College Website: https://www.law.wvu.edu/
West Virginia University College of Law students have a passion for justice, an interest in how our legal system contributes to society, and a desire to learn a discipline that is both structured and creative.
The College of Law provides students a unique opportunity to attend a small public law school within a nationally recognized research university. Here you can join diverse students from around the globe who come together in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia to experience public legal education with the intimacy of a fine private law school. Small class sizes and an excellent faculty-student ratio tell part of the story, but not all.
What makes the College of Law experience exceptional is its culture of excellence. Our faculty, staff, and students are committed to creating a rigorous, inclusive, exciting, and supportive educational community in which individuals can pursue their personal vision of success in the legal profession.
Our faculty members are outstanding teachers, scholars, and leaders in legal education. What distinguishes our faculty from others, however, is the remarkable commitment they have in mentoring students to help them achieve individual goals. The faculty supervise student articles for publication, assist in obtaining prestigious federal judicial clerkships, and provide guidance for student-led symposia exploring cutting-edge topics. In addition, whether our faculty members teach corporate securities or civil disobedience, each one exemplifies the duty of a lawyer to serve the public interest.
To fulfill its commitments to individual student success and to improving the profession by producing the leaders of the future, the College of Law has a rapidly developing curriculum that combines the best of traditional legal education with new courses and opportunities necessary to practice law in the global society in the 21st century.
Mission Statement of the College of Law
The College of Law's mission statement is, "Preparing 21st century lawyers and leaders to serve the public, government, and business — both locally and globally — while focusing on justice, ethics, professionalism, and service in a diverse, vibrant, and respectful community."
Administration
Dean
- Amelia Smith Rinehart - J.D. (University of Chicago); M.S. (Tulane)
William J. Maier, Jr. Dean and Professor of Law
Associate Deans
- Valarie Blake - J.D. (University of Pittsburgh)
Associate Dean for Faculty Research & Development, Professor of Law - Jessica Haught - J.D, (West Virginia University)
Interim Associate Dean for Administration, Teaching Professor of Law - John Taylor - Ph.D. (Stanford University); J.D.(University of North Carolina)
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs & Jackson Kelly Professor
Assistant Deans
- Jennifer Powell - J.D. (West Virginia University); M.S.W. (West Virginia University)
Assistant Dean for Student Services and Engagement - Maggie Tague Slater - B.B.A (University of Miami); J.D. (Notre Dame Law School)
Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management
Directors
- Andrew Barnes - B.A. (West Virginia University); M.S. (West Virginia University)
Director of Development - Dan Kimble - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Center for Law and Public Service - Jonathan Marshall - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Center for Consumer Law and Education - Lauren McCartney - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Career Services and Professional Development - Caroline Osborne - J.D. (University of Richmond); LL.M. (Emory University)
Law Library - Melanie Stimeling - M.A. (West Virginia University); B.A. (West Virginia Wesleyan College)
Writing Center - Keith Walton - B.S. (West Virginia University)
Law School Technology
Associate and Assistant Directors
- Brad Grimes - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Program Director - Elissa Momen - M.A. (West Virginia University)
Associate Director, Enrollment Management and Scholarships
Faculty
Professors of Law
- Robert M. Bastress - J.D. (Vanderbilt University); LL.M. (Temple University)
John W. Fisher, II Professor of Law - Charles R. DiSalvo - J.D. (University of Southern California); M.A. (Claremont Graduate University)
Woodrow A. Potesta Professor of Law - Ann Eisenberg - J.D. (Cornell); LL.M. (West Virginia University)
Professor of Law; Research Director of Center for Energy and Sustainable Development - Jessica Haught - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Teaching Professor; Director of Legal Writing - David L. Krech - J.D. (Cornell University)
Director of Appellate Advocacy - Anne M. Lofaso - J.D. (University of Pennsylvania); Ph.D. (University of Oxford)
Arthur B. Hodges Professor of Law - Patrick C. McGinley - J.D. (Duke University)
Charles H. Haden II Professor of Law - Dale P. Olson - J.D. (University of Minnesota); LL.M. (Yale University)
- Alison Peck - J.D. (Yale Law School); LL.M. (University of Arkansas)
- Jesse Richardson - J.D. (University of Virginia)
- John E. Taylor - J.D. (University of North Carolina); Ph.D. (Stanford University)
Jackson Kelly Professor of Law - Matthew Titolo - J.D. (University of California); Ph.D. (University of California)
- James Van Nostrand - J.D. (University of Iowa); LL.M. (Pace University)
- Shine (Sean) Tu - J.D. (University of Chicago); Ph.D. (Cornell University)
- Kirsha Trychta - J.D. (Duquesne University School of Law)
Teaching Professor; Director of the Academic Excellence Center - Suzanne M. Weise - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Teaching Professor, Director of the Child and Family Law Clinic
Associate Professor
- Cody Corliss - J.D. (Cornell University)
Associate Professor of Law - Amy Cyphert - J.D. (Harvard University)
Associate Professor - Mary Claire Davis - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Teaching Associate Professor
Land Use and Sustainable Development Clinicians
- Jared Anderson - J.D. (Catholic University of America)
Land Use Attorney - Christy Burnside DeMuth - M.S. (Indiana University of Pennsylvania)
Land Use Planner - Katherine Garvey - J.D. (University of Missouri-Kansas City); LL.M. (Vermont Law School)
Director of the Land Use and Sustainable Development Clinic - Staci Thornsbury - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Staff Attorney - Jason Walls - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Managing Attorney
Professors Emeriti
- David Hardesty, Jr. - J.D (Harvard University)
President Emeritus, West Virginia University (1995-2007) - Gerald G. Ashdown - J.D. ( University of Iowa)
James. H. Buck and June M. Harless Emeritus - Forest J. Bowman - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Jackson and Kelly Professor of Law Emeritus - Vincent P. Cardi - J.D (Ohio State University); LL.M. (Harvard University)
Bowles Rice Professor of Law Emeritus - James Elkins - J.D. (Kentucky)
Arthur Dayton Professor of Law Emeritus - John Fisher - J.D. (West Virginia University)
William J. Maier, Jr. Dean Emeritus; Robert M. Steptoe and James D. Steptoe Professor of Law Emeritus - James Friedberg - J.D. (Harvard)
Hale J. and Roscoe P. Posten Professor of Law Emeritus - Robert Lathrop - LL.M. (New York University)
Professor Emeritus - Joyce McConnell - J.D. (Georgetown University)
Thomas R. Goodwin Professor of Law Emeritus - Marjorie McDiarmid - J.D. (Columbia Univeristy); LL.M. (Harvard University)
Steptoe and Johnson Professor of Law and Technology Emeritus - Thomas O. Patrick - J.D. (West Virginia University)
Teaching Professor Emeritus - Camille M. Riley - J.D. (St. Louis University)
Associate Professor of Law Emeritus - Grace Wigal - M.A. Marshall University; J.D. (West Virginia University)
Teaching Professor Emeritus
Degree Designation
Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.)
