Course Description

An introduction to the American judicial system designed specifically to provide future journalists with the knowledge to accurately and responsibly report on legal issues.

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Athena Title

Covering the Courts

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Semester Course Offered

Offered fall and spring

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Grading System

A - F (Traditional)

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Course Objectives

This course aims to demystify the court system and to give journalists the tools they need to cover the courts effectively. Students will: (1) become familiar with the structure and procedure of the American legal system, (2) think critically about the complex issues involved in legal reporting, and (3) gain an understanding of the best practices for professional and ethical reporting on legal issues.

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Topical Outline

Overview of the courts place in the state and federal government; Structure of the United States judicial system; Legal processes and vocabulary; Recognizing a newsworthy legal development; Strategies for effective reporting on legal issues; Ethical challenges in reporting on the court system.

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