LGS 100 - Introduction to the Law

3 credit hours - Three hours weekly; one term.
This course meets the Social & Behavioral Sciences General Education Requirement.

Survey topics and skills related to law and jurisprudence. Analyze the history and development of the law and describe how the law affects individuals, government, and businesses in today’s society. Discuss constitutional law principles, judicial decision-making, the state and federal court systems. Examine substantive criminal law, family law, contracts, torts, property, and procedural law.

Prerequisite(s): Eligibility for ENG 101 /ENG 101A .

Note: Not available to paralegal or law and jurisprudence majors to fulfill a required or elective course. Typically offered at MC and OL; fall and spring terms.

Course Outcomes:

Explain the meaning of law and its function in society, and the principal sources of legal authority.
Describe the development of the American legal system, as well as principal historical and modern philosophies of law.
Define basic legal terminology.
Describe the structure and function of Maryland and federal courts.
Differentiate between civil and criminal law, procedural and substantive law, and different legal remedies.
Analyze statutes and judicial opinions to prepare case briefs and other legal writing.
Describe the nature of, and general legal rules concerning, constitutional law, torts, contracts, and criminal law.