The J.D. program forms students’ professional identities as lawyers and provides students with the core legal knowledge and practical skills to pass the bar exam and to serve their clients competently and ethically.
In developing professional identity and values, the College of Law seeks to produce students committed to professional excellence, justice, leadership, public service, global engagement, and lifelong learning. College of Law graduates are trained to be legal problem solvers who possess a solid grasp of the substantive and procedural law of their chosen fields, understand their professional responsibilities and ethical obligations, and have the varied skills needed for successful practice, including: legal analysis, legal writing, legal research, factual investigation, client counseling, negotiation, drafting, and advocacy.
Master of Laws (LL.M.)
Our LL.M. programs offer post-J.D. students an opportunity to deepen their subject-matter expertise and skills in particular areas of the law.
Energy & Sustainable Development Law
The LL.M. in Energy & Sustainable Development Law provides lawyers with a deep and broad knowledge of law and policy in the critical areas of energy, environmental protection, and sustainable development. Students will master these areas through course work, writing projects, and a variety of experiential learning opportunities. LL.M. graduates will have the skills necessary to work as lawyers serving energy companies, investors, utilities, manufacturing companies, lawmakers, policymakers, regulators, land use professionals, and environmental organizations.
Admissions - Doctor of Jurisprudence
First-Time Admissions
The College of Law admits new J.D. students for the fall term only and begins accepting applications for the following fall via LSAC on September 1st. A completed application is comprised of the following required documents:
- Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- LSAT and/or GRE
- Transcripts
- LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) law school report
- Character and Fitness information
- TOEFL (see Admissions website for applicability)
The following are optional or may be requested of a candidate by the Enrollment Management Office:
- "Why West Virginia University College of Law?" statement
- Diversity Statement
- Addendum
- Interview
The priority application deadline for new J.D. students is March 15th. The regular application deadline for new J.D. students is July 31st.
For additional information, please visit the College of Law Admissions homepage.
Transfer Admissions
A transfer student is a student who has taken some or all of his or her first-year curriculum at another law school and is admitted to earn a J.D. degree at the College of Law. As described more fully below, the College of Law accepts transfer students only from other law schools accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). The College will not accept transfer applicants from law schools that do not award letter grades (or their numerical equivalent) during the first academic year or its equivalent. All candidates who transfer to the College of Law from another ABA-accredited law school must satisfactorily complete courses aggregating at least forty-five (45) credit hours at the College of Law. In addition, a transfer student must earn the last thirty (30) credit hours at the College of Law.
The College of Law will accept transfer credits only for courses where the student earned a grade of C or better. In exceptional circumstances, the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs may approve the transfer of a small number of pass/fail credits. The Associate Dean will determine the total number of credit hours that will transfer; however, only in exceptional cases will the Associate Dean give credit for more than thirty-two credit hours. The Associate Dean will also determine whether particular courses taken at another law school satisfy specific course requirements at the College of Law. Graded credits at other law schools that transfer to the College of Law will be entered on the student’s College of Law record as pass/fail credits, and hence will not affect the student’s College of Law grade point average.
In order to graduate, all transfer students must obtain a cumulative grade point average of 2.50 or better on courses taken at the College of Law. Transfer students are not eligible for election to Order of the Coif at the College of Law.
The deadline for transfer applications is July 1. The College of Law has established the following guidelines for the Enrollment Management Committee to use in reviewing transfer applications:
- In reviewing applications for advanced standing, the Enrollment Management Office will give preference to West Virginia residents.
- Applicants must have completed at least one academic year of study or its equivalent at the institution from which transfer is being sought. For admission purposes, one year of study or its equivalent is equal to a minimum of twenty-eight credit hours of coursework. The twenty-eight (28) credit hours should ideally include the following coursework, but the College of Law will consider transfer applicants who have a substantial number of the listed courses:
- Civil Procedure
- Contracts I
- Torts I
- Constitutional Law
- Criminal Law
- Property I
- Legal Writing/Research/Analysis courses
- Introduction to the Profession
- Applications from students seeking to transfer from schools that are not accredited by the ABA will not be accepted under any circumstances. (The applicant may apply as a first- year student.)
- Applications for transfer to the College of Law for the second year will be considered by the Enrollment Management Office on the basis of the following:
- The size of the returning second-year class.
- The applicant’s grades and/or class rank at his or her law school. Applicants from law schools who do not provide either a GPA or class rank for 1L students will not be considered for transfer.
- Whether the applicant would have been admitted to the College of Law in the first year had the applicant applied.
- The academic strength of the law school attended by the applying student, including whether it is accredited by the AALS. (ABA accreditation is required.)
- Recommendation letters from law professors in whose class the applicant was enrolled. (Two are required.)
- Residency of the applicant.
- All of those facts, performance records, recommendations, and other matters that the Office normally considers for applicants to the first-year class, including everything that might implicate the student’s fitness for the practice of law.
- Any other activities and experiences of the applicant occurring since the student began law school.
- Any other information regarding the applicant that may be considered relevant to success in law school.
- In addition to the aforementioned criteria, applicants must meet the requirements set forth below.
- Applicants must conform to all other relevant criteria relating to first-year entering students as found in the admission policy of the West Virginia University College of Law.
- Applicants must submit a certified official transcript of their first-year law school grades and class ranking. If class ranking from the law school is unavailable, the applicant must submit sufficient information about grades from the law school attended to make a reasonable estimation of class ranking. No one will be admitted for transfer without class rank (or its reasonable equivalent) based on a full year of law school attendance, as defined above.
- Applicants must provide a letter of good standing from the Dean of the law school (or his or her designee) from which the student is transferring.
- Applicants must submit a copy of their most recent LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report including a certified transcript of undergraduate school grades.
- Applicants must fully explain any ethical or other problems with admission that may appear in the file.
- Applicants must submit the completed file to the Enrollment Management Office by July 1 in order to be considered for transfer.
- In considering applications for admission from individuals with credits or degrees from foreign institutions, the Enrollment Management Office shall have the authority to make any of the below stated decisions with regard to the applicant:
- The Committee may admit the applicant as a first-year entering student.
- The Committee may admit the applicant with advanced standing by granting credit for specific course work completed at another institution. (AALS Executive Committee Regulations 2.8 and 2.9 prescribe limitations on the award of advanced standing.)
- The Committee may admit the applicant as a special student for the purposes of auditing courses or transferring course work to another institution.
- The Committee may deny admission to the applicant.
Transient Admissions
The College of Law accepts transient students only from other law schools accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA). A transient student is one who has taken or will take most of his or her work toward a J.D. at another ABA-approved law school and will earn a degree from that institution. Transient students are permitted to earn some credits toward that J.D. while in temporary residence at the College of Law, provided that they obtain permission from their school and from the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.
