Course Schedule

This course will explore the theoretical and practical problems involved in the concept, types, venues and strategies of international human rights litigation. It takes a critical look at international human rights litigation to hold States accountable before regional bodies (the European Court of Human Rights, the Inter-American Commission and Court, the African Commission and Court of Human and Peoples Rights) and universal mechanisms (the treaty body and special mechanisms of the United Nations). The course examines the steps involved in litigation, such as case selection, client care, and forum choice, as well as the specific legal stages and requirements such as admissibility, exhaustion of domestic remedies, evidentiary rules and merits arguments. The course will evaluate the process of litigation before these bodies and their jurisprudence, as well as their role in promoting (or undermining) justice. Case studies will examine how to build a strong evidential record in support of the case, how to develop campaigning and advocacy to raise awareness of the issues involved, and how to implement a successful judgment. The course places litigation in its social and institutional context exploring issues of its legitimacy, as well as the ethics and accountability of human rights lawyering. The course relies on examples from various jurisdictions in the world illustrating the possibilities and limitations of international human rights litigation in theory and practice.

Assets of foreign investors in host countries are vulnerable to actions by the host government. The wave of nationalizations in Venezuela and Ecuador are examples of how regime or governmental changes affect these investments. These acts have triggered the recent rise in investor-state arbitration with tens of billions of dollars in claims against host governments at stake. In the 20th Century, claims against states began with the Soviet nationalizations following the Russian Revolution, through the Mexican nationalizations in the early part of the 20th Century, and to the current day. Until relatively recently, claims were brought under direct contracts or arrangements with States. Today, the majority of these claims arise within a network of treaties that protect investors against the political risk of improper actions by host governments. This network includes multilateral treaties trade and investment treaties like the North American Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”), the Energy Charter Treaty, over 2,700 bilateral investment treaties (“BITs”), and the Washington (or ICSID) Convention. The treaties protect against expropriation, unfair treatment, and discrimination. Procedural protections include arbitration against the State itself, outside the host country. Most recently, the Argentine economic crisis of 2001-2001 led to claims based on the government’s actions in response. Beyond economic crises, host governments will sometimes seek to change the terms of the foreign investor’s deal when commodity prices change. This has occurred in recent years with special frequency in the energy sectors. Bolivia announced nationalizations of foreigners’ oil and gas interests there. Venezuela has taken over foreign companies’ oil and gas projects as well as foreign-owned banks. Ecuador took similar actions against foreign investors. Indeed, Argentina made world headlines this year in expropriating the interest of a Spanish company, after significant unconventional oil and gas was discovered in that country. In short, the front page of any international newspaper daily recounts such acts and political changes that may presage such moves. Investor-state arbitration has had an obvious impact on foreign governments. As governments contemplate policies, they are concerned because they can now be sued, directly, by foreign investors. Awards are paid from the national treasury. Many states have begun to question the wisdom of the entire investment protection scheme as it is currently configured, and they have begun to curtail their commitments in investment-protection treaties. The course will therefore address the inevitable political, economic, and policy questions raised by this significant cession of sovereignty to private actors. The course will introduce students to investor-state arbitration. With a brief introduction of cases that arise from contracts, the course will then turn to the network of treaty protection and its practical implementation. Students will be taken through the identical arbitration process as that experienced by investors in some of the most important cases in recent years. Core materials for this course include the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development and arbitral awards involving claims against foreign governments. To provide the business background of energy deals, guest speakers from major international companies will clarify the real stakes of this emerging area of international arbitration. Assessment will be based on class participation and a final exam.

Assets of foreign investors in host countries are vulnerable to actions by the host government. The wave of nationalizations in Venezuela and Ecuador are examples of how regime or governmental changes affect these investments. These acts have triggered the recent rise in investor-state arbitration with tens of billions of dollars in claims against host governments at stake. In the 20th Century, claims against states began with the Soviet nationalizations following the Russian Revolution, through the Mexican nationalizations in the early part of the 20th Century, and to the current day. Until relatively recently, claims were brought under direct contracts or arrangements with States. Today, the majority of these claims arise within a network of treaties that protect investors against the political risk of improper actions by host governments. This network includes multilateral treaties trade and investment treaties like the North American Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”), the Energy Charter Treaty, over 2,700 bilateral investment treaties (“BITs”), and the Washington (or ICSID) Convention. The treaties protect against expropriation, unfair treatment, and discrimination. Procedural protections include arbitration against the State itself, outside the host country. Most recently, the Argentine economic crisis of 2001-2001 led to claims based on the government’s actions in response. Beyond economic crises, host governments will sometimes seek to change the terms of the foreign investor’s deal when commodity prices change. This has occurred in recent years with special frequency in the energy sectors. Bolivia announced nationalizations of foreigners’ oil and gas interests there. Venezuela has taken over foreign companies’ oil and gas projects as well as foreign-owned banks. Ecuador took similar actions against foreign investors. Indeed, Argentina made world headlines this year in expropriating the interest of a Spanish company, after significant unconventional oil and gas was discovered in that country. In short, the front page of any international newspaper daily recounts such acts and political changes that may presage such moves. Investor-state arbitration has had an obvious impact on foreign governments. As governments contemplate policies, they are concerned because they can now be sued, directly, by foreign investors. Awards are paid from the national treasury. Many states have begun to question the wisdom of the entire investment protection scheme as it is currently configured, and they have begun to curtail their commitments in investment-protection treaties. The course will therefore address the inevitable political, economic, and policy questions raised by this significant cession of sovereignty to private actors. The course will introduce students to investor-state arbitration. With a brief introduction of cases that arise from contracts, the course will then turn to the network of treaty protection and its practical implementation. Students will be taken through the identical arbitration process as that experienced by investors in some of the most important cases in recent years. Core materials for this course include the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development and arbitral awards involving claims against foreign governments. To provide the business background of energy deals, guest speakers from major international companies will clarify the real stakes of this emerging area of international arbitration. Assessment will be based on class participation and a final exam.

