This course examines selected advanced law and regulatory policy issues relating to executive branch and independent agencies. Through readings and case studies, students will gain an advanced understanding of how government agencies do what they do, and of the rules and institutions that control them. The professor, Hugh Stevenson, is currently the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's Deputy Director for International Consumer Protection.

The focus of the course will be on U.S. federal government agencies, with some comparisons drawn to state and European institutions. The class will consider the creation and structure of agencies, agency adjudication and rulemaking, as well as how agencies make policy, engage in regulatory enforcement, and interact internationally. In addition, the class will consider the various controls on government agency action, including judicial review; the role of general counsels and inspectors general; statutes governing government information access and use; and other limits on agency discretion. Guest speakers from government and the private sector will be invited to meet with the class to describe their experiences.

Case studies, some from the textbook, others from newsworthy events, will help students focus on the role of the lawyer in government agency decision-making and relations with other stakeholders. A final paper (of approximately 20 pages in length) and various in-class exercises associated with the case studies will be required. The final grade will consist of the following components: 1) final paper - 75%, 2) class participation – 25% (to include in-class exercises).

Additional Information:
Credit Hours: 3
Grading Option: Numeric Grade or Letter Grade Only
Graduation Writing Requirement: No
Flexible/Upper-Level Writing Requirement: No
Skills Requirement: No
Simulation Course: No
Experiential Learning: No
Seminar: No
Special Withdrawal Course: No
Final Exam Given: No
Paper Or In-Class Presentation: Yes
Participation Points: 25%
Attendance Policy: Per Statement Of Student Policies
Additional Attendance Policy: Per policy a student may be withdrawn for excessive absence (Section IV.E)

* The law school has a policy that is used to calculate credit hours. Please see the Statement of Student Policies.