Legal literacy : : an introduction to legal studies / / Archie Zariski.

• Superior document: OPEL- Open Paths to Enriched Learning
• VerfasserIn: Zariski, Archie,
• Place / Publishing House: Edmonton, Alberta : : AU Press,, 2014.; ©2014
• Year of Publication: 2014
• Language: English
• Series: Open paths to enriched learning.
• Physical Description: 1 online resource (221 pages) :; illustrations; digital file(s).
• Notes: Description based upon print version of record.

To understand how the legal system works, students must consider the law in terms of its structures, processes, language, and modes of thought and argument—in short, they must become literate in the field. Legal Literacy fulfils this aim by providing a foundational understanding of key concepts such as legal personhood, jurisdiction, and precedent, and by introducing students to legal research and writing skills. Examples of cases, statutes, and other legal materials support these concepts. While Legal Literacy is an introductory text, it also challenges students to consider critically the system they are studying. Touching on significant socio-legal issues such as access to justice, legal jargon, and plain language, Zariski critiques common legal traditions and practices, and analyses what it means “to think like a lawyer.” As such, the text provides a sound basis for those who wish to pursue further studies in law or legal studies as well as those seeking a better understanding of how the legal field relates to the society that it serves.

Table of Contents

Preface -- Chapter 1. Introduction -- Chapter 2. Legal Literacy and Other Literacies: Examining the Concept and Objectives of Legal Literacy -- Chapter 3. Legal Structures: Structures of Law and Legal Institutions -- Chapter 4. Legal Systems: Legal Systems-Linking Legal Institutions -- Chapter 5. Legal Processes and Procedures: Planning and Procedures for Processes used by Legal Institutions -- Chapter 6. Legal Language: Examining Language in Legal Institutions -- Chapter 7. Legal Research: Skills and Techniques for Researching Law -- Chapter 8. Legal Interpretation: Skills and Techniques for Making Sense of Law -- Chapter 9. Legal Communication: Oral and Written Communication to Achieve Legal Objectives -- Glossary of Terms.