establishment of religion. Prerequisite: LAW 683. LAW 691 Professional Responsibility (3) Examination and analysis of the authority and duties of lawyers in the practice of their profession as advocate, mediator and counselor, and of their responsibility to God, to government, to the courts and the bar and to their clients, including a study of the ABA Rules of Professional Conduct.. Prerequisites: LAW 511 and completion of two semesters of J.D. program. LAW 521, 522, 531, 541, 542, 551, and 554 are recommended but not required.
LAW 703Nonprofit, Tax-Exempt Organizations (3) Study of the laws and legal principles applicable to exempt
organizations. Topics covered include the legal structure and organization of nonprofits, issues of taxation and tax-exempt status, government regulation of exempt organizations and potential liability arising from the conduct of a ministry. J.D. student prerequisite: LAW 511.
LAW 705Government Contract Law (3) This survey course examines and analyzes the legal principles governing
contracts with the federal government. Students study the federal government's role and authority as a commercial purchaser in the free market. The class delves the topics of contract formation, performance, termination, and the resolution of disputes concerning these areas as informed by the applicable statutory and regulatory framework as well as key court and administrative decisions. We also look briefly at some of the other ways in which government contracts are used as a tool of the federal government to achieve regulatory and policy aims. LAW 706 Labor Law (3) Discusses the history of collective bargaining in the public and private sectors and considers the practical, constitutional, and political issues involved in union exclusive representation. Using the National Labor Relations Act as the backdrop, the course surveys the parallel public employee bargaining statutes. Employer, union, and individual employee rights are studied from the time of the selection of a union representative through the collective bargaining process to the final contract and its enforcement. Union obligations regarding individual employees are studied in some detail. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, and 562. LAW 707 Right to Work Legal Scholarship (1-2) Provides students interested in employee rights in the context of compulsory unionism, public interest law, and litigation with the opportunity to complete at least one long-term research
LAW 715The East African Legal Environment: A Comparative Introduction (3) A topical survey of the legal
environment in sub-Saharan Africa designed for American law students with an interest in global justice issues. LAW 722 Remedies (3) Study of the law of judicial remedies, both equitable and legal, focusing on the nature and scope of the relief available. Emphasizes the various types of injunctive relief, declaratory judgments and enforcement powers of the courts, including contempt proceedings. Provides a brief study of the development of chancery courts and the continuing distinction between equitable and legal remedies. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, and 562. LAW 723 Bankruptcy (3) Study of federal bankruptcy law and the law of debtors and creditors under state law. Specific topics include the property of the estate, the automatic stay, exemptions, discharge, preferences and reorganization. Such topics as judgment liens, executions, attachments, garnishments and fraudulent transfers will be covered in the non - bankruptcy portion of the course. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 561, 562, 621 and 622. LAW 622 may be taken concurrently. LAW 724 International Business Transactions (3) Study of the legal framework and problems of doing business across state borders. Subject matter areas include international economic policy, international trading of goods, regulation of international trade, foreign investment, and the resolution of international disputes. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 561, and 562. LAW 725 Insurance (3) Overview of the fundamental legal principles of insurable interests in lives and property. Subject matter areas include the nature of an insurable interest, selection and control of risks, coverage of risks and adjustment of claims and government regulations of the insurance industry. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, and 562. LAW 726 Securities Regulation (3) Begins with an examination of the federal law and policies governing the offer and sale of securities in the primary market, including initial public offerings, private placements, and the subsequent resale of securities with attention to the Securities Act of 1933. Coverage will include the definition of a security; registration requirements; exemptions from registration; enforcement mechanisms and the duties and liabilities of corporations, their officers and directors, underwriters, financial advisors, and lawyers under the 33 Act. The course continues with an examination of the federal law and policies governing trading of securities in the secondary market with attention to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Coverage will include the disclosure and reporting obligations of public companies and the rules governing insider trading by corporate executives and others. Coverage may include a study of federal regulation of proxies, mergers or tender offers, or the role of broker-dealers, investment advisors, investment companies or self- regulatory organizations. J.D. student prerequisite: LAW 602. LAW 727 Mergers & Acquisitions (3) A study of the law governing business combinations, asset acquisitions, and changes of corporate control, including the statutory and non-statutory forms; the application of the business judgment rule and other corporate rules as they relate specifically to target company defensive tactics and efforts to maximize target company shareholder value or to maximize other interests or to promote other constituencies; the role and concerns of various participants, including seller-side concerns, typical buyer-side concerns, and various public policy concerns; the economic arguments for and against mergers, acquisitions, and changes in control; and the stages of a transaction, documentation of a transaction, legal compliance requirements, and closing. J.D. student prerequisite: LAW 602.