Course content and description: International Petroleum Transactions considers the legal issues and transactions relating to the exploration, production, and marketing of petroleum—the most important commodity traded worldwide and hence the most politically charged. Coverage includes how countries establish and allocate sovereignty over petroleum, how countries settle competing claims to oil and gas reserves, how host governments or state-owned oil companies contract with private companies to explore and develop oil and gas resources, how companies contract with each other to share risk, how companies contract with drilling contractors and services providers; how petroleum is marketed; and how disputes are resolved. The course offers a unique mix of both public and international private law.

Professor's goals: Help students develop better analytical skills--especially the ability to critically evaluate contracts and host government law. Help students gain a basic understanding of how crude oil and gas are exploited and marketed worldwide. Help students learn about the unique aspects of acquiring valid exploration and development rights in a foreign country, about pursuing those rights, and the legal ramifications of, and risks associated with, an upstream petroleum investment in a foreign country.

Prerequisites, co-requisites, and sequencing: None.

Materials: Anderson, Weaver et al., International Petroleum Transactions (RMMLF [FNREL] 2020). Additional materials will be posted on Canvas.

Course content and description: International Petroleum Transactions considers the legal issues and transactions relating to the exploration, production, and marketing of petroleum—the most important commodity traded worldwide and hence the most politically charged. Coverage includes how countries establish and allocate sovereignty over petroleum, how countries settle competing claims to oil and gas reserves, how host governments or state-owned oil companies contract with private companies to explore and develop oil and gas resources, how companies contract with each other to share risk, how companies contract with drilling contractors and services providers; how petroleum is marketed; and how disputes are resolved. The course offers a unique mix of both public and international private law.

Professor's goals: Help students develop better analytical skills--especially the ability to critically evaluate contracts and host government law. Help students gain a basic understanding of how crude oil and gas are exploited and marketed worldwide. Help students learn about the unique aspects of acquiring valid exploration and development rights in a foreign country, about pursuing those rights, and the legal ramifications of, and risks associated with, an upstream petroleum investment in a foreign country.

Prerequisites, co-requisites, and sequencing: None.

Course requirements: Regular class attendance, class preparation, and participation (including thoughtful responses to questions posed).

Materials: Anderson, Weaver et al., International Petroleum Transactions (RMMLF [FNREL] 2020). Additiona materials will be posted on Canvas.

Course content and description: International Petroleum Transactions considers the legal issues and transactions relating to the exploration, production, and marketing of petroleum—the most important commodity traded worldwide and hence the most politically charged. Coverage includes how countries establish and allocate sovereignty over petroleum, how countries settle competing claims to oil and gas reserves, how host governments or state-owned oil companies contract with private companies to explore and develop oil and gas resources, how companies contract with each other to share risk, how companies contract with drilling contractors and service providers; how petroleum is marketed; and how disputes are resolved.

Professor's goals: Help students develop better analytical skills--especially the ability to critically evaluate contracts and host government law. Help students gain a basic understanding of how crude oil and gas are exploited and marketed worldwide. Help students learn about the unique aspects of acquiring exploration and development rights in a foreign country, about pursuing those rights, and the legal ramifications of how exploiting parties realizes a return on this type of foreign investment.

Prerequisites, co-requisites, and sequencing: None—although students who have taken other oil and gas classes may be slightly advantaged over those who have not.

Course requirements: Regular class attendance, class preparation, and participation (including thoughtful responses to questions posed).

Materials: Anderson et al., International Petroleum Transactions (RMMLF 2020. Additiona materials will be posted on Canvas.

Course content and description: International Petroleum Transactions considers the legal issues and transactions relating to the exploration, production, and marketing of petroleum—the most important commodity traded worldwide and hence the most politically charged. Coverage includes how countries establish and allocate sovereignty over petroleum, how countries settle competing claims to oil and gas reserves, how host governments or state-owned oil companies contract with private companies to explore and develop oil and gas resources, how companies contract with each other to share risk, how companies contract with drilling contractors and service providers; how petroleum is marketed; and how disputes are resolved.

Professor's goals: Help students develop better analytical skills--especially the ability to critically evaluate contracts and host government law. Help students gain a basic understanding of how crude oil and gas are exploited and marketed worldwide. Help students learn about the unique aspects of acquiring exploration and development rights in a foreign country, about pursuing those rights, and the legal ramifications of how exploiting parties realizes a return on this type of foreign investment.

