This course examines the role of the federal courts in the American system of separation of powers and federalism. It explores the scope of the judicial power vested in federal courts and the constitutional and statutory principles that structure and limit that power. It also addresses how the judicial power may be used to develop substantive federal law and to safeguard fundamental constitutional rights. Topics likely to be studied include the doctrines of standing, ripeness, and mootness; congressional authority over the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and the lower federal courts; Supreme Court review of state courts; federal common law; suits challenging official action, sovereign immunity, and official immunity; and habeas. The course is highly recommended for students interested in pursuing a judicial clerkship and/or a career in litigation. Willingness to participate in class discussion is a requirement of enrollment. Elements used in grading: class attendance, class participation, and in-school final exam.
4 units · Law Honors/Pass/Restrd Cr/Fail
This course examines the role of the federal courts in the American system of separation of powers and federalism. It explores the scope of the judicial power vested in federal courts and the constitutional and statutory principles that structure and limit that power. It also addresses how the judicial power may be used to develop substantive federal law and to safeguard fundamental constitutional rights. Topics likely to be studied include the doctrines of standing, ripeness, and mootness; congressional authority over the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and the lower federal courts; Supreme Court review of state courts; federal common law; suits challenging official action, sovereign immunity, and official immunity; and habeas. The course is highly recommended for students interested in pursuing a judicial clerkship and/or a career in litigation. Willingness to participate in class discussion is a requirement of enrollment. Elements used in grading: class attendance, class participation, and in-school final exam.
Offered in Spring 2026 at Stanford University.