ABSTRACT

Thoroughly revised and updated, this widely used text offers a concise introduction to the American legal system for students without a legal background. The book's coverage is cross-disciplinary, informed by the literature of law, business administration and the social sciences, especially public administration and policy. Its goal is to give non-lawyers in all these areas a lucid overview of the workings of the American legal system as it may affect individuals and organizations in their interactions with each other and the environment.Unlike longer, more expensive competing works, "The Dynamics of Law" presents its subject with clarity and precision, and minimal use of legal terms. It offers clear explanations of how to brief a case and how statutes and regulations are codified in the United States. Study problems and review questions in each chapter, drawn from legal literature as well as general interest articles and books, are designed to stimulate classroom discussion.

chapter 1|11 pages

The Nature and Function of Law

chapter 2|32 pages

The Courts and Adjudication

chapter 3|28 pages

The Trial Stage

chapter 5|17 pages

Lawmaking by Legislatures

chapter 6|19 pages

Judicial Lawmaking II

Interpretation of Statutes

chapter 7|28 pages

Judicial Lawmaking III

Interpreting the Constitution

chapter 8|21 pages

Administrative Lawmaking and Adjudication

chapter 9|17 pages

Private Contributions to the Legal System

chapter 10|3 pages

Law in Society a Conclusion