Prerequisites, co-requisites, and sequencing: None—although students who have taken other oil and gas classes may be slightly advantaged over those who have not.

Course requirements: Regular class attendance, class preparation, and participation (including thoughtful responses to questions posed).

Materials: All materials will be furnished to the students electronically at no cost to students!

This course examines the U.S. income tax laws and policies relating to the taxation of foreign persons' investment or business activities in the United States ("inbound") and U.S. persons' direct or indirect investment or business activities in other countries ("outbound"). After an introductory overview, it addresses the taxation of inbound activities, covering, principally, the topics of residence, the source of income and deductions, the taxation of investment activities (including portfolio investment and real estate investment), and the taxation of U.S. business activities of foreign persons. The subsequent consideration of the taxation of outbound activities concentrates primarily on the foreign tax credit system, the 100% deduction for certain foreign-source dividends received by a U.S. corporation from a foreign corporation, and the various anti-deferral regimes (principally the rules for Subpart F income and global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI")) that apply to certain U.S. shareholders of foreign corporations. Throughout, the course examines the relevant U.S. domestic law and treaty provisions. Because class enrollment is limited to 14 students, the Law School's grading curve will not apply (except that A+ grades are limited to no more than 6% of the students in the course, rounded up to the next whole number, meaning that only 1 A+ is allowed in the course). 

Prerequisite: Federal Income Tax

Required Textbooks:

(1) Robert J. Peroni, Karen Brown & J. Clifton Fleming, Jr., Taxation of International Transactions: Materials, Text, and Problems (5th ed. 2021) 

(2) International Income Taxation—Code & Regulations—Selected Sections, Robert J. Peroni, Coordinating Editor (Wolters Kluwer/CCH, 2023-2024 edition)

Recommended Textbooks (Optional):

(1)  Mindy Herzfeld, International Taxation in a Nutshell (West Academic, 13th edition, 2023)

(2) Joseph Isenbergh & Bret Wells, International Taxation (West Academic/Foundation Press, 2022 edition) (Concepts and Insights Series)

This course examines the U.S. income tax laws and policies relating to the taxation of foreign persons' investment or business activities in the United States ("inbound") and U.S. persons' direct or indirect investment or business activities in other countries ("outbound"). After an introductory overview, it addresses the taxation of inbound activities, covering, principally, the topics of residence, the source of income and deductions, the taxation of investment activities (including portfolio investment and real estate investment), and the taxation of U.S. business activities of foreign persons. The subsequent consideration of the taxation of outbound activities concentrates primarily on the foreign tax credit system, the 100% deduction for certain foreign-source dividends received by a U.S. corporation from a foreign corporation, and the various anti-deferral regimes (principally the rules for Subpart F income and global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI")) that apply to certain U.S. shareholders of foreign corporations. Throughout, the course examines the relevant U.S. domestic law and treaty provisions. Because class enrollment is limited to 14 students, the Law School's grading curve will not apply (except that A+ grades are limited to no more than 6% of the students in the course, rounded up to the next whole number, meaning that only 1 A+ is allowed in the course). 

Prerequisite: Federal Income Tax

Required Textbooks:

(1) Robert J. Peroni, Karen Brown & J. Clifton Fleming, Jr., Taxation of International Transactions: Materials, Text, and Problems (5th ed. 2021) 

(2) International Income Taxation—Code & Regulations—Selected Sections, Robert J. Peroni, Coordinating Editor (Wolters Kluwer/CCH, 2024-2025 edition)

Recommended Textbooks (Optional):

(1)  Mindy Herzfeld, International Taxation in a Nutshell (West Academic, 13th edition, 2023)

(2) Joseph Isenbergh & Bret Wells, International Taxation (West Academic/Foundation Press, 2022 edition) (Concepts and Insights Series)

This course examines the U.S. income tax laws and policies relating to the taxation of foreign persons' investment or business activities in the United States ("inbound") and U.S. persons' direct or indirect investment or business activities in other countries ("outbound"). After an introductory overview, it addresses the taxation of inbound activities, covering, principally, the topics of residence, the source of income and deductions, the taxation of investment activities (including portfolio investment and real estate investment), and the taxation of U.S. business activities of foreign persons. The subsequent consideration of the taxation of outbound activities concentrates primarily on the foreign tax credit system, the 100% deduction for certain foreign-source dividends received by a U.S. corporation from a foreign corporation, and the various anti-deferral regimes (principally the rules for Subpart F income and global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI")) that apply to certain U.S. shareholders of foreign corporations. Throughout, the course examines the relevant U.S. domestic law and treaty provisions. Because class enrollment is limited to 14 students, the Law School's grading curve will not apply (except that A+ grades are limited to no more than 6% of the students in the course, rounded up to the next whole number, meaning that only 1 A+ is allowed in the course). 

