Government Investigations

• Semester: Fall 2025
• Course ID: 196V
• Credit Hours: 1
• Unique: 30782

Description

Taught by Molly Claflin.

This course will have required readings prior to the first in-class meeting. The only days this course will meet in person are: October 24-25 and November 7-8.

This course examines the constitutional and legal framework governing governmental investigations, with a particular focus on congressional investigative powers–both over the private sector, and over the executive branch. Students will explore the separation of powers doctrine as it applies to investigations and the inherent tension it creates between the executive and legislative branches, the scope and limits of congressional oversight, executive privilege, and the investigative authority over private entities. Through analysis of landmark cases, practical applications, and case studies of major congressional investigations, students will gain a sophisticated understanding of this complex, growing, and evolving area of law. Students will be evaluated based on research and writing assignments of modest length, in-class exercises, and class participation.