Instructor: Mathiew Le (William H. Gates Hall 133)

Lecture class is the first class of the day. It starts at 8:30 AM and everyone in UW UB has this class. This year, we studied criminal law, taught by Professor Mathiew Le. There are also four teacher assistant's there that lead the four Quiz Section classes that follow this class. This course introduces basic legal concepts involving the criminal justice system. We focus on the criminal elements of a crime against persons and property. We study the basics of law, engage in class discussions, and witness demonstrations. We have weekly reading and writing assignments and are tested on the lectures, discussions, notes, hypotheticals, and films that we watched.

This course's purpose is to introduce basic legal concepts involving the criminal justice system and advocacy. Students learn basic terminology, concepts, and processes associated with criminal law. The course focuses on the fundamental criminal elements of crimes against persons and criminal procedure through case law by means of class discussions and group activity. Engaging with the students and getting them to think in a different way is Le's favorite part of the class.

20% of the student's grade is classroom participation. 40% is from reading and writing assignments. The last 40% is from the final project. In the first week of lecture we learned about criminal law and procedures, and later on we learn about searches, seizures, and warrants. We learned about the basics of a mock trial through the film, "To Kill a Mocking Bird." In the second week, we learned about homicide and manslaughter. We also watched the film "Legally Blonde." Throughout the summer, we learned things ranging from murder and robbery to self-defense and punishment systems.

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