American Legislative Practice

American Legislative Practice is a book that examines how legislatures develop and enact statutes through a blend of theory and practical considerations. It covers a different aspect of legislative activity, such as the structure of the legislature, ethical issues, policy development, and the legislative process. It is unique in that it treats the legislative process as the center of our nation's political and legal discourse and employs original case studies, simulations, and exercises to help put legislative decisions in context.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 701 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2023
Publisher: West Academic Publishing

The study of American Legislative Practice delves into the intricate process by which legislatures create and implement statutes, combining theoretical frameworks with practical considerations. The author, with extensive experience as a legal counsel and legislative drafter within the Massachusetts Legislature and as the director of the Legislative Policy & Drafting Clinic at Boston University School of Law for the past 15 years, has authored this comprehensive book.

Spanning across seven chapters, each chapter explores a distinct aspect of legislative activity. The structure of the legislature, ethical dilemmas, policy development and the legislative process, constitutional issues, legislative drafting, lobbying and advocacy, statutory interpretation by agencies and courts, and legislative oversight are all meticulously examined.

What sets this book apart is its unique approach. Unlike other law school legislation textbooks, American Legislative Practice centers its attention on the legislative process as the focal point of our nation's political and legal discourse. It actively encourages readers to immerse themselves in the roles of legislators and their staff, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges involved in crafting legislation.

Furthermore, American Legislative Practice extends beyond the federal level, incorporating materials from various state legislatures. This broader perspective provides a comprehensive understanding of the legislative landscape across the United States.

To enhance the learning experience, the book employs a range of original case studies, simulations, and exercises. These practical tools contextualize legislative decisions and stimulate lively class discussions, encouraging students to engage with the material actively.

American Legislative Practice is versatile and can be utilized in both traditional theory-based legislation classes and policy-related practicums or clinics. It serves as a primary text or a valuable supplement for political science courses focused on Congress or the legislative process.

In conclusion, American Legislative Practice is a comprehensive and insightful resource that offers a deep understanding of the legislative process in the United States. By combining theory with practical considerations, it empowers readers to grasp the complexities and dynamics of legislative decision-making. Whether used in law school classrooms, policy practicums, or political science courses, this book is a valuable tool for anyone seeking to enhance their knowledge and appreciation of the legislative branch.

Weight: 1148g
Dimension: 188 x 259 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781683282112