Prerequisite: Federal Income Tax

Required Textbooks:

(1) Robert J. Peroni, Karen Brown & J. Clifton Fleming, Jr., Taxation of International Transactions: Materials, Text, and Problems (5th ed. 2021) 

(2) International Income Taxation—Code & Regulations—Selected Sections, Robert J. Peroni, Coordinating Editor (Wolters Kluwer/CCH, 2023-2024 edition)

Recommended Textbooks (Optional):

(1)  Mindy Herzfeld, International Taxation in a Nutshell (West Academic, 13th edition, 2023)

(2) Joseph Isenbergh & Bret Wells, International Taxation (West Academic/Foundation Press, 2022 edition) (Concepts and Insights Series)

This course examines the U.S. income tax laws and policies relating to the taxation of foreign persons' investment or business activities in the United States ("inbound") and U.S. persons' direct or indirect investment or business activities in other countries ("outbound"). After an introductory overview, it addresses the taxation of inbound activities, covering, principally, the topics of residence, the source of income and deductions, the taxation of investment activities (including portfolio investment and real estate investment), and the taxation of U.S. business activities of foreign persons. The subsequent consideration of the taxation of outbound activities concentrates primarily on the foreign tax credit system, the 100% deduction for certain foreign-source dividends received by a U.S. corporation from a foreign corporation, and the various anti-deferral regimes (principally the rules for Subpart F income and global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI")) that apply to certain U.S. shareholders of foreign corporations. Throughout, the course examines the relevant U.S. domestic law and treaty provisions. If class enrollment is more than 9 students but fewer than 21 students, the grade for the course will be based 50 percent on a final examination and 50 percent on a tax policy paper, and the curve will not apply. If class enrollment is under 10 students, the grade will be based entirely on a final examination and the curve will not apply.  Prerequisite: Federal Income Tax

Required Textbooks:

(1) Robert J. Peroni, Karen Brown & J. Clifton Fleming, Jr., Taxation of International Transactions: Materials, Text, and Problems (5th ed. 2021) 

(2) International Income Taxation—Code & Regulations—Selected Sections, Robert J. Peroni, Coordinating Editor (Wolters Kluwer/CCH, 2022 edition)

Recommended Textbooks (Optional):

(1)  Mindy Herzfeld, International Taxation in a Nutshell (West Academic, 12th edition)

(2) Joseph Isenbergh & Bret Wells, International Taxation (West Academic/Foundation Press, 2022 edition) (Concepts and Insights Series)

This course examines the U.S. income tax laws and policies relating to the taxation of foreign persons' investment or business activities in the United States ("inbound") and U.S. persons' direct or indirect investment or business activities in other countries ("outbound"). After an introductory overview, it addresses the taxation of inbound activities, covering, principally, the topics of residence, the source of income and deductions, the taxation of investment activities (including portfolio investment and real estate investment), and the taxation of U.S. business activities of foreign persons. The subsequent consideration of the taxation of outbound activities concentrates primarily on the foreign tax credit system, the 100% deduction for certain foreign-source dividends received by a U.S. corporation from a foreign corporation, and the various anti-deferral regimes (principally the rules for Subpart F income and global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI")) that apply to certain U.S. shareholders of foreign corporations. Throughout, the course examines the relevant U.S. domestic law and treaty provisions. If class enrollment is more than 9 students but fewer than 21 students, the grade for the course will be based 50 percent on a final examination and 50 percent on a tax policy paper, and the curve will not apply. If class enrollment is under 10 students, the grade will be based entirely on a final examination and the curve will not apply.  Prerequisite: Federal Income Tax

Required Textbooks:

(1) Robert J. Peroni, Karen Brown & J. Clifton Fleming, Jr., Taxation of International Transactions: Materials, Text, and Problems (5th ed. 2021) —will be published in early to mid July 2021—new edition must be ordered

(2) International Income Taxation—Code & Regulations—Selected Sections, Robert J. Peroni, Coordinating Editor (Wolters Kluwer/CCH 2021-2022 ed.)—will be published in early to mid July 2021—new edition must be ordered

Recommended Textbooks (Optional);

(1)  Mindy Herzfeld, International Taxation in a Nutshell (12th ed. 2020)—ISBN 978-1-68467-346-9

(2) Joseph Isenbergh & Bret Wells, International Taxation (West Academic/Foundation Press 4th ed. 2020) (Concepts and Insights Series)—ISBN 9781684673636

This is a law school course that prepares students to: (1) understand the core legal frameworks that govern the Internet (whether drafted with or without consideration of the Internet); and (2) issue-spot and provide pragmatic advice to technology clients on key digital legal issues.

This is a law school course that prepares students to: (1) understand the core legal frameworks that govern the Internet (whether drafted with or without consideration of the Internet); (2) gain general familiarity with technical concepts such as code, algorithms, open-source and protocols; and (3) provide pragmatic advice to technology clients on key digital legal issues. When possible, Eric will bring in guest speakers and guest lecturers with unique experience and insights to share with the class.

