BLW-253: Business Law and the Legal Environment

School
Business, Entrepreneurship, and Professional Development
Division
Business & Economics
Department
Economics & Finance
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Business Law
Course Number
253
Course Title
Business Law and the Legal Environment
Credit Hours
4.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
62.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
62.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
ENG-131 with a C grade or better
Catalog Course Description

Examines a variety of legal topics including the American Legal System, the laws of contracts, business organizations, personal injury and product liability. Focuses on understanding the legal environment in which businesses function.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. The American Legal System
    1. Identify sources of American Law.
    2. Explain how a case proceeds through the American court system, from the filing of the initial complaint to appeals.
    3. Analyze and apply law to hypothetical situations to reach a logical conclusion.
  2. Agreements and Consideration in Traditional Contracts and E-Contracts
    1. Describe the elements of a legal contract.
    2. Explain when contracts are or are not enforceable.
    3. Explain the ways a party’s contractual duty to perform may be discharged under common law.
    4. Describe contractual remedies for breach of contract under common law.
  3. Performance and Breach in Sales Contracts
    1. Explain the seller’s duty to perform under the Uniform Commercial Code.
    2. Explain the buyer’s obligations under the Uniform Commercial Code.
    3. Describe remedies for breach of contract under the Uniform Commercial Code.
  4. Secured Transactions
    1. Define legal terms used in Article Nine of the Uniform Commercial Code.
    2. Discuss priorities among creditors under the Uniform Commercial Code.
    3. Discuss the rights of creditors upon debtor default.
    4. Explain the basic function of Federal Bankruptcy Law.
  5. Business Organizations
    1. Distinguish among the different types of business entities.
    2. Describe the basic characteristics of each types of business entity.
  6. Torts and Product Liability
    1. Differentiate between intentional torts and negligence.
    2. Explain the elements of negligence and defenses to negligence.
    3. Explain the elements of product liability and defenses to product liability.

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Students will be assessed through research assignments, tests, quizzes, homework, presentations, and/or class participation. Students will be required to research a topical legal issue; select, evaluate, use, and document appropriate research material from external sources; and present arguments supporting each side of the legal issue.

Effective Term
Fall 2019