This is an exciting time to study the law of Religious Liberty. The Supreme Court in recent years has taken multiple cases to clarify the scope of the Religion Clauses of the First Amendment, and there is no indication that this trend will stop. Regardless of one’s underlying perspective or position, studying Religious Liberty is a way to understand not just that area of constitutional law, but also to examine the Supreme Court as an institution.
This class is an introduction to the law of Religious Liberty. It will also present an opportunity to develop appellate advocacy skills. Students will simulate oral arguments before the Supreme Court in significant religious liberty controversies, by performing in the role of advocates and justices.
This is a course open to students who have already taken a Constitutional Law class. No other prerequisite is required. We plan on meeting roughly every other week for two hours at a time. The course is graded, but students are welcome to exercise their pass-fail option if they wish. Grades will turn on (1) participation, including reliable attendance, and (2) the final exam.
Sasser, Hiram