LAW 723Bankruptcy (3) Study of federal bankruptcy law and the law of debtors and creditors under state law
Specific topics include the property of the estate, the automatic stay, exemptions, discharge, preferences and reorganization. Such topics as judgment liens, executions, attachments, garnishments and fraudulent transfers will be covered in the non-bankruptcy portion of the course. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 561, 562, 621 and 622. LAW 622 may be taken concurrently. LAW 724 International Business Transactions (2) Study of the legal problems encountered doing business abroad and, for aliens, in doing business in the U.S. Subject matter areas include antitrust, export-import, investment and taxation regulations, international economic policy, regional economic organizations and multinational corporations. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 561,562 and 602. LAW 725 Insurance (3) Overview of the fundamental legal principles of insurable interests in lives and property. Subject matter areas include the nature of an insurable interest, selection and control of risks, coverage of risks and adjustment of claims and government regulations of the insurance industry. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 511, 551, 554, 521, 522, 561, 562, 541, 542, 552 and 553. LAW 726 Securities Regulation (3) Begins with an examination of the federal law and policies governing the offer and sale of securities in the primary market, including initial public offerings, private placements, and the subsequent resale of securities with attention to the Securities Act of 1933. Coverage will include the definition of a security; registration requirements; exemptions from registration; enforcement mechanisms and the duties and liabilities of corporations, their officers and directors, underwriters, financial advisors, and lawyers under the 33 Act. The course continues with an examination of the federal law and policies governing trading of securities in the secondary market with attention to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Coverage will include the disclosure and reporting obligations of public companies and the rules governing insider trading by corporate executives and others. Coverage may include a study of federal regulation of proxies, mergers or tender offers, or the role of broker-dealers, investment advisors, investment companies or self-regulatory organizations. J.D. student prerequisite: LAW 602. LAW 727 Mergers & Acquisitions (3) A study of the law governing business combinations, asset acquisitions, and changes of corporate control, including the statutory and non-statutory forms; the application of the business judgment rule and other corporate rules as they relate specifically to target company defensive tactics and efforts to maximize target company shareholder value or to maximize other interests or to promote other constituencies; the role and concerns of various participants, including seller-side concerns, typical buyer-side concerns, and various public policy concerns; the economic arguments for and against mergers, acquisitions, and changes in control; and the stages of a transaction, documentation of a transaction, legal compliance requirements, and closing. J.D. student prerequisite: LAW 602. LAW 732 Juvenile Law (3) Discussion of problems related to minority status, including jurisdiction of the state, detention, responsibility for the crime, rights and responsibilities of the parents, and the constitutional, statutory and case law parameters of the juvenile law system. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 511, 551 and 554. LAW 735 International Trafficking in Persons (3) Overview of the global problem of trafficking in persons for purposes of sexual exploitation and forced labor. The course examines the issue of trafficking from several perspectives: (i) the various international conventions that prohibit trafficking in persons; (ii) regional examples of trafficking and factors that contribute to it such as civil unrest and governmental corruption; and (iii) the United States legislative and foreign policy response to trafficking in persons. This course will focus on trafficking in persons as a human rights violation and the treatment of trafficked persons as a victim of a crime. J.D. student prerequisites: Completion of first year. J.D. student recommended: LAW 683, 684, and 784. Cross-listed with GOV 654. School of Law Page 258
____________________________________________________________________________________________ 1 Students with at least a 3.000 cumulative law GPA at the end of their first year, for traditional students, or at the end of their second year, for flexible students are not required to take Comparative Written Legal Analysis (LAW 737), Virginia Written Legal Analysis (LAW 738), or Advanced Legal Analytical Methods (LAW 739), but may still elect to do so. All other students will be registered to take (1) either LAW 737 or LAW 738, and (2) LAW 739. 2 Honors Students are required to choose only two courses in the Limited Electives Menu. The criteria for becoming and remaining an Honors Student are outlined in the School of Law Policies and Procedures Manual. 3 Virginia Procedure is required for any non-Honors student to be certified by the Law School to take the Virginia Bar Examination. Students who are required to take a Limited Electives course and who declare they do not plan to take the Virginia Bar Examination may substitute any of the other Limited Electives courses for Virginia Procedure.
