Federal Courts: Theory & Practice

by Robert N. Clinton

Clinton, Matasar, and Collins draw on their extensive litigation experience and scholarship to exquisitely interpret and clarify the complex, and sometimes unstable and incoherent, doctrines of federal courts jurisprudence. The authors blend a theoretical and practical approach. Having seen the Federalists vs. Antifederalists debates replay themselves daily in America's federal courtrooms, they believe the most practical knowledge of federal court doctrines frequently involves the most theoretical perspectives. Consequently, they pervasively favor broad assertions of federal judicial power -- a viewpoint they believe was the intent of the original Federalists -- and they use this viewpoint to challenge and stimulate students. This book begins with coverage of the basic structure, jurisdiction, and powers of the federal district courts; turns to constitutional litigation; and concludes with appellate jurisdiction.<p class=copymedium>Highlights class=copymedium>a thorough exploration of the original history (including excerpts from The Federalist)<li class=copymedium>in-depth coverage of important landmarks of the Reconstruction Era, which granted federal courts power over many matters formerly left almost exclusively to state courts<li class=copymedium>a rich survey of the post-adoption evolution of federal courts doctrines.</ul> <p class=copymedium>Excellent a contextual approach, a traditional organization, thoughtfully chosen cases, and copious and well-written notes.

1553 pages, Unbound

First published December 1, 1995