Textbook: Internet Law Cases and Materials (Grimmelmann) - 14th Edition - available at:    https://internetcasebook.com

This introductory course examines the policies, laws and regulations applicable to important and controversial industry segments of the United States – the Internet and telecommunications. The survey course will cover wireline, wireless (e.g., 5G), cable, video, satellite, Internet and broadband technologies/services. The course will review how these exciting, dynamic platforms are converging. This study will begin with a review historical telecommunication (and broadcast) regulatory policy such as Universal Service that shaped the early industry. The course will discuss how these past regulatory approaches are intertwined with current policy debates such as Net Neutrality, Privacy and rural broadband. Topics will include the Communications Act of 1934 and the Telecommunications Act of 1996. This course will also address important subjects such as divestiture, mergers/acquistions (e.g., Twitter), scope of regulatory treatment, the “public interest” standard, “ancillary jurisdiction,” "Chevron deference" and use of valuable spectrum policies. Key terms and characteristics of the different modes of communication will be discussed. Interesting and current topics such as technological convergence, the impact of Covid on this area, “permissionless innovation” and how to address the growth and power of social media (and providers) will be discussed. The course will conclude with a look towards the future of regulation in these areas and what changes, if any, to related laws may be warranted (e.g., if and how should Section 230 of the Telecom Act be amended). A review of what has been deemed to be “acceptable and harmful” content on various platforms will be explored. Discussions will include the "Metaverse/virtual reality" and what should be associated regulations, if any.

 One goal of the course is to introduce students to important policy and legal concepts and issues in industries and highlight the technology that impacts their daily lives (e.g., use of smartphones and the Internet of Things). In addition, perhaps the course will reveal an area of possible career interest whether it be in the government, industry, consumer or private practice arenas.

This introductory course examines the policies, laws and regulations applicable to important and controversial industry segments of the United States – the Internet and telecommunications. The survey course will cover wireline, wireless (e.g., 5G), cable, video, satellite, Internet and broadband technologies/services. The course will review how these exciting, dynamic platforms are converging. This study will begin with a review historical telecommunication (and broadcast) regulatory policy such as Universal Service that shaped the early industry. The course will discuss how these past regulatory approaches are intertwined with current policy debates such as Net Neutrality, Privacy and rural broadband. Topics will include the Communications Act of 1934 and the Telecommunications Act of 1996. This course will also address important subjects such as divestiture, mergers, scope of regulatory treatment, the “public interest” standard, “ancillary jurisdiction,” and use of valuable spectrum policies. Key terms and characteristics of the different modes of communication will be discussed. Interesting and current topics such as technological convergence, the impact of Covid on this area, “permissionless innovation” and how to address the growth and power of social media (and providers) will be discussed. The course will conclude with a look towards the future of regulation in these areas and what changes, if any, to related laws may be warranted in the future (e.g., if and how should Section 230 of the Telecom Act be amended). A review of what has been deemed to be “acceptable and harmful” content on various platforms will be explored.

 One goal of the course is to introduce students to important policy and legal concepts and issues in industries and highlight the technology that impacts their daily lives (e.g., use of smartphones and the Internet of Things). In addition, perhaps the course will reveal an area of possible career interest whether it be in the government, industry, consumer or private practice arenas.

Dive into the fascinating world where technology, law, and policy intersect! This introductory course takes a deep look at the policies, laws, and regulations shaping two of the most influential and controversial sectors in the U.S. — the Internet and telecommunications. We’ll explore the full spectrum of communication technologies, from wireline and wireless (like 5G), to cable, satellite, video, broadband, and the Internet itself. You’ll discover how these cutting-edge platforms are converging, creating new challenges and opportunities for the legal and regulatory landscape.

We begin with a historical overview, unpacking pivotal regulations like Universal Service, which helped shape the telecommunications industry. From there, we’ll tackle antitrust issues, the First Amendment, and how legal battles of the past inform today's hot-button debates on Net Neutrality, Privacy, and rural broadband. You’ll delve into landmark legislation such as the Communications Act of 1934 and the Telecommunications Act of 1996, and explore critical concepts like common carriage, mergers and acquisitions, "public interest" standard, Chevron deference developments, and spectrum policy.

But this course isn’t just about the past. We’ll also engage with current and emerging topics that are transforming the way we communicate and regulate. From technological convergence to the power of social media we’ll discuss how the legal system is (or isn’t) keeping pace with innovation. Expect thought-provoking discussions on “permissionless innovation,” Section 230, and whether new laws are needed to address algorithms, artificial intelligence and virtual reality.

This course will not only introduce you to the key legal frameworks that shape the digital and telecommunications landscape but also encourage you to think critically about the technologies you use every day, from smartphones to the Internet of Things. Who knows — it may even spark an interest in a career within government, private practice, or industry, where you could shape the future of these dynamic sectors.

This introductory course examines the policies, laws and regulations applicable to important and controversial industry segments of the United States – the Internet and telecommunications. The survey course will cover wireline, wireless (e.g., 5G), cable, video, satellite, Internet and broadband technologies/services. The course will review how these exciting, dynamic platforms are converging. This study will begin with a review historical telecommunication regulatory policy such as Universal Service that shaped the early industry. The course will cover antitrust and First Amendment basics as they relate to past and current debates in this area. The course will discuss how these past regulatory approaches to address monopolies and competition are intertwined with current policy debates such as Net Neutrality, Privacy and rural broadband. Topics will include the Communications Act of 1934 and the Telecommunications Act of 1996. This course will also address important subjects such as common carriage, divestiture, mergers/acquistions, scope of regulatory treatment, the “public interest” standard, “ancillary jurisdiction,” "Chevron deference" and use of valuable spectrum policies. Key terms and characteristics of the different modes of communication will be discussed. Interesting and current topics such as technological convergence, the impact of Covid on this area, “permissionless innovation” and how to address the growth and power of social media (and providers) will be discussed. The course will conclude with a look towards the future of regulation in these areas and what changes, if any, to related laws may be warranted (e.g., if and how should Section 230 of the Telecom Act be amended). A review of what has been deemed to be “acceptable and harmful” content on various platforms will be explored. Discussions will include the "Metaverse/virtual reality" and artificial intelligence and what should be associated regulations, if any.

