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Prof. Lorie M. Graham,
3 credits day; 3 credits evening. This course introduces students to the unique legal relationship
that exists between the United States and its indigenous peoples. It covers a host of issues from
domestic constitutional law, to property to international human rights law. The grade for this
course is determined by class participation and a final take-home exam. Class participation
includes attendance, participation in class discussions and group exercises, and review of current
events.
This course explores a body of law intended to address the legal relationship among American
Indian nations, the federal government, and states. This body of law is expressed in treaties,
federal statutes and regulations, Solicitor's opinions, and Supreme Court decisions. It is a rapidly
expanding field that implicates other branches of legal study, such as constitutional law,
property, administrative law, environmental law, international law, and federal jurisdiction. It
also addresses the interests and rights of non-Indians vis-à-vis their legal encounters with
indigenous nations and tribes. The course also considers the impact that American Indian law in
the United States is having globally as Native groups from around the world move to establish
rights to natural resources, sovereignty, and cultural diversity. As a practicing attorney, you are
more likely than ever before to encounter Indian law issues - from business transactions to
adoption to complex jurisdictional and choice of law questions. Beyond practice, the study of
Indian law tells us a great deal about how our legal system deals with issues of pluralism and
about the tenor and contemporary morality of society.
Enrollment is limited: 20
Elective Course
On List of Recommended Perspectives Courses
Meets International Law Concentration Requirements
Take Home Exam Required
LLM Course
Insurance Law