Admissions - LL.M. (Master of Laws)
Energy & Sustainable Development
The College of Law is not accepting applications during the 2024-2025 academic year.
The College of Law's LL.M. in Energy & Sustainable Development Law is a source for a high-quality professional legal education and a home for thought leaders in the areas of energy and sustainable development.
Minimum admission requirements for the program are as follows:
- A J.D. from an ABA (American Bar Association) accredited school.
- A J.D. grade point average of at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or other demonstrated indicia of likelihood of success.
- A demonstrated interest in or commitment to the fields of energy and/or sustainable development.
For additional information, please visit the LL.M. in Energy & Sustainable Development Law homepage.
The College of Law also offers students an opportunity for a dual J.D./LL.M in Energy and Sustainable Development Law. For more information about participating as a dual degree student, please visit the J.D./LL.M homepage.
Applicants may include newly graduated J.D. students, professionals (prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges) returning for study after years of practice, or qualified international students.
Accreditation
The JD program within the College of Law has specialized accreditation through the Section of Legal Education of the American Bar Association.
The College of Law was established in 1878, accredited by the AALS in 1914, and approved by the ABA in 1923. The College of Law is fully approved by the American Bar Association Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar. Since 1952, the ABA Council of the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar has been approved by the U.S. Department of Education as the recognized national agency for the accreditation of professional schools of law.
Further information as to the Standards and Rules of Procedure for the Approval of Law Schools by the American Bar Association may be obtained from the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar, 321 N. Clark Street, 21st Floor, Chicago, IL 60654. Phone: (312) 988-6738, Fax: (312) 988-5681. Email: legaled@americanbar.org. Website: http://www.americanbar.org/groups/legal_education.html
LAW 604. Natural Resources. 3 Hours.
A survey course that includes law, theory, and practical management challenges of natural resource policy, with a strong substantive foundation in a broad range of resources, including water, timber, minerals, and wildlife.
LAW 605. Post-Conviction Remedies. 3 Hours.
The examination of post-trial issues in an actual criminal case, identifying legal errors in all aspects; jury instructions, testimony, evidence to support the conviction, and decision.
LAW 608. Art Law. 3 Hours.
A thorough examination of various legal topics and issues through the prism of art. Topic include intellectual property concepts of copyright, fair use and parody, First Amendment issues, non-profit organizations, sales warranties, authenticity, and salvage.
LAW 609. Child Protection and the Law. 3 Hours.
A primary focus on child abuse and neglect civil protection proceedings as defined by West Virginia Code, Chapter 49; and an examination of both federal law and West Virginia's statues, rules, and case law.
LAW 611. Consumer Protection Law. 3 Hours.
A practical survey of various state and federal laws designed to protect consumers, including WV Consumer and Credit Protection, Fair Debt Collection, Fair Credit Reporting, Truth in Lending, Fair Credit Billing and Gramm-Leach-Bliley.
LAW 612. Agriculture & Food Law. 2-3 Hours.
A consideration of the impact of law and policy (e.g., environmental law, property rights, subsidies, alternative production methods) on agricultural and the food system.
LAW 613. International Environmental Law. 2-3 Hours.
An issue- based approach to IEL, identifying pressing problems such as global climate change, ozone depletion, biodiversity, and studying some of the instruments and tools that have been created to deal with them.
LAW 615. Elder Law. 3 Hours.
A thorough examination of various legal topics and issues relating to the special needs of the elderly. Topics include legal capacity, surrogate decision- making, guardianship, Medicare, Medicaid, elder abuse, nursing homes and advance directives.
LAW 616. Cultural Property. 3 Hours.
This course will focus on issues concerning the restoration of artworks displaced during World War II, as well as the protection and preservation of cultural heritage and artifacts.
LAW 617. Geneva Study Abroad. 1-3 Hours.
(May be repeated for a maximum of 3 credit hours.) A 2-component, study abroad course with initial classroom preparation and subsequent travel to Geneva. This course addresses key subjects and themes in modern international trade regulation.
LAW 618. Criminal Procedure: Investigation. 3 Hours.
A course designed to cover all facets of the investigatory stage of criminal procedure: the right to representation by counsel, rules surrounding police practices and procedures of search and seizure, interrogation and identification.
LAW 619. Criminal Procedure: Adjudication. 3 Hours.
A comprehensive examination of criminal procedure adjudication covering regulation of prosecutors, defense counsel, pretrial legal issues, pretrial motions, plea bargains, and sentencing.
LAW 621. Lawyers as Leaders. 2-3 Hours.
An exploration of topics related to the theory and practice of leadership by lawyers intended to develop effective leadership skills for application in both the legal profession and in society in general.
LAW 622. E-Discovery. 3 Hours.
An introduction to the basics of identification, preservation, collection, search and production of Electronically Stored Information and effective utilization of procedural and evidentiary rules, practice pointers, and admissible evidence.
LAW 623. Election Law and Policy. 3 Hours.
A survey of American political structure and legal process, exploring the constitutional, administrative, and policy-related aspects of the political framework, including the right to vote, redistricting, political parties, campaigns, and campaign finance.
LAW 624. Advanced Legal Research. 2 Hours.
The course focuses on advanced legal research methodologies and strategies within the context of federal, state, and local law. It is designed to prepare law students for research in practical settings.
LAW 625. Nonprofit Organizations. 2-3 Hours.
An analysis of various types of nonprofit organizations, as well as legal issues often faced in contemporary society. Formation options for the tax-exempt form, taxation law related to nonprofit organizations, and charitable planning options will be addressed.
LAW 626. International Trade Law. 3 Hours.
A study of laws that affect businesses buying and selling products or services beyond U.S. borders. Includes the structure of the WTO system, economic theories underlying free trade, and remedies for unfair trade.
LAW 627. Land Use/Sustainable Development Clinic 1. 7 Hours.
A clinical course offered to selected, third year law students, who with faculty supervision, will provide transactional representation to clients regarding real estate law and land use law policy.
LAW 628. Land Use/Sustainable Development Clinic 2. 7 Hours.
PR: LAW 627. A continuation of LAW 627 presenting an opportunity for a higher level of responsibility, finalization of matters, and continued assistance to clients regarding real estate law and land use law and policy.
LAW 629. Advanced Family Law Advocacy. 2 Hours.
A focus on laws and issues of a domestic relations practice by using West Virginia domestic law as a framework, with emphasis on practical application.
LAW 630. Energy Law. 3 Hours.
An examination of law and regulatory policies that govern and impact the energy industry, including all energy sources and alternative fuel possibilities.
LAW 631. Cyberlaw. 3 Hours.
Cyberlaw explores the application of law to all aspects of internet activity and function. Topics such as privacy, consumer protection, trademarks, copyrights, on-line contracting and jurisdiction will be covered.
LAW 632. Advanced Labor Law. 3 Hours.
