Introduction to French Law
ECTS : 3
Description du contenu de l'enseignement :
Course description and objectives
Introduction to French Law introduces students to the fundamentals of the French Legal system. We will first focus on the history of French law and its modern political and judicial institutions. We will then turn to an overview of French private and public law, with a focus on their major features, principles and classifications. Finally, we will explore how French lawyers and law students research, analyse and frame legal issues.
Objectives:
The aim of this course is to provide an overview of French Law and Institutions, with a focus on their history, role and characteristic features. The course will also teach practical aspects needed in a French legal environment, to help prepare students study at Paris-Dauphine. Subjects will include an overview of French legal history, the Fifth republic political institutions, the structures and functions of the courts, basic principles of public and private law and civil law methodology.
Compétence à acquérir :
Learning outcomes
Knowledge of the historical evolution and role of French courts and political institutions.
Understanding of the characteristic features of the French Legal System
Understanding of the fundamentals of legal Writing, Research and Analysis in a civil law system
Mode de contrôle des connaissances :
Assignments and grading
- 50% Individual class participation
- 50% Final written exam
The numerical grade distribution will dictate the final grade. The passing grade for a course is 10/20.
Class participation: Active class participation – this is what makes classes lively and instructive. Come on time and prepared. Class participation is based on quality of comments, not quantity.
Exam policy: In the exam, students will not be allowed to bring any document (except if allowed by the lecturer). Unexcused absences from exams or failure to submit cases will result in zero grades in the calculation of numerical averages. Exams are collected at the end of examination periods.Bibliographie, lectures recommandées :
Bibliography
- John Bell, Sophie Boyron and Simon Whittaker, Principles of French Law, 2nd edition, Oxford University Press, 2008
- Raymond Young, English, French and German comparative law, 3rd edition, Routledge, 2014