Details

The course, like the casebook, is designed for the generalist in state and local government law rather than for the practitioner in municipal law. Particular emphasis is placed on state and state-related constitutional law. The course explores an essentially structural approach to intergovernmental relations, analyzing the tri-partite distribution of powers both vertically and horizontally--the federal-state-local levels of government and their interrelationship; the legislative-executive-judicial branches of government and their interaction. The objective is to identify and begin to understand the kinds of issues that arise as a result of the exercise of state and local government powers in a federal system and how those issues are resolved, and the participants in the process-who they are and how they play their roles. The course will cover such areas as local government powers, incorporation and annexation, interlocal conflicts, state and local finances, theories of governmental liability, school finance, reapportionment and voting rights, forms of access to the courts to challenge governmental actions, etc. Evaluation: There will be a written exam. Grades will be based upon exam, attendance and class participation. Attendance is expected. Teaching method: Lecture and discussion Text: Prerequisites: