Economic Analysis of Law
Code
LL102
Department
Área de Ensino
Credits
4
Teacher in charge
Lúcio Tomé Feteira
Weekly hours
3
Teaching language
Português
Objectives
Students should have basic knowledge of Microeconomics, at the level of the respective course given for the degree in Law. Students will have the opportunity to develop, through lecture attendance, working-paper writing and independent study, the following general competences: (i) Evaluation and summarization of concepts; (ii) critical thinking; (iii) interpretation of information given by economic models; (iv) problem solving skills; (v) verbal and written communication. Successful students should achieve the following learning outcomes: (i) explain the fundamental theories underlying Law and Economics; (ii) identify the usefulness and limitations of such theories; (iii) apply tools of economic thought to the practical analysis of law issues, specifically concerning the behaviour of economic agents; (iv) analyse from both a theoretical and applied approach the behaviour of economic agents as conditioned by law.
Subject matter
1. The Methodology of Law and Economics;
2. Private Law. Property;
3. Contract Law;
4. Accident Law. Liability and Damages;
5. Public Law Enforcement and Criminal Law
6. General Structure of the Law;
7. Elements of Litigation Theory;
8. The Legal Systems Compared: Common Law and Civil Law.
Bibliography
Main References:
Shavell, S. (2004). Foundations of Economic Analysis of Law. Harvard University Press (BFD - EK-14)
Cooter, R., Ulen T. (2008). Law & Economics. 5 ed. Pearson (BFD - EK-4)
Other References:
Polinsky, A. (2003). An Introduction to Law and Economics. 3 ed. Aspen (BFD - EK-5)
Miceli, T. (1997). Economics of the Law. Oxford University Press (BFD - EK-15)
Teaching method
The course consists in lectures, with the lecturer introducing the syllabus topics. Students should permanently accompany lecture attendance with readings picked up from the bibliography list, so that they can take part in discussion during each theme presentation. Presence in class is essential to successfully achieve the course objectives.
Evaluation method
The student can choose from two evaluation methodologies:
1. Evaluation composed of working papers (total of 30% weight) and a final exam (70% weight)
2. Evaluation by final exam only.
If students wish so, they can volunteer to present their project and working papers in class, under evaluation method 1.