LAW 741 recommended. Advanced topics in labor-management relations under the general jurisdiction of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and the courts.
LAW 633. International Business Transactions. 3 Hours.
LAW 729 recommended. A foundation for the pursuit of a career as a corporate attorney with an international focus.
LAW 634. Energy Reg, Markets and Environ. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on the legal basis for the economic regulation of energy, the environmental impact of energy production, and the development of policies promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency.
LAW 635. Land Use and Resilience Law. 3 Hours.
This course covers the multi-faceted nature of land use and resilience law, including common-law and private-law mechanisms and the regulatory state and planning. In addition, various topics in resilience law are introduced.
LAW 636. Copyright Law. 3 Hours.
PR: Student in College of Law. This course covers the basics of copyright, including copyrightable subject matter, formalities and copyright registration, and the substantive and procedural elements of infringement and defenses. Technological developments affecting copyright are also addressed (software/internet).
LAW 637. Transactional Skills. 3 Hours.
PR: LAW 779. A practical approach to transactional skills development with in-class simulation of all aspects including, planning, interviewing, negotiating, and drafting of business contracts.
LAW 639. Food and Drug Law. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on the historical development of food and drug law and issues involving carcinogens and risk assessment in food safety; regulation of nutrition, and approval of new drugs, devices, and vaccines for diseases.
LAW 640. Parent, Child, and State. 3 Hours.
An exploration of the role and responsibility of the state to protect children and appropriate legal intervention as based upon West Virginia laws.
LAW 641. Introduction to Legal Research. 1 Hour.
PR: Student in the College of Law. This course focuses on basic legal research methodologies and strategies within the context of federal, state and local law. It is designed to prepare law students for basic research in practical settings.
LAW 642. Law Practice Management. 3 Hours.
PR: Student in the College of Law. This course introduces law office business operations and simulates office decision making dynamics. Subjects include human resources, financial planning/management, marketing, project management, office design, technology, quality control and similar subjects.
LAW 643. Taxation of Business Entities. 4 Hours.
PR: LAW 719. A comparative survey of the federal income taxation of C corporations, S corporations, and partnerships.
LAW 644. Energy Siting & Permitting. 3 Hours.
This course involves a review of the statutes, regulations and administrative processes associated with the regulatory approvals necessary to develop various energy facilities.
LAW 645. Water Law. 3 Hours.
A survey of water allocation doctrines that apply to surface and ground water. The origins of federal power, controversies between governing bodies, public rights, water quality and water-energy nexus, and water rights will be studied.
LAW 647. Nuclear Law & Policy. 3 Hours.
An examination of the law and regulations governing nuclear power facilities in the U.S. and the policies related to such regulations.
LAW 648. Energy Business/Law & Strategy. 3 Hours.
An examination of how law and regulation are used for strategic purposes in the energy industry, including: multi-market case studies using law in business strategies and the business perspective on the evolution of energy law.
LAW 649. Trademark & Unfair Competition. 3 Hours.
A study of basic trademark and unfair competition law to include false advertising and the right of publicity, with a focus on federal trademark statutes, state law protection, and the Federal Trade Commission’s role.
LAW 650. Entrepreneurship Clinic 1. 7 Hours.
In a clinical setting, apply Intellectual Property and Business Law concepts to assist actual clients in entrepreneur endeavors, covering the basics of business organizations, IP protection, financing, and contracting and the effect on entrepreneurs.
LAW 651. Entrepreneurship Clinic 2. 7 Hours.
PR: LAW 650. A continuation of Entrepreneur Clinic 1 to assist actual clients in entrepreneur endeavors, covering the basics of business organizations, IP protection, financing, and contracting and the effect on entrepreneurs.
LAW 652. Jessup International Moot Court. 1,2 Hour.
PR or CONC: LAW 768. A required course for students selected for the Jessup International Moot Court Competition Team that provides oral advocacy instruction and training for the current year's Jessup competition.
LAW 653. Law and Public Service. 1,2 Hour.
PR or CONC: LAW 654. A practical course in which selected student will serve as externs to public service and government agencies. Classroom instruction and reflective writing requirements are included.
LAW 654. Public Service Externship. 2-5 Hours.
LAW 655. Law and Public Service Full-Time. 2-6 Hours.
PR or CONC: LAW 656. A practical course in which selected students will serve as externs to public service and government agencies on a full-time basis. Classroom instruction and reflective writing requirements are included.
LAW 656. Law and Public Service Externship Full-Time. 6-11 Hours.
LAW 657. International Criminal Law. 1-3 Hours.
This course will cover the traditional areas of international criminal law and procedures, as well as international crimes and enforcement.
LAW 658. Science & Technology of Energy. 2-3 Hours.
This course provides an overview of the scientific principles and technology associated with the development of energy resources, as well as coverage of the procedures for handling scientific and technical testimony in legal proceedings.
LAW 659. Administrative Energy Law and Practice. 2 Hours.
A practical course designed to build skills in analysis, writing, research, and communication through energy-related administrative law scenarios. Students develop their professional identities, assess strengths and weaknesses, and confront moral and ethical challenges.
LAW 660. Law of Coal. 2-3 Hours.
An introduction to current legal issues relating to mineral conveyancing, and regulation of environmental and health and safety impacts of coal mining, reclamation of coal mines and coal combustion.
LAW 661. Forensic and Expert Evidence. 2-4 Hours.
A practical study of the appropriate usage of forensic and scientific evidence in court, effective direct and cross-examination of expert witnesses; drafting motions in limine specifically dealing with forensic evidence, scientific exhibits, or expert testimony. LAW 727 is recommended before taking this course.
LAW 662. Mine Safety & Health Law. 3 Hours.
Mine Safety and Health is a study of the laws, regulations, and court decisions impacting the mining industry, mine workers, and their families.
LAW 663. Renewable Energy & Alternative Fuels. 3 Hours.
This course examines the convergence of energy and environmental issues, and includes a review of renewable and low-carbon energy sources as well as the various incentives to encourage development of renewable energy and alternative fuels.
LAW 664. Multistate Performance Test Writing Workshop. 1-2 Hours.
Students will gain training in legal reasoning for law school exams, the bar exam, and legal practice, by focusing on the application of substantive law in the context of a Performance Test.
LAW 667. Multistate Bar Exam Skills Workshop. 2 Hours.
Provides in-depth training in the legal reasoning needed to successfully answer multiple-choice questions on the bar examination. Geared toward third-year students, and serves as a companion course to the Essay Writing Workshop.
LAW 668. Healthcare Fraud & Abuse. 3 Hours.
An examination of health care fraud and abuse laws from civil and criminal perspectives, with an emphasis on federal statutes, to include a review of governmental enforcement initiatives. Health care compliance programs for health care providers, fraud and abuse driven by Affordable Care Act changes, access to pharmaceuticals, quality of care, and patient abuse will be explored.
LAW 669. Scholarly Writing Workshop. 1 Hour.
