LAW 368 - Congressional Investigative Power

This course will explore the constitutional sources, scope and limits on Congress’ power to investigate - an ancient legal institution with parliamentary and colonial roots. Despite the well-known drama and bombast of televised congressional hearings, much less is known about what rules, and rights, apply to these quasi legal proceedings. The course will explore the legal foundation of the investigative power, as well as the rights of witnesses, the separation of powers, issues emanating from these proceedings, as well as the justiciability of disputes that arise therefrom.