LAW 751Federal Courts (3) Study of the role of the federal courts in the U.S. Focuses on an analysis of the
constitutional and legislative foundations of the judicial power of the U.S. and an examination of the practice and procedure in the federal court system. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 551, 554 and 683. LAW 752 Law Practice Management (2) Prepares for entry into the private practice of law, including ethical and personal pressures related to private law practice. Among other requirements, conduct an initial client interview and identify ethical issues presented during the interview. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 551, 554, 521, 522, 561, 562, 541, 542, 552 and 553.
LAW 755Advanced Legal Research & Writing (3) Seminar that exposes a deeper understanding of the skills and
materials of electronic legal research. Emphasizes the development of practical, useful skills and equipping students for clerking and other work experiences. Produce weekly written assignments dealing with different research materials and a topical research guide. Prerequisites: LAW 552 & 553. LAW 757 Drafting Contracts (3) The law and techniques of contract formation and drafting. Provides experience in the imaginative thinking that a lawyer must pursue in integrating the expressed and implied agreements of the parties to a contract. Provides opportunities to learn to create legal documents that express the agreement not only clearly, but also in a manner that defies any contrary interpretation. Enrollment limited by instructor. J.D. prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 552 and 553. LAW 762 Real Estate Transactions & Skills (3) Advanced skills course to prepare in the practice of law relating to real estate transfer and finance. Perform simulations that address practical aspects of title examinations, title searches, contracts for the purchase and sale of real estate, conveyancing techniques, mortgaging foreclosure practices and settlement and closing of title. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 561 and 562. LAW 763 Estate Planning (3) Provides an understanding of estate and gift tax adequate for planning moderate-sized estates, and teaches how to structure, prepare, manage, and use an appropriate estate plan and advise clients concerning the accumulation, preservation and distribution of their estates. Prerequisite: LAW 662. LAW 765 Capstone in Financial Planning (3) Involves case analysis and the integration of financial planning, insurance planning, investment planning, taxation, retirement and employee benefits, and estate tax planning in comprehensive personal financial planning. Students will learn how to manage case scenarios to identify issues, analyze client financial situations, and make and implement recommendations. Prerequisite: Enrollment in the course is subject to instructor approval. LAW 768 Environmental Law (3) Survey of various topics including the biblical view of man’s relationship to the environment, common law remedies, public trust and police power, takings, judicial review of administrative action, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), water pollution (Federal Water Pollution Control Act), air pollution (Clean Air Act), the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA/Superfund) and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Prerequisites: LAW 561 and 562.
LAW 760AI in Legal Practice (2) Practical course introducing AI fundamentals and the use of
generative AI in the legal field in a workshop format. The course covers at a functional level the capabilities of different artificial intelligence tools and how they are developed. Students will learn the basics of prompt engineering and apply a variety of prompt-engineering approaches to solve various natural language processing and conversational AI tasks. Students will learn to effectively and accurately use generative AI for legal research, to assist in legal writing such as memo writing, draft writing, brief writing, contract writing, and to assist in analyzing legal issues. LAW 761 Patents in the AI Age: Mastering Tomorrow's Legal Landscape (3) This innovative course offers a unique, hands-on experience that mirrors working within a virtual online law firm. You will simulate guiding an invention through the patent application process with the USPTO, utilizing generative AI tools for drafting, analysis, and responding to patent examiner rejections. The course features a flipped classroom model with recorded lectures and interactive discussions, emphasizing practical skill development. While centered on patent law, the techniques and competencies gained, particularly in using AI in legal practice, are broadly applicable across the legal field. LAW 762 Real Estate Transactions & Skills (3) Advanced skills course to prepare in the practice of law relating to real estate transfer and finance. Perform simulations that address practical aspects of title examinations, title searches, contracts for the purchase and sale of real estate, conveyancing techniques, mortgaging foreclosure practices and settlement and closing of title. Prerequisites: LAW 521, 522, 561 and 562. LAW 763 Estate Planning (3) Provides an understanding of estate and gift tax adequate for planning moderate-sized estates, and teaches how to structure, prepare, manage, and use an appropriate estate plan and advise clients concerning the accumulation, preservation and distribution of their estates. Prerequisite: LAW 662. LAW 765 Capstone in Financial Planning (3) Involves case analysis and the integration of financial planning, insurance planning, investment planning, taxation, retirement and employee benefits, and estate tax planning in comprehensive personal financial planning. Students will learn how to manage case scenarios to identify issues, analyze client financial situations, and make and implement recommendations. Instructor approval required.
