| Course Description: | Designed to provide students with a solid foundational knowledge base in the area of courts and sentencing within a reading- and writing-intensive seminar format. Offers students an opportunity to develop an understanding of the purpose, nature, and structure of courts and their role in the creation and maintenance of law (both domestic and international). Emphasizes the nature and impact of sentencing policy shifts. Also discusses the role of the U.S. Supreme Court and its decisions. Offers students an opportunity to understand the nature and purpose of law; the role of courts in society; the structure of courts and various court processes; the nature and purpose of sentencing; sentencing structure, process, and policy shifts; and appellate court review of sentencing practices. |