Business Law (BLAW)

This course addresses the principles of professional argumentation and writing in the context of the business world and the legal services industry. First, students research and write an analytical legal memorandum. Second, students research and prepare a persuasive business proposal that advocates for one business acquisition over other potential targets. Finally, students learn important day-to-day professional analytical and drafting skills.

This course addresses public and private enforcement of U.S. securities laws and regulations from the Great Depression through today. The course provides an overview of the regulation of securities offerings and trading under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The course explores the disclosure obligations related to the registration, distribution and trading of investment securities. Related to these issues, the course addresses registration exemptions, disclosure of forward-looking information, insider trading and corporate control acquisitions. The course will also examine the role that the Securities Exchange Commission and private plaintiffs play in shaping these regulations.

Legal, financial and practical considerations in the creation, management and conservation of an estate. Includes trust principles and practices; various estate planning tools, including wills, trusts, life insurance and powers of appointment; and pertinent income, estate and gift provisions.

A study of white collar crime in America, a unique type of criminal activity that primarily affects businesses. The course explores the substance of white collar crime and focuses on the unique elements of various crimes through the study of actual cases. The course also examines how white collar crimes are prosecuted and defended in state and federal courts. Students are introduced to federal and state criminal procedure, substantive defenses, and the use of sentencing guidelines.

A study of the law of contracts, Article Two of the Uniform Commercial Code, product liability, legal liability of accountants, secured transactions and bankruptcy, with emphasis on the role these play in professional and personal decision making. The courts, the legislature and the interaction of these two branches of government in responding to a changing society are studied throughout.

A study of Article Three of the Uniform Commercial Code, agency, partnerships, corporations, securities regulations, real property, trusts and decedents estates with emphasis on the role these play in professional and personal decision making.

Survey of legal implications of international business dealings including foreign direct sales, distributorship arrangements, licensing of technology and legal aspects of the multi-national corporation. The foreign legal environment, relevant conventions and trade regulations, and the transnational reach of regulatory law will be considered.

This course is designed to allow explorations of areas of current topics in business law. Course content will vary by semester and instructor. For current content, consult the advisor.