LAW 766Land Use Planning (3) Introduces the law pertaining to basic zoning and land use planning tools and
techniques from classical zoning to the contemporary methods. Examines the role of the comprehensive plan in the zoning process, subdivision controls, historic and environmental preservation techniques, growth control and the issue of financing capital facilities by taxing new developments. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 561 and 562. LAW 768 Environmental Law (3) Survey of various topics including the biblical view of man’s relationship to the environment, common law remedies, public trust and police power, takings, judicial review of administrative action, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), water pollution (Federal Water Pollution Control Act), air pollution (Clean Air Act), the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA/Superfund) and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Prerequisites: LAW 561 and 562. LAW 771 Partnership Tax (2) Advanced course in the law of federal income taxation with special emphasis on sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies and related aspects of S corporations. Prerequisites: LAW 671 and LAW 602.
LAW 774First Amendment Law (1-3) Survey of the protections guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S
Constitution. Topics covered include freedom of religion, the establishment clause, freedom of speech and freedom of the press. Prerequisites: LAW 683 and 684. LAW 775 State Con Law (2) An exploration of the nature and significance of state constitutional law, including (1) the nature of the States and the historical role of their constitutions; (2) rights protected by state constitutions as compared to federal constitutional rights; (3) the responsibilities of state courts when interpreting state constitutional provisions in light of their federal counterparts (as interpreted by SCOTUS); (4) the constitutional structures of the state governments; and (5) issues of popular control over state governments, including the means of amending state constitutions. LAW 778 Advanced Appellate Advocacy I (1-3) Extension of Appellate Advocacy. Independently research and write a significant portion of a moot court team’s brief; members of each team will then pool their independent work and complete the entire brief for competition. Additionally, present practice oral arguments in class and have the opportunity to serve as judge for classmates. Instructor approval required. Prerequisites: LAW 650 and membership on an interscholastic moot court team. LAW 779 Advanced Appellate Advocacy II (1-3) Extension of Advanced Appellate Advocacy I. Independently research and write a significant portion of a moot court team’s brief; members of each team will then pool their independent work and complete the entire brief for competition. Additionally, present practice oral arguments in class and have the opportunity to serve as judge for classmates. Earn one, two, or three credits (maximum of five credits when combined with LAW 778). Prerequisites: LAW 778 and membership on an interscholastic moot court team. LAW 780CA Child Advocacy Clinic (1-3) Students work on projects relating to policy making regarding children’s issues pending before state legislative and regulatory bodies and may represent actual clients in need of legal counsel/representation. Course may be repeated for academic credit, up to a total of 6 credit hours. Instructor approval required. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 552, 553, 554, 561, and 661. LAW 780HT Human Trafficking Clinic (1-3) Students working in the Center for Global Justice Human Trafficking clinic will represent human trafficking survivors in vacatur and expungement proceedings and related matters. They may also work on current legal and policy issues affecting trafficking victims in the justice system. Students will attend class weekly, meet with clients, and prepare petitions. The first semester of the Clinic will be taken for 3 credits, and the second semester can be taken for 1-3 credits. Course may be repeated once for academic credit, up to a total of 6 credits. Instructor approval required. LAW 780IM Immigration Practicum (1-3) Students work with professor to present cases to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Department of Justice Immigration Court. Responsibilities include: client intake interviews, evidence gathering, legal research, drafting motions, and client correspondence. Course may be repeatable for academic credit up to a total of 3 credit hours. Instructor approval required. LAW 780PP Prosecution Practicum (3) All aspects of the art and craft of prosecution. Ethical requirements of being a prosecutor. Practical skills necessary to become great prosecutors. Day-to-day duties and responsibilities of a prosecutor in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Instructor approval required. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 531, 552, 553, 631 (may be taken concurrently), 652 (may be taken concurrently) and 654, Virginia Third-Year Practice Certificate. LAW 781 Administrative Law (3) Study of the law pertaining to the appropriate functions and purposes of administrative agencies in government; constitutional limitations on agency structure and action; analysis of informal and formal procedures, investigation, rule-making and adjudication with a focus on the Federal Administrative Procedure Act and judicial review. Prerequisites: LAW 551 and 683. LAW 782 State & Local Government (3) Nature, constitution, powers and liabilities of municipal corporations, and the interrelationships between municipal, county and state governments. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, 562, and 683.
Subject
LAW
Type
course
Repeatable
may be repeated for academic credit, up to a total of 6 credit hours.
LAW 776Comparative Law (2) Focuses on the nature of Comparative law, the concept of legal tradition and the
development of civil law, common law and other legal traditions in the contemporary world of nation states. J.D. student LAW 778 Advanced Appellate Advocacy I (1-3) Extension of Appellate Advocacy. Independently research and write a significant portion of a moot court team’s brief; members of each team will then pool their independent work and complete the entire brief for competition. Additionally, present practice oral arguments in class and have the opportunity to serve as judge for classmates. Earn one, two, or three credits. Prerequisites: LAW 650 and membership on an interscholastic moot court team. LAW 779 Advanced Appellate Advocacy II (1-3) Extension of Advanced Appellate Advocacy I. Independently research and write a significant portion of a moot court team’s brief; members of each team will then pool their independent work and complete the entire brief for competition. Additionally, present practice oral arguments in class and have the opportunity to serve as judge for classmates. Earn one, two, or three credits (maximum of five credits when combined with LAW 778). Prerequisites: LAW 778 and membership on an interscholastic moot court team. LAW 780BK Bankruptcy Law Practicum (1-2) Apply bankruptcy law to financial problems of debtors and creditors under supervision of practicing bankruptcy attorney. Fifty hours of supervised work required per credit hour. May be repeated with instructor approval but for no more than a cumulative total of two credits. Prerequisites (or concurrently): LAW 511, 521, 522, 551, 552, 553, 554, 561, 562; and 622 (or concurrently) or 723 (or concurrently). Permission of Instructor. Pass/Low Pass/No Pass. LAW 780CA Child Advocacy Clinic (1-3) Students work on projects relating to policy making regarding children’s issues pending before state legislative and regulatory bodies and may represent actual clients in need of legal counsel/representation. Course may be repeated for academic credit, up to a total of 6 credit hours. J.D. student required. LAW 780IM Immigration Practicum (1-3) Students work with professor to present cases to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Department of Justice Immigration Court. Responsibilities include: client intake interviews, evidence gathering, legal research, drafting motions, and client correspondence. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 552, 553, and 785. Permission of Instructor. LAW 780P1 Professional Skills Practicum I (2-4) Designed to develop students’ analytical skills and reinforce understanding of foundational substantive legal principles in preparation for the Multistate Bar Examination . Pass/Low Pass/No Pass. LAW 780P2 Professional Skills Practicum II (2) Designed to develop students’ analytical and writing skills in preparation for all components of the bar examination. Pass/Low Pass/No Pass. LAW 780PP Prosecution Practicum (3) All aspects of the art and craft of prosecution. Ethical requirements of being a prosecutor. Practical skills necessary to become great prosecutors. Day-to-day duties and responsibilities of a prosecutor in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 531, 552, 553, 631 (may be taken concurrently), 652 (may be taken concurrently) and 654. Permission of Instructor.LAW 781 Administrative Law (3) Study of the law pertaining to the appropriate functions and purposes of administrative agencies in government; constitutional limitations on agency structure and action; analysis of informal and formal procedures, investigation, rule-making and adjudication with a focus on the Federal Administrative Procedure Act and judicial review. Prerequisites: LAW 551 and 683. LAW 782 State & Local Government (3) Nature, constitution, powers and liabilities of municipal corporations, and the interrelationships between municipal, county and state governments. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, 562, and 683.
