PA 556 Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties

Constitutional Law: Civil Liberties delves into the pivotal Supreme Court decisions that shape the boundaries of Constitutional guarantees and the limits they impose on government actions. The course rigorously examines how these judicial determinations reconcile individual rights with societal needs concerning safety and crime prevention. Students will explore the nuances of conflicting group interests in contexts such as freedom of speech and assembly, church-state relations, and the rights of minority groups. Special attention is paid to the post-incarceration rights and duties of convicted individuals. Through this lens, students will assess the constitutional frameworks that govern law enforcement actions and the legal standards applicable to civil rights violations committed under color of authority. The curriculum also emphasizes the distinctions between public and private conduct in the government workplace. Engaging with these complex legal landscapes, students will enhance their capacity to critically analyze judicial interpretations of the Constitution, participate effectively in public policy discourse, and apply a nuanced public service perspective to real-world challenges.