LAW-2911 Privacy Law
This course will explore the concept, and practical aspects, of protecting privacy from constitutional, common law, and statutory perspectives. The interplay between state and federal attempts to regulate the practices of organizations and individuals that either enhance or diminish privacy will be examined. In addition, the course will consider the approaches of other nations and international organization in regulating the ability to collect, maintain, and use individually identifiable or other private, information. Case studies on the impact of laws relating to privacy in important areas of contemporary life, including consumer activities, financial services transactions, telecommunications, health care and medical research, journalism, information technology, and law enforcement will be examined, as will the impact of technological developments on the ability to compromise and protect privacy. While no prerequisites are required, previous study of constitutional law, torts, and criminal procedure may be helpful. The primary texts for the course will be either, Anita Allen, PRIVACY LAW AND SOCIETY (2nd ed.), or Daniel J. Solove, Marc Rotenberg, Paul M. Schwartz, INFORMATION PRIVACY LAW (2nd ed.). A privacy law reader may also be involved, and a statutory supplement. Other materials may be provided by the Professor from time to time. Requirements for the course will include preparation of between one and three graded exercises or papers and an in-class final examination. Class participation is encouraged and will be considered in calculating the grade for the course.