Civil Procedure

This course examines the impact and importance of procedural rules in our legal system and beyond. We will explore the constitutional underpinnings behind the various doctrines studied, and we will consider the often-at-odds policies underlying the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. We will become comfortable with the federal civil litigation process from dispute to appeal, and appreciate ethical limitations on the use of procedural rules to advance client goals and solve litigation problems. Broad topics covered include subject matter and personal jurisdiction, venue, removal, joinder of claims and parties, former adjudication, pleadings, motions, amendments, discovery, and resolution without trial.