This course introduces the basic statistical concepts economists and social scientists use to analyze data to provide statistical evidence. The course is intended to provide a sound foundation of introductory-level quantitative reasoning while using real-world examples to illustrate concepts and applications. With the emergence of big data and advances in algorithmic computing, lawyers are being asked more often to understand empirical methods, whether they are preparing a motion or brief, cross-examining experts in the courtroom, or evaluating the effect of a law in a legal or policy setting. In this course, students will learn how to deal with conflicting statistical evidence, use statistical evidence to evaluate the application of laws or policies, and how to deal with expert witnesses providing statistical evidence. The goal of this course is to equip future practicing lawyers with the skills necessary to be an informed consumer of statistics. The course does not require any background in math or statistics; however, students may feel better suited with a basic understanding of algebra.
Cunningham, Jamein P.