Legislative processes are part of many attorneys’ practices, whether as lobbyists, members of legislative bodies, or in staff positions in legislatures. We begin with an introduction to the role of legislatures, the constitutional limits on legislatures, and the laws governing how legislatures work. We will study the New Mexico legislature, become familiar with the legislative process, and observe a day of the legislative session.
In the U.S. legal system, administrative agencies play a major role in the interpretation and application of the law. Students will learn about the procedures under which agencies operate, the means by which affected citizens can participate, judicial review of agency decision making, and the constitutional limits on the power of agencies.
The class will be helpful preparation for classes involving statutory construction (i.e. Environmental Law, Tax Law, etc.) and for classes where administrative agencies are critical to the subject area (Labor law, Land use, Regulated Utilities, Water Law, Etc.).
It is my hope that first year students will take this class, along with 2Ls and 3Ls who might want a taste of these subjects. I use TWEN and urge you to sign up for emails when you enroll in the class.