LAW 838: Current Issues in Transactional Practice
Using current issues and both real and hypothetical transactions to frame the inquiry and dialogue, this advanced course will explore the transactional process from a business lawyer's perspective. The course objectives include not only more advanced attention to the substantive laws, regulations and legal principles that affect today's complex business transactions, but also how the business lawyer may effectively use his or her mastery of the legal issues as well as process to his or her client's advantage. What are the relevant substantive and procedural legal considerations for the transaction and how do they affect the structure and execution of the transaction? How are legal issues and business objectives synthesized? How is the transaction closed? What role does the lawyer play in the process? How can business lawyers enhance the likelihood that their clients' business objectives will be realized? Topics will include identifying and minimizing legal risks ("due diligence"), structuring, negotiating and documenting the transaction, and closing and post-closing tasks. The course will meet twice per week throughout the semester and for one weekend "immersion session." Significant written work and class participation will be required, including a mid-semester examination and an end-of-the-course term paper or project. Prerequisites/co-requisites: Corporations or Corporations and Business Entities, Introduction to Corporate Finance, Federal Tax, Securities Regulation and Secured Transactions. Graduating 3Ls (2Ls only with permission). [4]