Subject
LAW
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated with instructor approval but for no more than a cumulative total of two credits.
LAW Seminar/Other Course Approved by Academic Petition to Satisfy (1-3) * Appellate Advocacy and Advanced Appellate Advocacy can be used to satisfy either the Experiential/Oral Skills or the Written Rigorous Skills requirement, but a single course cannot be used to satisfy both.
LAW 781Administrative Law (3) Study of the law pertaining to the appropriate functions and purposes of
administrative agencies in government; constitutional limitations on agency structure and action; analysis of informal and formal procedures, investigation, rule-making and adjudication with a focus on the Federal Administrative Procedure Act and judicial review. Prerequisites: LAW 551 and 683. LAW 782 State & Local Government (3) Nature, constitution, powers and liabilities of municipal corporations, and the interrelationships between municipal, county and state governments. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 552, 553, 554, 561, 562, and 683. LAW 783 Conflict of Laws (3) Study of the theories of the application of laws involving domicile and citizenship, bases of jurisdiction, foreign judgments and, in transactions having elements in more than one state, the choice of governing law in such fields as property, contracts, torts and family law. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 552, 553, 554, 561, 562, and 683. LAW 784 International Law (3) Discussion and study of the nature of international law; state jurisdiction; the individual legal system; statehood and recognition of states; diplomatic and consular immunity; international agreements; the use of force; and an overview of various international organizations. J.D. student prerequisites: Completion of one semester of law school.
____________________________________________________________________________________________ 1 Students with a 3.0 GPA at the end of their first year, for full-time students, or at the end of their second year, for part- time students are not required to take Comparative Written Legal Analysis (LAW 737), Virginia Written Legal Analysis (LAW 738), or Advanced Legal Analytical Methods (LAW 739), but may still elect to do so. All other students will be registered to take (1) either LAW 737 or LAW 738, and (2) LAW 739. 2 Honors Students are exempt from the Limited Electives requirements. The criteria for becoming and remaining an Honors Student are outlined in the Law School’s Policies and Procedures Manual. 3 Virginia Procedure is required for any student, except Honors Students, to be certified by the Law School to take the Virginia Bar Examination. Students who are required to take a Limited Electives course and who declare they do not plan to take the Virginia Bar Examination may substitute any of the other Limited Electives courses for Virginia Procedure.
LAW 785Immigration Law & Procedure (3) Citizenship, acquisition and maintenance of major immigrant and non
immigrant classifications; admission into and exclusion or deportation from the U.S.; and structure and procedures of the Immigration and Naturalization Service, Board of Immigration Appeals, Department of State and Department of Labor. LAW 786 Legislation (3) Legislative process with emphasis on the lawyer’s perspective and functions, issues of representative theory, legislative organization and procedure, interaction of the legislature with other branches of government and research and drafting in the legislative context. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, and 562
LAW 787Advanced Appellate Advocacy III (1-3) Extension of Advanced Appellate Advocacy II. Independently
research and write a significant portion of a moot court team’s brief; members of each team will then pool their independent work and complete the entire brief for competition. Additionally, present practice oral arguments in class and have the opportunity to serve as judge for classmates. Earn one, two, or three credits (maximum of six credits when combined with LAW 778 and LAW 779). Prerequisites: LAW 778, LAW 779, and membership on an interscholastic moot court team LAW 790 National Security Law (3) Study of national security law from a United States perspective. Begins with the constitutional framework and relevant principles of international law, and then moves to specific topics such as using force abroad; the Fourth Amendment; detention and habeas corpus; interrogation; and prosecuting combatants in federal courts and by military commission. Prerequisite: LAW 683. LAW 795 Externship (1-5) Students will experience the practice of law and develop professional skills by working off campus under the direct supervision of one or more attorneys, in governmental offices, or in a judicial or other approved placement. May also include a classroom component. May be repeated for academic credit, up to a total of 5 credit hours. J.D. student prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 552, 553, 554, 561, and 562. Pass/Low Pass/No Pass.3 LAW 861 Advanced Property (3) The law pertaining to the nature of private property, both real and personal, including biblical principles relevant to property acquisition and ownership, personal property issues, donative transfers, the common law classification of estates and future interests, and concurrent estates. The law and biblical principles pertaining to the acquisition, ownership and use of real property; landlord-tenant law; easements; covenants and servitudes; transfers of interests in real property, including an examination of merchantable title, deeds, legal descriptions, conveyancing, recording systems and title assurance, adverse possession, and land use controls. LAW 882 School Law (2) Focuses on the legal aspects of public, private and home education, including: 1) the legal framework for public education; 2) First Amendment and other constitutional issues related to the public schools; 3) government regulation of private/parochial schools; and 4) parental rights concerning home education. Prerequisites: LAW 511, 521, 522, 541, 542, 551, 554, 561, and 562.