PR: Students must be enrolled concurrently in a law school seminar of their choice. A course designed to help students develop scholarly writing skills and serves as a companion course to the seminar requirement. Emphasis is placed on identifying writing conventions specific to scholarly legal writing and on the scholarly writing process.
LAW 670. LLM Seminar. 1-4 Hours.
PR: LLM Major restriction. A wide range study related to the degree program, exploring diverse advanced topics and perspectives. Rigorous preparation for discussion, a writing project, and in-class presentations are required.
LAW 671. LL.M. Capstone. 1-4 Hours.
An advanced course requiring the completion of a research paper or fieldwork project in the area of energy and sustainable development in the LL.M. Program.
LAW 672. Social Media and the Law. 1 Hour.
A web-based course that will analyze foundational and current cases, building a base of knowledge to prepare students to serve future clients in this evolving aspect of law.
LAW 673. Seminar in Consumer Law Policy and Procedure. 2 Hours.
A seminar exploring the historic and modern underpinnings of consumer law and how those policy considerations have informed consumer law regulation and policy.
LAW 674. Environmental Law - Pollution. 3 Hours.
This course will provide students with a perspective of federal and state environmental regulatory regimes, common law claims and defenses commonly raised in response to environmental pollution, as well as legal strategies relating to air pollution, water pollution, toxic and hazardous waste issues.
LAW 675. Introduction to the Profession. 1 Hour.
Law students will engage in reflection about the legal profession, their professional identity, and what essential skills, habits, and traits are needed to succeed in the legal profession.
LAW 677. United States Supreme Court Clinic 1. 4 Hours.
A clinical course that provides students with both instruction and practice in written and oral advocacy in appellate matters with emphasis on those before the United States Supreme Court.
LAW 678. United States Supreme Court Clinic 2. 4 Hours.
PR: LAW 677. A continuation of US Supreme Court Clinic 1 with additional emphasis on working with the government in Supreme Court mattes and amicus curiae (friend of the court) briefs.
LAW 681. Cannabis Law. 2 Hours.
This course will provide a practical approach to hemp and marijuana law. It will provide an opportunity to understand the practice of law from initial client interview, to business creation, through regulatory compliance, banking, taxes and more.
LAW 682. Essay Writing Workshop 1. 1 Hour.
A bar review course focusing primarily on the Multistate Essay Exam (MEE); includes strategies for taking the Multistate Performance Test (MPT), Multistate Bar Exam (MBE), and Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE).
LAW 683. Essay Writing Workshop 2. 1 Hour.
PR or CONC: LAW 682. Open by invitation only, a one-hour extension of LAW 682 for students who would benefit from additional review and who must register for LAW 682 concurrently.
LAW 684. Bill Draft & Leg Process. 2 Hours.
This course explores the role of lawyers as bill drafters and advocates for legislative solutions to policy problems.
LAW 686. Civil Procedure. 4 Hours.
In this course, students will study judicial opinions, read rules of civil procedure, and engage in a number of civil procedure exercises. Class discussion will center on these areas.
LAW 687. Civil Procedure 2. 2 Hours.
An advanced civil procedure course designed to review first-year course topics, MDL, class actions, discovery in complex cases (including e-discovery), issue and claim preclusion (res judicata and collateral estoppel), securing and enforcing judgments, and appellate review. Also, is a course of interest for those considering litigation as a career and wish to understand rules that govern complex litigation practice.
LAW 688A. Seminar in American Constitutional History. 2 Hours.
A historical overview of American constitutional law from 1786 to present day, focusing on that part of history that still influences present-day constitutional law decision making.
LAW 688C. Seminar in Corporate Governance. 2,3 Hours.
This seminar provides students an in-depth look at current laws and policies that affect corporate governance and corporate accountability systems.
LAW 688E. Seminar in Human Rights & the Environment. 2 Hours.
An examination of the disparate impact of environmental decision-making on minorities relating to enforcement of environmental laws and siting of toxic chemical and hazardous waste disposal by industrial facilities.
LAW 688F. Seminar in Hydraulic Fracturing. 2-3 Hours.
An examination of the impacts of hydraulic fracturing in shale deposits in the U.S. and abroad, considering economic, environmental, and social issues and how those issue impact laws and regulations.
LAW 688H. Seminar in Firearms Law and Policy. 2 Hours.
A survey introduction to U.S. firearms law and policy as related to the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
LAW 688I. Seminar in Sexuality and the Law. 2 Hours.
An exploration of legal issues relating to human sexuality. Current controversies in legal theory will be addressed, as well as consent, privacy, power, and normalcy in gender issues.
LAW 688J. Seminar in Disability and the Law. 2 Hours.
A survey of key legal, ethical, and social issues in contemporary disability policy, including exploration of disability rights movement in the U.S. and how disability is defined within our legal and social system.
LAW 688K. Seminar in Schools, Race, & Money. 2-3 Hours.
The interrelationship of law and policy in the administration of U.S. elementary and secondary public education. Topics affecting most K-12 students will be: 1) structure, hierarch, and governance of public education; 2) desegregation and resegregation; 3) school finance, the constitutional right to adequate and equitable educations opportunities; and 4) issues beyond schools, race, and money that affect educational outcomes.
LAW 688L. Seminar: Opioid Litigation. 2 Hours.
Analysis of causes and responses to the nationwide opioid epidemic including applicable laws, regulations; tort litigation strategies of pharmaceutical, federal and state law enforcement; role of the media; and rights and remedies of state/local government and private litigants in Multi-District Opiate Litigation (“MDL”).
LAW 688M. Seminar: Domestic and International Terrorism. 2 Hours.
In this course, we will examine the term terrorism and the laws surrounding it. Topics of discussion and readings will include domestic terrorism prevention, national and state-level antiterrorism laws, international conventions on the prohibition of terrorism, and the definitions of terror and terrorism in international criminal law.
LAW 688N. Seminar: Health Care Civil Rights. 2 Hours.
This seminar examines the body of law that redresses discrimination in health care and will explore general civil rights as they apply in health care settings, as well as civil rights laws drafted specifically for health care. The course will cover access to health care facilities, rights to receive medical care, discrimination in the delivery of care and much more.
LAW 689A. Seminar: Intellectual Property. 2 Hours.
Considers the economic and social role of intellectual property laws in American and world economics. Preparation of a research paper of publishable quality will be required.
LAW 689F. Seminar: Lawyers and Legislation. 2 Hours.
Explores the role of lawyers in the legislative process with practical exercise in bill drafting and presentation to legislators.
LAW 689G. Seminar: Religion and Constitution. 2 Hours.
Explores the major doctrinal issues in the interpretation of the First Amendment's religion clauses. Related statutory schemes affecting religious liberty such as RFRA and RLUIPA will also be discussed.
LAW 689H. Seminar: Bioethics and the Law. 2 Hours.
