Class Actions Law (LAW462H1F)

At a Glance

First Term
Credits
3
Hours
2
SUYRP

Enrolment

Maximum
25
23 JD
2 LLM/SJD/MSL/NDEGS/SJD U

Schedule

W: 6:10 - 8:00
Instructor(s): Jacob Ziegel, Garry Watson, Michael Rosenberg

The advent of class actions in Canada has brought about some of the most radical changes in the practice of litigation in recent memory. These changes have had a profound impact by providing redress for large groups of plaintiffs for whom individual actions would be impractical. They have also made governments, businesses and organizations much more aware of their obligations and potential liabilities to citizens, employees, consumers and other members of the public. In short, class actions have brought mass justice to the fore of the legal agenda.

The seminar will be divided into three parts. The first part will be devoted to an examination of the principles of class action law, practice and procedure, as well as the impact of class actions in facilitating consumer justice and modifying defendants’ conduct. The second part of the seminar is expected to be earmarked for guest speakers – primarily prominent judges and counsel, who will speak about their experiences and perspectives on class actions. In the third part of the seminar, we will address the problems and challenges peculiar to particular types of class actions. This third section will endeavour to provide students with the skills to continue their study of class actions in private practice, government, business, activism, or academia.

Evaluation
(1) Each student will be asked to write a final paper on an approved topic pertaining to class actions. This paper is intended to provide students with an opportunity to explore areas of particular interest to them. Papers are not to exceed 5,500 words, and will count for 100% of the final grade. Papers will be eligible for the National Strosberg Essay Competition, which awards an annual prize of $10,000. (2) Each student will be asked to make a brief presentation to the seminar on a topic from the assigned reading. Students may express a preference for the week on which they wish to present. Students will be encouraged to guide a class discussion on their chosen topic. Students will also be expected to participate actively in seminar discussions throughout the term. No grade will be assigned for class presentations or for participation more generally, but both can move a student’s score up or down in the event that the final paper receives a mark that is between letter grades. A limited number of students will be permitted to complete the SUYRP requirement in this course.