Subject
LAW
Type
course
Repeatable
May be repeated for academic credit, up to a total of 5 credit hours.
Master of Arts Degree (M.A.) M.A. in Law Program (30 credit hours) (The program may be completed entirely online, but some courses are available on campus. The Master of Arts in Law program is designed to address the need for further training in law in specialized fields without the time and expense commitment of a Juris Doctor program. The program can be completed in between one and three School of Law Page 316
1 All of these courses are not offered every semester and/or academic year. Some are offered alternating semesters and/or academic years. Students may confirm which courses will be offered each year by checking the LL.M. – Human Rights link on the law school’s website. Master of Legal Studies (MLS) Master of Legal Studies (Non-Licensure, 32 credit hours) The program may be completed entirely online, but some courses are available on campus. The Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program (Non-Licensure) is designed to address the need for further training in law in specialized fields without the time and expense commitment of a Juris Doctor program. The program can be completed in between one and three years depending on whether the student devotes full-time or part-time effort. This program is designed for achievers who want a credential, and therefore a competitive advantage, in the following types of positions: • An entry level government position in Homeland Security (the National Security concentration) or criminal justice (the Criminal Justice concentration); • An entry level position in a private for-profit company (the Business concentration) or nonprofit agency (the Non-profit Organization Law concentration); • An entry level position in a human resources department in government or the private sector (the Human
LAW 816Agency & Partnerships (2) Law of agency and law governing formation, control, liabilities, property
dissolution and disposition of partnerships, and the internal and external relations of partners. LAW 818 Civil Pretrial Practice (2) Developing a civil lawsuit according to the rules and procedures of the state in which the student intends to practice. Focus includes complying with statutes of limitations, drafting pleadings, determining evidence needed, conducting discovery, and preparing for and trying cases. LAW 821 Conflict of Laws (2) Theories and application of laws involving domicile and citizenship, bases of jurisdiction, foreign judgments and, in transactions having elements in more than one state, the choice of governing law in such fields as property, contracts, torts and family law.
LAW 819Constitutional Law & Policy I (3) Examines the history of the Constitution, the structure, power and
limitations of each of the 3 branches of the federal government, the power and rights of the states, and the authority of local governments (counties and cities). 3 May be used to satisfy the New York Bar Examination’s experiential course requirement.
LAW 822Advanced Business Associations (2) Advanced corporate governance, control structures, and fiduciary
obligations; specialized financial transactions, capitalization, and distributions; organic structural changes, business combinations, and control contests; regulatory overlays and liability frameworks in close and public business associations. LAW 824 Advanced Civil Procedure (3) Jurisdiction of federal and state courts and fundamental issues related to a plaintiff’s ability to sue a defendant in a specific federal district, including subject matter jurisdiction, personal jurisdiction and venue. LAW 825 Advanced Constitutional Law (3) After covering select structural issues of federalism and the separation of powers together with equal protection of fundamental rights and due process rights related to death, this course devotes itself to studying the First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and religious liberty. LAW 826 Professional Responsibility (3) Authority and duties of lawyers in the practice of their profession as advocate, mediator and counselor, and of their responsibility to God, government, courts, bar and to their clients. The course focuses on the ABA Rules of Professional Conduct and relevant state professional codes of professional responsibility. LAW 827 Remedies (2) Equitable and legal remedies, including injunctive relief, declaratory judgments and enforcement powers of the courts, including contempt proceedings. LAW 828 Advanced Contracts (3) Common law of contracts, and the principles controlling the formation, performance and termination of contracts (offer, acceptance, consideration, conditions, material breach, damages, third party beneficiaries, assignment, statute of frauds and statutory variances from the common law). LAW 829 Advanced Criminal Law (3) Advanced concepts in criminal liability, defense frameworks, and specialized offenses; analysis of inchoate crimes, accomplice and party liability, and justification or excuse defenses; systemic characteristics and modern developments in criminal law. LAW 830 Advanced Evidence (3) Rules and principles governing the proof of facts in legal proceedings; modern trial litigation strategy and argumentation; development and application of the Federal Rules of Evidence to factual scenarios. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Human Rights LAW 891 Human Rights Research and Writing (2) Seminar that introduces LL.M. students to the full range of source materials available and research and analytical methods used by lawyers conducting scholarly research and writing in the field of human rights. Produce abstract, outline, and bibliography in preparation for LL.M. Thesis requirement. LAW 899 Thesis (3) Independent study and writing project in human rights conducted under faculty supervision. Produce a publishable quality article or manuscript 35-50 pages in length. Required for LL.M. in Human Rights. Prerequisite: LAW 891. Master of Legal Studies
LAW 823Contracts (3) Common law of contracts, and the principles controlling the formation, performance and
termination of contracts (offer, acceptance, consideration, conditions, material breach, damages, third party beneficiaries, assignment, statute of frauds and statutory variances from the common law). LAW 826 Professional Responsibility (3) Authority and duties of lawyers in the practice of their profession as advocate, mediator and counselor, and of their responsibility to God, government, courts, bar and to their clients. The course focuses on the ABA Rules of Professional Conduct and relevant state professional codes of professional responsibility. LAW 827 Remedies (2) Equitable and legal remedies, including injunctive relief, declaratory judgments and enforcement powers of the courts, including contempt proceedings. LAW 831 Constitutional Criminal Procedure (4) Study of limitations imposed on law enforcement activities by the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution as applied to the States via the 14 th Amendment. Procedurally, the course considers the criminal justice process from the investigation through arrest and initial court appearance. LAW 851 Civil Procedure I (3) Jurisdiction of federal and state courts and fundamental issues related to a plaintiff’s ability to sue a defendant in a specific federal district, including subject matter jurisdiction, personal jurisdiction and venue. LAW 962 Trusts & Estates (3) Introduction to the basis legal principles of intestate succession; to the execution, construction, revocation and interpretation of wills; to the creation of trusts; to the fiduciary administration of trusts and estates; and to the acquisition of the basic legal principles of transferring family wealth. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Human Rights LAW 891 Human Rights Research and Writing (2) Seminar that introduces LL.M. students to the full range of source materials available and research and analytical methods used by lawyers conducting scholarly research and writing in the field of human rights. Produce abstract, outline, and bibliography in preparation for LL.M. Thesis requirement. LAW 899 Thesis (3) Independent study and writing project in human rights conducted under faculty supervision. Produce a publishable quality article or manuscript 35-50 pages in length. Required for LL.M. in Human Rights. Prerequisite: LAW 891. Master of Legal Studies
LAW 883International & Comparative Human Rights (2-3) Addresses the questions of the universality of human
rights, including the right of life, the right to death, rights of the child, women’s rights, religious freedoms, the rights of third-world countries and the export of Western values to Eastern societies. Prerequisite: LAW 511. Master of Laws (LL.M.) in American Legal Studies LAW 813 Foundations of Legal Thought (3) (1) The philosophical and theological sources and nature of American law including select substantive legal issues. LAW 814 American Legal System & Writing (3) American legal system and skills necessary to succeed in that system, including reading cases and statutes, analyzing legal issues, and researching selected topics of American law. Course culmination is a legal research paper. LAW 815 Advanced Torts (3) Civil liability resulting from breach of duties arising under common law; intentional, negligence and strict liability torts and theories of liability and recovery; defamation, interference with contract, and strict products liability.
Students may design their own concentration of study for fall and spring semesters by selecting electives from the following lists of courses: On-campus Electives and Online Electives. The total number of elective credits must be at least 22 credit hours. 1 On-campus Electives:
Master of Laws (LL.M.) with a concentration in Human Rights (30 credit hours) (Concentration delivered online or on-campus.) The LL.M. with a concentration in Human Rights is designed for lawyers who desire advanced legal education regarding international, regional, and domestic human rights protection and promotion from a biblical perspective. Students normally complete their studies in one academic year (two semesters).