An examination of the theological, philosophical and scientific foundations of bioethics; the operation of bioethical principles in the context of current bioethical controversies; and the relations between bioethics and the law.
LAW 689I. Seminar: Environmental Justice. 2 Hours.
A broad view of environmental justice issues and their impact on minorities and disempowered citizens and communities.
LAW 689K. Seminar: Civil Disobedience. 2 Hours.
An examination of the justification and operation of civil disobedience.
LAW 689M. Seminar: Race/Racism and American Law. 2 Hours.
This seminar focuses on historical and current event issues regarding race, racism and American law. It offers students the opportunity to advance in research and writing on the subject.
LAW 689P. Seminar: Gender and Law. 2 Hours.
The examination of the multiplicities of identity regarding the categories of gender, sex, sexual orientation, race and class as used to confer benefits and determine constitutional rights.
LAW 689R. Seminar in Commercial and Business Law. 2 Hours.
The examination of various topics relating to commercial, business, or construction (contracting, architecture, engineering) law. A substantial research paper is required.
LAW 689S. Seminar: Law and Socioeconomic. 2 Hours.
Advanced topics in the interrelationship between law and economic/social processes.
LAW 689T. Seminar:Comparative and International Workplace Law. 2 Hours.
Comparative analysis of workplace laws across global jurisdictions.
LAW 689W. Seminar:Issues in Energy Law. 2 Hours.
This seminar provides an understanding of a variety of issues regarding energy law and policy, both past and present, in the United States. A research paper on an energy law issue is required.
LAW 689X. Seminar: National Security Law. 2 Hours.
The history and framework of U.S. national security law and policies, with a focus on national security in the context of the use of military force, the intelligence community, civil liberties, and counterterrorism efforts.
LAW 689Y. Seminar in Sustainable Development. 2 Hours.
Consideration and further development of concepts and methods relating to sustainable development, including methods for incorporating consideration of economic development, environmental conservation, and social equity in decision-making at the regional, national and global level.
LAW 693. Special Topics. 1-6 Hours.
A study of contemporary topics selected from recent developments in the field.
LAW 694. Seminar. 1-6 Hours.
Special seminars arranged for advanced graduate students.
LAW 700. Legal Analysis, Research and Writing 1. 3 Hours.
Introduction to legal analysis, research, and writing. Stresses basic law school skills including case briefing, statutory analysis, and synthesis. Drafting of various legal documents including an office memorandum.
LAW 701. International Human Rights. 3 Hours.
An examination of historical, philosophical and legal issues in defining, understanding, and enforcing fundamental rights in a world of conflict and diversity.
LAW 703. Contracts 1. 4 Hours.
The study of operation of contracts in society, what it means to have a contract, how contracts are made, and the manner and extent to which contracts and non-contract promises will be enforced.
LAW 704. Contracts 2. 2 Hours.
PR: LAW 703. Examines express and implied conditions precedent, subsequent, and concurrent determining the order and quality of required contract performance, legal excuses for non-performance including mistake, impossibility, impracticability and frustration, and rights of third parties as contract beneficiaries or assignees.
LAW 705. Criminal Law. 3 Hours.
Substantive law of crimes including: (1) the philosophical basis for penal systems, (2) the characteristics of particular crimes, and (3) conditions of exculpation.
LAW 707. Property. 4 Hours.
Law of real property in historical and theoretical context. Includes estates in land and future interest, concurrent ownership, methods of obtaining title, modern land transactions, recording, title examination, and the law of servitudes.
LAW 708. Uganda Study Abroad. 3 Hours.
A study-abroad experience in Uganda focusing on sustainable development to involve service learning and participation with secondary school students on community projects. Economic and social needs will be addressed in a variety of settings.
LAW 709. Torts 1. 4 Hours.
The basic civil common law response to injury. The fault-based liability system for intentional torts, privileges, and negligence. Consideration of fact and proximate cause, joint tortfeasors, and limited duty.
LAW 710. Torts 2. 3 Hours.
PR: LAW 709. A continuation of Torts 1. The tort law of land occupiers, damages, defenses, imputed negligence, strict liability, products liability, and modern statutory substitutes for tort law.
LAW 711. Legal Analysis, Research and Writing 2. 2 Hours.
PR: LAW 700. Continuation of LAW 700. Stresses research and writing. Drafting of various legal documents culminating in the preparation of a trial motion and memorandum and oral argument of the motion.
LAW 712. Analytical Methods for Lawyers. 3 Hours.
An introduction and overview of game theory, probability statistics, finance, accounting and economics, as they relate to the practice of law. Beneficial to students without undergraduate degrees in business or economics.
LAW 713. Toxic Torts. 3 Hours.
PR:LAW 709. An in-depth study of the law of toxic torts in the context of environmental harms.
LAW 714. Remedies. 3 Hours.
Equity, damages, and restitution. Survey of remedies available for harms.
LAW 715. Appellate Advocacy. 2 Hours.
PR: LAW 700 and LAW 711. Survey of appellate practice. Drafting of an appellate brief and an argumentation of the brief.
LAW 716. Wealth Transfers. 3 Hours.
This course introduces the law of trusts and estates. It covers intestacy distributions, wills, trusts, non-probate transfers, and other associated subjects.
LAW 717. Domestic Violence and The Law. 3 Hours.
(LAW 769 is recommended.) The examination of civil and criminal statues and case law, as applied to domestic violence, focusing on national trends and West Virginia state law.
LAW 718. Advanced Bankruptcy. 3 Hours.
PR: LAW 767. The exploration of bankruptcy code complexities with emphasis on Chapter 11 reorganization.
LAW 719. Income Taxation 1. 3-4 Hours.
Gross income, deductions, exclusions, and gains and losses from dealing in property; the four credit version of the class includes administrative law concepts.
LAW 720. Entertainment Law. 3 Hours.
A foundation for the pursuit of a transactional or corporate law career in the entertainment industry. Includes the law contracts, copyright, trademark, and agent representation issues.
LAW 721. Sports Law. 3 Hours.
A foundation for the pursuit of a transactional or corporate law career in sports law. Includes the practical application of law of contracts and the process of negotiation.
LAW 723. Immigration Law. 2,3 Hours.
Constitutional underpinnings for immigration power; categories of and requirements for employment-based, family-based, and diversity-based immigration; visas for temporary visitation; problems with illegal immigration; removal procedures; and special policy issues, such as terrorism.
LAW 725. Constitutional Law 1. 3,4 Hours.
Basic study of the principles of constitutional decision making. Areas of emphasis include the allocation of power within the federal system, procedural and substantive due process, and equal protection of the law.
LAW 726. Constitutional Law 2. 3 Hours.
PR: LAW 725. First Amendment freedoms of speech, press, assembly, association, and petition.
LAW 727. Evidence. 3 Hours.