One goal of the course is to introduce students to important policy and legal concepts and issues in industries and highlight the technology that impacts their daily lives (e.g., use of smartphones and the Internet of Things). In addition, perhaps the course will reveal an area of possible career interest whether it be in the government, industry, consumer or private practice arenas.

The corporate counsel internship course has two components: (1) a weekly class, and (2) an internship with a corporation or business that involves delivering in-house legal services and performing other law-related tasks under the supervision of an experienced lawyer employed by the organization. Students engage in legal work on substantive issues commonly encountered by in-house counsel, gaining hands-on experience that they reflect upon and analyze in class through discussions, presentations, exercises, and real-world case studies. Assignments address topics relevant to the legal profession and professional identity, including ethics and advocacy skills, professional self-development, and effective communication in the business context. 

Specific topics may include: identifying the client, confidentiality and preserving privilege, transaction matters, corporate governance, effective communications compliance issues, and statutory/regulatory hot topics. 

In their internships, students will develop practical lawyering skills important to their current stage of professional development. Placement supervisors are experienced attorneys who broadly expose students to the activities of their offices, oversee varied and demanding assignments, and provide regular feedback on student performance. Students are required to work at least 150 hours at their internships during the semester, and students may not receive financial compensation for their internship work. The internship must involve the student and the supervising attorney working in person at the placement office, and most of the student’s internship work must be completed at the placement.

The classroom component of the course is designed to enhance the educational experience of students by giving them the opportunity to reflect on their internship and to understand the broader landscape in which their internship is situated. Through the seminar, students will deepen their understanding of in-house lawyering, ethical issues that confront in-house lawyers, and how the role of in-house lawyers blends both law and business. 

Application Requirements: Students must submit an application for permission to register for the course. The course is open to students who have completed the first two semesters of law school. Before applying for the course, a student must first arrange a qualifying internship based in the Austin area. The instructor is available to consult with students about possible placements, and some organizations post opportunities on TEX. Each placement and supervising attorney must be approved by the instructor prior to registration. A student who wishes to participate in the course must obtain the internship and apply to the instructor before the first class meeting.

Students who have previously received credit through any of the other internship courses (nonprofit, legislative, judicial, etc.) are eligible to enroll in this course. Credits: 4 (graded pass/fail)

The corporate counsel internship course has two components: (1) a weekly class, and (2) an internship with a corporation or business that involves delivering in-house legal services and performing other law-related tasks under the supervision of an experienced lawyer employed by the organization. Students engage in legal work on substantive issues commonly encountered by in-house counsel, gaining hands-on experience that they reflect upon and analyze in class through discussions, presentations, exercises, and real-world case studies. Assignments address topics relevant to the legal profession and professional identity, including ethics and advocacy skills, professional self-development, and effective communication in the business context. 

Specific topics may include: identifying the client, confidentiality and preserving privilege, transaction matters, corporate governance, effective communications compliance issues, and statutory/regulatory hot topics. 

In their internships, students will develop practical lawyering skills important to their current stage of professional development. Placement supervisors are experienced attorneys who broadly expose students to the activities of their offices, oversee varied and demanding assignments, and provide regular feedback on student performance. Students are required to work at least 150 hours at their internships during the semester, and students may not receive financial compensation for their internship work. The internship must involve the student and the supervising attorney working in person at the placement office, and most of the student’s internship work must be completed at the placement.

The classroom component of the course is designed to enhance the educational experience of students by giving them the opportunity to reflect on their internship and to understand the broader landscape in which their internship is situated. Through the seminar, students will deepen their understanding of in-house lawyering, ethical issues that confront in-house lawyers, and how the role of in-house lawyers blends both law and business. 

Application Requirements: Students must submit an application for permission to register for the course. The course is open to students who have completed the first two semesters of law school. Before applying for the course, a student must first arrange a qualifying internship based in the Austin area. The instructor is available to consult with students about possible placements, and some organizations post opportunities on TEX. Each placement and supervising attorney must be approved by the instructor prior to registration. A student who wishes to participate in the course must obtain the internship and apply to the instructor before the first class meeting.

Students who have previously received credit through any of the other internship courses (nonprofit, legislative, judicial, etc.) are eligible to enroll in this course. Credits: 4 (graded pass/fail)

The corporate counsel internship course has two components: (1) a weekly class, and (2) an internship with a corporation or business that involves delivering in-house legal services and performing other law-related tasks under the supervision of an experienced lawyer employed by the organization. Students engage in legal work on substantive issues commonly encountered by in-house counsel, gaining hands-on experience that they reflect upon and analyze in class through discussions, presentations, exercises, and real-world case studies. Assignments address topics relevant to the legal profession and professional identity, including ethics and advocacy skills, professional self-development, and effective communication in the business context. 

