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U.S. Law Unlocked
Course Overview
Introduction to the U.S. Legal System studies the constitutional foundations of the U.S. legal system and explores the relationship between law and society.
Week 1: focuses on the constitutional principles, history, and governmental structures that shape the U.S. legal system and the framework in which cases are decided by courts.
Week 2: acquaints students with the format of legal advocacy. Students will visit courts to watch oral arguments, study the organization and substance of legal arguments, and conduct their own oral arguments before a panel of mock judges.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, students will learn the following:
- the constitutional principles, history, and governmental structures that shape the U.S. legal system
- the concepts of separation of powers and federalism
- the structure of the state and federal court systems
- the concepts of subject matter jurisdiction and personal jurisdiction
- the mechanisms by which the law is assessed and applied by the courts
- the role of lawyers and the relationship between law and society
- to critically analyze the law and apply the law to the facts
- to engage in effective legal advocacy
- to analyze a legal issue, recognize the strengths and weaknesses of their client’s position, and craft persuasive arguments
- to prepare, practice, and deliver a persuasive oral argument
Course Information
- Credit:
- Noncredit
- Grading:
- Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
- Categories:
- Law, Politics, Philosophy, and History
Program Information
- Pre-College Program
The Emory Pre-College Program offers students an opportunity to experience many aspects of college life.
Course Dates and Details
| Program | Course Dates | Class Time | Format | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-College Program | Session A: Sun, Jun 14 - Sat, Jun 27, 2026 |
| on-campus | open |
Instructors
Paul Koster
Paul Koster teaches Introduction to Legal Analysis, Research, and Communications, Introduction to Legal Advocacy, Legal Profession, Introduction to the American Legal System, and Administrative Law. He also serves as faculty advisor to the Emory Law School Supreme Court Advocacy Program and the Emory Law Moot Court Society.
He was awarded the Minister Gloria Jean Fowler Angel Award by the Emory Law Class of 2024, Professor of the Year by the Emory Black Law Students Association in 2023, and the Provost’s Distinguished Teaching Award for Excellence in Graduate and Professional Education in 2021.
| Program | Course Dates | Class Time | Format | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-College Program | Session C: Sun, Jul 12 - Sat, Jul 25, 2026 |
| on-campus | open |
Instructors
Kyle Skinner
Kyle Skinner is an Assistant Teaching Professor at Emory University. His practice experience includes representing clients in complex legal matters including criminal defense, international finance, ethics disputes, and anti-bribery compliance. He has a proven track record of effectively handling crisis situations, making sure his clients’ business, personal, and legal strategies are aligned.