Rules, principles, and practice of the law of evidence covering judicial notice; real, demonstrative, testimonial and circumstantial evidence; hearsay; and other exclusionary rules, privileges, confidential relationships, witnesses, and other related subjects.
LAW 728. West Virginia Constitutional Law. 2 Hours.
A study of the West Virginia Constitution, its history, and its judicial interpretation with special emphasis on the branches of state government.
LAW 729. Business Organizations. 4 Hours.
Basic introduction to business organizations, their formation, maintenance, and dissolution. Includes agency, partnership, and corporations.
LAW 730. Immigration Law Clinic 1. 6-7 Hours.
Under the supervision of attorneys, students will work to represent clients in a variety of immigration proceedings and supplement case work with study of law and practice materials for the immigration practitioner.
LAW 731. Immigration Law Clinic 2. 6-7 Hours.
PR: LAW 730. A continuation of Immigration Law Clinic 1 (LAW 730). Students will continue to work under the supervision of attorneys to represent clients in a variety of immigration proceedings and supplement case work with study of law and practice materials for the immigration practitioner.
LAW 733. Education Law. 3 Hours.
A survey of major topics in education law with a focus on public primary and secondary education. The course includes consideration of both constitutional and statutory law affecting schools.
LAW 734. Intellectual Property. 3 Hours.
Legal problems in the protection of ideas including copyright, trademark, patent, and law of unfair competition; and their interrelationship.
LAW 735. Patent Law. 3,4 Hours.
The application and interpretation of patent law, including the requirements for obtaining a patent, infringement action, and other patent related law and policy.
LAW 736. Legal Estate Planning. 3 Hours.
PR: LAW 716. The law in its relation to problems of intergenerational transfers, including federal transfer taxes (estate and gift tax), life insurance, revocable and irrevocable trusts, wills, and the probate process.
LAW 737. Property 2. 2 Hours.
This class will focus on exploring common property issues that arise during the planning and development stages of energy projects and build upon the knowledge gained in your 1L Property class. This includes ownership interests, conveyance of property interests, easements, and leasing property for solar and oil/gas development. Emphasis will be placed on the interpretation and application of WV law.
LAW 738. Business Torts. 3 Hours.
The study of trademark, trade secrets, and unfair competition law, with a strong emphasis on the development of these doctrines in American law from both a statutory and common law perspective.
LAW 739. American Legal History. 3 Hours.
The study of American law from the colonial period to the present with emphasis on the jurisprudential, social, economic, political and cultural influences that have shaped the development of a distinctively American legal system.
LAW 740. Conflict of Laws. 3 Hours.
Legal problems arising when an occurrence cuts across state or national boundaries, emphasizing questions of characterization, jurisdiction, foreign judgments, recognition and application of foreign law in selected fields of law.
LAW 741. Employment Law. 3-4 Hours.
The course primarily focuses on federal and state regulations of the employee- employer relationships and may include: wrongful discharge, employee discrimination, wage/hour issues, and occupational safety and health.
LAW 742. Professional Responsibility. 3 Hours.
Professional responsibility in the administration of justice in society; Code of Professional Responsibility examined in light of traditional and changing demands of the legal system.
LAW 743. Patent Prosecution. 3 Hours.
PR: LAW 735. The study of all stages of patent prosecution, with an emphasis on claims drafting and amendment of claims. Prosecution study emphasizes drafting responses to official actions.
LAW 744. Law and Economics. 3 Hours.
Legal rules and institutions from perspective of economics; basic assumptions and principles with application to private law (contract, tort, nuisance, litigation) and public law (regulations, taxation, redistribution.).
LAW 745. Artificial Intelligence and the Law. 2,3 Hours.
This course will help familiarize law students with the basics of artificial intelligence, including machine learning and algorithmic decision making. Students will study ideas from computer science, data science, and philosophy. Students will learn about the important ways artificial intelligence is being used in the criminal justice sector, difficulties of arguing a machine, if algorithms can be biased and more.
LAW 746. Lawyers and Literature. 3 Hours.
A course of literary readings (emphasizing fiction and novels) that involve lawyers and focus on the theme of reflection and introspection.
LAW 747. Health Care Law. 3 Hours.
This introductory course in health care law includes state and federal regulation of the business of health care, system managed care, fraud and abuse, and health care transactions.
LAW 750. Alternative Dispute Resolution. 3 Hours.
A theoretical and practical examination of negotiation, court-annexed and private mediation and arbitration, summary jury and minitrials, and other alternative dispute resolution processes; an assessment of the appropriateness of ADR for particular legal disputes.
LAW 751. Empirical Legal Methods. 3 Hours.
A presentation of foundational core statistical concepts covering the substantive equivalent of a college-level introductory statistics course and exploring empirical legal policy issues through readings and class discussions. Will focus on mastering specific empirical issues in cases, policy proposals, legislation, and regulations. No mathematics above algebra required.
LAW 752. Jurisprudence. 3 Hours.
Introduction to legal philosophy. Major jurisprudential issues; definition of law, concept of justice, relation of law and morality considered in light of specific legal theories and contemporary issues.
LAW 753. Estate and Gift Taxation. 3 Hours.
Application of federal transfer taxes (estate and gift tax) and West Virginia inheritance tax; inter vivos transfers; joint interests; life insurance; valuation; exemptions, exclusions and deductions; marital deduction.
LAW 754. State and Local Taxation. 2,3 Hours.
Constitutional limitations; examination of specific taxes such as ad valorem, sales and use, business and occupation, and income taxes; tax exemptions; and tax procedure.
LAW 755. Partnership Tax. 2 Hours.
PR: LAW 719. The study of Partnership Tax with an emphasis on reading the appropriate sections of the Internal Revenue Code and applying them to various problems to instill in the students the fundamentals of partnership tax.
LAW 756. Trial Advocacy. 4 Hours.
PR: LAW 727. Introduction to techniques of, and moral and ethical questions associated with trial practice, jury selection, opening statement, direct and cross examination, closing argument. Lecture, discussion, and simulation.
LAW 757. Law Review 1. 1 Hour.
PR: Students in the College of Law. Legal research, writing, and editing involved in the production for publication of analytical and scholarly commentary on the law. (May be repeated for a maximum of 2 credit hours.).
LAW 758. Law Review 2. 1 Hour.
PR: LAW 757. (May be repeated for a maximum of 2 credit hours.) Continuation of LAW 757.
LAW 759. Civil Rights. 3 Hours.
Survey of federal civil rights and statutes; causes of action to vindicate constitutional rights and remedy discrimination; primary emphases on substance, procedures, and defenses under 42 U.S.C. 1983.
LAW 762. Federal Courts. 3 Hours.
Jurisdiction and procedure in federal courts. Federal question and diversity jurisdiction; removal jurisdiction and procedure; the law applied in federal courts, and procedural rules unique to the federal system.
LAW 763. Employment Discrimination. 3 Hours.
Survey of federal and state statutes prohibiting discrimination in employment practices on grounds of race, gender, national origin, religion, age, or disability.
