Introduction to Law: Justice and the Legal System

Taught by Summer Discovery expert instructors, join your peers for this introduction to the American legal system and explore the foundational concepts of law. Designed for curious learners interested in justice, government, or debate, or exploring a career as a legal professional, this course explores the structure of the U.S. legal system, the Constitution, and landmark Supreme Court cases and the way they have impacted our society. Students will engage in simulation activities such as mock trials, legal debates, contract simulations, and critical analysis of real-world case studies. They'll learn how laws are created and interpreted, explore the rights and responsibilities of citizens and the importance of civic engagement, and consider the ethical dimensions of legal practice. Whether students aspire to become lawyers, researchers, activists, policymakers, or simply informed citizens, this course provides a solid foundation in legal reasoning and the critical role that the rule of law plays in democratic society.

Example Activities:

• Participate in a mock trial in alternating roles as an attorney, witness, or juror
• Analyze and debate landmark Supreme Court decisions
• Create a “Know Your Rights” campaign on civil liberties
• Draft and negotiate a basic contract
• Possible guest speaker opportunities with a legal professional (in-person or virtually)

Final Project Assignment:

For the final project, students will select a real-world case study and present their findings in a written report or multimedia presentation, highlighting the legal issues at stake, relevant court precedents, and the broader implications for American democracy. By completing this assignment, students will deepen their understanding of the U.S. legal system, improve their ability to think critically about legal reasoning, and gain insight into how media and law intersect in shaping public perception and civic engagement.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Explain the basic structure and functions of the U.S. legal system, including the roles of local, state, and federal courts.
2. Analyze historical and recent landmark legal cases and understand their impact on American society and constitutional rights.
3. Demonstrate basic legal reasoning, including argumentation, evidence evaluation, and case analysis.
4. Participate in legal simulations such as mock trials and debates, applying legal vocabulary and procedure.
5. Understand the ethical and societal importance of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.

Information subject to change as instructors finalize course syllabi.