How the 5th and 14th Amendments protect the Fundamental Fairness in our Justice System

Overview:

This thought-provoking course examines how the 5th and 14th Amendments protect the principle of fundamental fairness within the American justice system, especially when legal outcomes may not align with ethical standards or public expectations of justice. Participants will explore the complex relationship between law and ethics, analyzing landmark Constitutional and State Court cases that raise important ethical questions beyond the letter of the law. Topics include Attorney/Client Privilege, Search and Seizure (4th Amendment), Due Process (5th Amendment), Cruel and Unusual Punishment (8th Amendment), Free Speech (1st Amendment), the Right to Privacy, and pressing issues such as immigration, social justice, and discrimination. Through guided debate and legal critique, the course challenges attendees to consider whether legal rulings always reflect what is ethical-or what is right.

Course Objective:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Distinguish between legal issues and ethical issues, and recognize when and how the two intersect.
• Understand how Judges and Supreme Court Justices incorporate public policy considerations into their legal decisions.
• Critically analyze U.S. Supreme Court rulings, gaining insight into judicial reasoning and the broader implications of landmark decisions.

Target Audience: 

This course is ideal for anyone with an interest in Constitutional Law, ethics in the legal system, or the broader intersection of law, policy, and justice. It is especially valuable for:

• Legal enthusiasts and students exploring constitutional principles
• Law and political science educators seeking deeper context for current legal debates
• Social justice advocates and policy professionals
• Government employees, public administrators, and compliance officers
• Members of the general public interested in understanding how legal rulings impact ethical standards in society

Basic Knowledge:

No prior legal training or background is required. This course is designed to be accessible to participants from all professional and educational backgrounds. An interest in constitutional issues, legal ethics, or current social justice topics will enhance the learning experience.