LAW 764. Administrative Law. 3 Hours.
Creation and operation of administrative agencies, common procedural practices and requirements of administrative procedure acts, judicial control of administrative agencies.
LAW 765. ADR: Mediation Training. 1 Hour.
A practical, skills-based course where students actively participate in the mediation of civil cases in the Monongalia County Magistrate Court as student mediators. The student mediators will coordinate with court personnel to set schedules, work with involved parties to settle cases and explore mediation techniques for mediation sessions. No student mediator will serve as counsel the plaintiff or defendant.
LAW 766. Coal/Oil and Gas. 3 Hours.
Nature of ownership of subsurface minerals; methods of transferring ownership thereof, partition among co-owners, analysis of leasehold estates, and rights and duties thereunder, coal mining rights and privileges.
LAW 767. Bankruptcy: Creditors and Debtors Rights. 3 Hours.
Federal bankruptcy law including consumer and business liquidation in Chapter 7 and rehabilitation in Chapter 11 and Chapter 13. Actual preparation of filings and plans. Introductory coverage of state debtors in collecting debts and enforcing judgments.
LAW 768. International Law. 3 Hours.
The law governing the behavior of nations; overview of customary law, treaties, dispute resolution, armed conflict, and recent specific problems for the United States in the world community.
LAW 769. Family Law. 3 Hours.
The law in its relation to creation, stability, and breakdown of domestic relations including engagement, marriage, annulment, separation, divorce, alimony and child support, custody, and adoption (Based on national and West Virginia law.).
LAW 770. Insurance. 2 Hours.
A survey of the basic principles, rules, and issues from the formation of the insurance relationship including indemnity, protections afforded, claims, and payment.
LAW 771. Labor Law. 3 Hours.
Labor-management relations under the general jurisdiction of the National Labor Relations Board and the courts. Collective bargaining, administration, and enforcement of labor agreements and enforcement and protection of rights of employees, unions, and the public.
LAW 772. Consumer Law. 1-3 Hours.
Consumer Law studies the group of laws that protect the public at large from unfair and predatory business practices and unscrupulous ways of doing business, including product defects, privacy, debt collection, credit practices, unfair advertising, and a host of related issues.
LAW 774. Local Government. 2 Hours.
Distribution of governmental authority among local, state, and national governments; public office and employment, liability risks of local governmental action; taxing and budgeting.
LAW 775. Pre-trial Litigation. 3 Hours.
This course will immerse students in the daily work of civil litigators. Students will learn the procedural and substantive contours of litigating a hypothetical case from its inception through the eve of trial.
LAW 776. Sales and Secured Transactions. 4 Hours.
Functional approach designed to use the UCC for commercial and consumer problems. Focus on sale of goods, security interest in personal property, and Articles 1, 2, 6, and 9 of the UCC.
LAW 777. Health Care Torts. 3 Hours.
Introduction to legal issues that arise in the U.S. health care system relating mainly to patient care; emphasizing topics such as medical malpractice, informed consent, patient confidentiality, quality and accessibility of health care to patients.
LAW 778. Antitrust. 3 Hours.
Federal and state controls of vertical and horizontal integration and the legal limits upon the concentration of economic power in the United States.
LAW 779. Business Transactions Drafting. 4 Hours.
Focuses on the process and principles of drafting documents used in connection with various types of business arrangements. Such documents establish norms, or rules of expected behavior between the parties in the business context.
LAW 780. Federal Judicial Externship 1. 2-8 Hours.
PR: LAW 727 and PR or CONC: LAW 780A. Strongly recommended that students take LAW 618 and LAW 762 prior to enrolling in this course. A two-component, practical course in which selected students will serve as regular, full-time clerks to federal district court and appellate judges for one semester. Classroom instruction and writing requirements are included.
LAW 780A. Federal Judicial Externship 2. 6-11 Hours.
PR: LAW 727 and PR or CONC: LAW 780. Strongly recommended that students take LAW 618 and LAW 762 prior to enrolling in this course. The field work component of LAW 780.
LAW 781. Child and Family Advocacy Clinic 1. 7 Hours.
PR or CONC: LAW 727 and LAW 769. The first of a two-semester clinical course in which students represent clients in child and family law matters under faculty supervision. It includes two weekly classes with a requirement to visit Chestnut Ridge Hospital monthly as part of a medical- legal partnership and attend Judge Aloi’s drug court at least once. Students are expected to work 15-20 hours per week.
LAW 781A. Child and Family Advocacy Clinic 2. 7 Hours.
PR: LAW 781. The second semester of a two-semester clinical course in which students represent clients in child and family law matters under faculty supervision, including cases referred by WVU Student Conduct and through the medical-legal partnership with WVU Hospitals, Inc.
LAW 782. Legal Clinic 1. 7 Hours.
PR: LAW 706, LAW 722, and LAW 727. A clinical introduction to the arts and skills of lawyering. Students may represent clients and also engage in simulated practice exercises.
LAW 783. Legal Clinic 2. 7 Hours.
PR: LAW 782. A continuation of LAW 782. Students are given increased responsibilities for cases and will try a case in a simulated and/or actual trial setting.
LAW 784. Securities. 3 Hours.
Federal and state regulations of the distribution of and trading in securities, including the Blue-Sky Laws and federal acts.
LAW 786. Lugar Trial Advocacy. 1,2 Hour.
PR: LAW 727 and LAW 756 with a minimum grade of B- in each. An extensive lecture series and trial simulation program designed to provide opportunities for students to develop advanced litigation skills. Students must participate in six full-scale mock trials and one outside trial competition.
LAW 787. Intercollegiate Moot Court. 1,2 Hour.
Appellate brief writing and argumentation for members of intercollegiate moot court teams.
LAW 788. Interviewing, Counseling, and Negotiation. 3 Hours.
This course provides instruction in the lawyering skills involved in interviewing and client counseling as well as negotiation on a client's behalf. Simulations are employed to develop and enhance these practical lawyering skills.
LAW 789. Law of Environmental Protection. 3 Hours.
Problems of identifying and evaluating scientific evidence of air and water pollution; weighting the benefits of economic and technological progress against resulting harm to the quality of life; choice among alternative forms of litigation and public regulation as methods of social control.
LAW 791. Advanced Topics. 1-6 Hours.
PR: Consent. Investigation of advanced topics not covered in regularly scheduled courses.
LAW 792. Directed Study. 1-6 Hours.
Directed study, reading, and/or research.
LAW 793. . 1-6 Hours.
A study of contemporary topics selected from recent developments in the field.
LAW 795. Independent Study. 1-9 Hours.
Faculty supervised study of topics not available through regular course offerings.
LAW 797. Research. 1-9 Hours.
PR: Consent. Research activities leading to thesis, problem report, research paper or equivalent scholarly project, or a dissertation. (Grading may be S/U.).