Specific topics may include: identifying the client, confidentiality and preserving privilege, transaction matters, corporate governance, effective communications compliance issues, and statutory/regulatory hot topics. 

In their internships, students will develop practical lawyering skills important to their current stage of professional development. Placement supervisors are experienced attorneys who broadly expose students to the activities of their offices, oversee varied and demanding assignments, and provide regular feedback on student performance. Students are required to work at least 150 hours at their internships during the semester, and students may not receive financial compensation for their internship work. The internship must involve the student and the supervising attorney working in person at the placement office, and most of the student’s internship work must be completed at the placement.

The classroom component of the course is designed to enhance the educational experience of students by giving them the opportunity to reflect on their internship and to understand the broader landscape in which their internship is situated. Through the seminar, students will deepen their understanding of in-house lawyering, ethical issues that confront in-house lawyers, and how the role of in-house lawyers blends both law and business. 

Application Requirements: Students must submit an application for permission to register for the course. The course is open to students who have completed the first two semesters of law school. Before applying for the course, a student must first arrange a qualifying internship based in the Austin area. The instructor is available to consult with students about possible placements, and some organizations post opportunities on TEX. Each placement and supervising attorney must be approved by the instructor prior to registration. A student who wishes to participate in the course must obtain the internship and apply to the instructor before the first class meeting.

Students who have previously received credit through any of the other internship courses (nonprofit, legislative, judicial, etc.) are eligible to enroll in this course. Credits: 4 (graded pass/fail)

This course is restricted to upper class students only. Federal Public Defender Internship – APPLICATION REQUIRED. Application and/or instructions on how to apply for this internship can be accessed on the web: http://law.utexas.edu/internships/application-information/federal-public-defender-internship/.

To apply, please e-mail a copy of your cover letter, resume and transcript (unofficial is fine) to Prof. Klein at sklein@law.utexas.edu and Supervisory Assistant Federal Public Defender Aldredge at horatio_aldredge@fd.org. Students interested in the internship can obtain additional information from Prof. Susan Klein, by visiting her office, TNH 3.207, during her office hours on Wednesdays from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. Students may also call her at (512) 203-2257, or send her an email. Students may call Prof. Aldredge at (512) 916-5025, or send him an e-mail.

** This course meets the Professional Skills requirement for graduation. **

Course Description:

This internship program offers “for-credit” internship positions with the Austin Federal Public Defender’s Office. Students will assist in the defense of federal criminal cases under the supervision of Supervisory Assistant Federal Public Defender Horatio R. Aldredge, 504 Lavaca St., Suite 960, Austin, TX 78701-2860. While the internship requires a 10 hour per week commitment, not all those hours must be completed at the Fed. Public Defender’s office - many can be done at school or at home. Students should expect to spend one day per week at the office or in federal court.

Students earn 2 credits (pass/fail) for the spring semester. This internship program is not available during either summer session.

Students may wish to enroll in Adv. Fed. Crim. Prosecution & Defense, Federal Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure: Investigation, Criminal Procedure: Prosecution (bail to jail), and Evidence, but these courses are not required.

The application deadline for the Spring 2027 semester is Monday, October 19th, 2026. Interviews are conducted at the Career Services Office or via Zoom.

Additional Information

Information on the Federal Public Defender Office is available at: http://txw.fd.org/austin.

Students will arrange their work schedules with their supervisor. They are expected to work about 10 hours per week per semester.

Exams:        None

Registration Information:

This course is restricted to upper class students only. Federal Public Defender Internship – APPLICATION REQUIRED: https://law.utexas.edu/internships/federal-public-defender-internship/course-information/

To apply, please email a copy of your cover letter, resume and transcript (unofficial is fine) to Prof. Susan Klein at sklein@law.utexas.edu and to Assistant Federal Public Defender Horatio Aldredge at horatio_aldredge@fd.org. Students interested in this internship can obtain additional information by stopping by Prof. Klein’s office at TNH 3.207 (her office hours are Wed. 3:30 – 5:00 pm), or calling or texting her at (512) 203-2257. They may also call Mr. Aldredge at (512) 916-5025.

** This course meets the Professional Skills requirement for graduation.

** Course Description:

This internship program offers students the opportunity to apply for “for-credit” internship positions with the Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Western District of Texas, Austin Branch. Students will assist in the defense of federal criminal cases under the supervision of Mr. Aldredge and other assistants. Information on the Federal Public Defender Office is available at: http://txwd.fd.org/austin. The office is located downtown at 504 Lavaca St., Suite 960, Austin, TX 78701. The internship requires a 10 hour per week commitment, but not all those hours need to be completed at the Fed. Public Defender Office. Students should expect to spend at least one day per week at the office or in federal court.

Students earn 2 credits (pass/fail) for the fall semester and, if they enroll in the spring, they earn another 2 credits (pass/fail) for spring semester. Students are encouraged to commit to a full academic year of internship study, but one semester applications will also be reviewed. This internship program is not available during either summer session.

