Introduction to U.S. Legal Culture by Dr. Ian C. Pilarczyk
I) Background:
This assignment covers our discussion of the concept of precedent and our review of Brown v. Board of Education (1954). The objectives of this assignment are to: (a) improve written English, summation, and analytical reading skills, and build vocabulary; (b) improve spoken proficiency, confidence, and public speaking skills by presenting the writing exercise in-class; and (c) provide an opportunity to compare and contrast an aspect of your country’s legal system with that of the U.S.
II) Assignment
The assignment is to write a short paper (2-3 pages) on the concept of precedent in U.S. law. Specifically, focus on the following questions: (a) how does precedent assure us that there will be predictability and consistency in court decisions?; (b) how does the concept of precedent still allow for flexibility and change?
All papers should be double-spaced with 12 point font. This assignment is due in class next week.