Students may wish to enroll in the Fall 2023 Adv. Fed. Crim. Prosecution and Defense seminar, co-taught by Prof. Klein and Aleza Remis. They might also consider enrolling in Fed. Crim. Law, taught in the spring by Prof. Klein and in the fall by Judge Robert Pitman. Applicants may also benefit from having completed one or both Criminal Procedure courses, Evidence, any upper-level criminal justice course, and any internship or clinical program in the criminal justice field. None of those courses are required.

The application deadline for the next academic year is March 27th, 2023. Interviews are conducted at the Career Services Office or via Zoom. Though students will know whether or not they are admitted before fall registration, the unique registration number for the fall 2023 internship will not be available until April 15, 2023.

Students will arrange their work schedules with their supervisor. They are expected to work about 10 hours per week per semester.

Exams:        None

Registration Information:

This course is restricted to upper class students only. Federal Public Defender Internship – APPLICATION REQUIRED: https://law.utexas.edu/internships/federal-public-defender-internship/course-information/

To apply, please email a copy of your cover letter, resume and transcript (unofficial is fine) to Prof. Susan Klein at sklein@law.utexas.edu and to Assistant Federal Public Defender Horatio Aldredge at horatio_aldredge@fd.org. Students interested in this internship can obtain additional information by stopping by Prof. Klein’s office at TNH 3.207 (her office hours are Wed. 3:30 – 5:00 pm), or calling or texting her at (512) 203-2257. They may also call Mr. Aldredge at (512) 916-5025.

** This course meets the Professional Skills requirement for graduation.

** Course Description:

This internship program offers students the opportunity to apply for “for-credit” internship positions with the Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Western District of Texas, Austin Branch. Students will assist in the defense of federal criminal cases under the supervision of Mr. Aldredge and other assistants. Information on the Federal Public Defender Office is available at: http://txwd.fd.org/austin. The office is located downtown at 504 Lavaca St., Suite 960, Austin, TX 78701. The internship requires a 10 hour per week commitment, but not all those hours need to be completed at the Fed. Public Defender Office. Students should expect to spend at least one day per week at the office or in federal court.

Students earn 2 credits (pass/fail) for the fall semester and, if they enroll in the spring, they earn another 2 credits (pass/fail) for spring semester. Students are encouraged to commit to a full academic year of internship study, but one semester applications will also be reviewed. This internship program is not available during either summer session.

Students may wish to enroll in the Fall 2023 Adv. Fed. Crim. Prosecution and Defense seminar, co-taught by Prof. Klein and Aleza Remis. They might also consider enrolling in Fed. Crim. Law, taught in the spring by Prof. Klein and in the fall by Judge Robert Pitman. Applicants may also benefit from having completed one or both Criminal Procedure courses, Evidence, any upper-level criminal justice course, and any internship or clinical program in the criminal justice field. None of those courses are required.

The application deadline for the next academic year is March 27th, 2023. Interviews are conducted at the Career Services Office or via Zoom. Though students will know whether or not they are admitted before fall registration, the unique registration number for the fall 2023 internship will not be available until April 15, 2023.

This internship program offers students the opportunity to apply for a  “for-credit” internship position with the Federal Public Defender's Service for the Western District of Texas, Austin Division. You must first submit a application to me and to Mr. Horatio Aldredge. The application deadline for the 2023-2024 academic year is March of 2023. Interested students are usually interviewed during Spring break. You will know whether you have been accepted into the program before fall registration, but the uique number for the internship will not be available until April of 2023.

Information on the Federal Public Defender Office is available at: http://txw.fd.org/austin. Your supervising attorney will be Supervisory Assistant Federal Public Defender Horatio R. Aldredge. You will assist Mr. Aldredge and other attorneys in his office in the defense of federal criminal cases. While the internship requires a 10 hour per week commitment, not all of those hours need to be done at the Fed. Public Defender’s office - many can be done at the law school or at home. However, you wil probably want to go in to the office, in downtown Austin, once a week.

Students earn 4 credits (pass/fail) over two semesters (2 credits per semester) – offered Fall and Spring every year. Students generally must commit to a full academic year of internship study, though occasionally the office is willing to supervise an intern for a single long semester. This is not available during either summer session.  Third year students are generally preferred, though second year students have successfully competed for one of these two positions in the past. Students are encouraged to also enroll in eiither the Fall three-unit Adv. Fed.  Crim. Prosecution and Defense seminar, co-taught by Professors Susan Klein and Aleza Remis, Asst. Dep. Chief of the Fraud Div. at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas, or and to take the three-unit Federal Criminal Law course taught by Prof. Susan Klein, but neither is required. Enrolling in one of the criminal procedure courses is also helpful, but not required.

Students interested in the internship for the 2023-2024 academic year should visit with Prof. Susan Klein by calling her at (512) 203-2257, e-mailing her at sklein@law.utexas.edu, or visiting her office in Townes Hall, room number 3.207.  You may obtain additional information from my assistant Nick Charlsworth, telephone (512) 232-2292, e-mail ncharlesworth@law.utexas.edu.  Alternatively, you may send Prof. Aldredge an e-mail at horatio_aldredge@fd.org.