Law school initiates new course theory
By JULIE THATCHER
Kansan staff writer
An experimental class on legislative theory and statute drafting is being taught at the University of Kansas School of Law this fall. Known as legislative workshop, the three hour course can ultimately result in action by the Kansas Legislature.
Initiated last summer by Barkley Clark, associate professor of law, the class concentrates on practical application rather than case law studies. After researching the need for legislation, students write a report and draft a statute.
Although several schools work on similar problems, KU is the first to include such a program in the curriculum, said Lawrence E. Blades, dean of the School of Law.
"There were no prototypes or precedents for the class, so we were anxious about it at first. Now we feel we've made real progress," Blades said.
Until Thanksgiving, students will be meeting twice a week with Charles H. Oldfather, professor of law, to study the theory, Clark said. Then three man teams will choose a topic, begin investigations and draw up model legislation.
Administrators appointed
The following new appointments in the Chancellor's office have taken place over the summer:
Raymond Nichols has relinquished the position of vice-chancellor for finance but retains the functions of executive secretary and remains the designated representative for the retirement system. Keith L. Nitcher who has been serving as comproller in the Department of the Vice-Chancellor for Finance has been appointed vice-chancellor for finance. Formerly working for the city administration of Washington, D.C., Philip M. Gary has been appointed special assistant to the chancellor for urban affairs.
Robert P. Cobb, former assistant dean of the college, has been appointed associate dean of faculties for international programs but will retain some responsibilities in the college office. B. G. Barr, associate director of the Center for Research in Engineering Science (CRES), will remain in this position and also serve as the assistant dean of faculties for research.
John G. Clark, associate professor of history, has been appointed acting assistant dean of faculties for research, replacing Henry Snyder, who is on leave. Mrs. June Michal, who has worked at the government research center for the past six years, has been appointed administrative assistant to the dean of faculties. Dean of Faculties, Francis H. Heller, will also serve as acting provost, pending recommendation to the Chancellor of a special committee to be appointed.
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Before the report is ready for a legislative committee, lobby group or an interest group, students spend many hours on research.
"They really get out and do some leg-work." Clark said, "and may interview 20 or 25 people from all over the state."
Last summer, student work was recognized in several areas. Edward Church, Greenburg third year law student; Robert Looney, Iola second year law student; and Harry Wiles, Topeka third year law student, worked on bail law reform. They attended a meeting of the Kansas Judicial Council studying changes in criminal procedure.
In August Neil Roach, Anthony third year law student, and Donald Paxson, Topeka third year law student, testified before the state senate financial institutions committee. They compared the new Consumer Credit Code to present Kansas law.
Clark also said a sovereign immunity report is being used by the Kansas Legislative Council to determine the need for legislation in this area.
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This recognition is most rewarding to the students, Clark said. "They like to see their work used."
Response to the class has been enthusiastic. Robert F. Bennett, Shawnee Mission senator, spoke to the class and also evaluated work done in the consumer credit area. He said the program is excellent.
"The class is still embryonic," he added, "so we will have to see how it works in practice. If it is successful, it is an area for expansion and if properly done, can be a real benefit to the legislature."
Wright Crummett, general counsel for the Kansas League of Municipalities, also indicated approval of the program.
URBAN PROJECT
"We need all the study and information that we can obtain," he said. "I wish other colleges and universities would expand upon this.
COLUMBIA, Mo. (UPI)—The University of Missouri is engaged in a unique project to delve deeper into the troubles of urban areas. The four campuses of the State University initiated the Urban Problem Solving Program, utilizing faculty, staff and students from all sections of the state.
"We don't always agree with the conclusions but the value of the program is the facts and new ideas students can offer. So often we work with old ideas that have been warmed over," Crummett added.
Students also indicate affirmative views. John Hampton, Lawrence second year law student, said that service to the legislature
"It was a worthwhile experience," Church said, "and more interesting because there was more chance for individual initiative."
outweighed any disadvantages, including time.
Blades said, "The reaction I get is that students say it's the best course they have ever taken."
Even though enrollment dropped to 9 from the summer total of 35, Clark said, "it will pick up like any other course." He attributed the decreasing enrollment to a lack of publicity and registration confusion.
Topics to be studied this semester include compensation and appeal procedure in eminent domain proceedings, riot and criminal insurance, an "Ombudsman" proposal and a model landlord tenant code.
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Classical Film Series KING AND COUNTRY 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. Dyche 75c
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Special Film Series/New Wave Series Rene Clemet's PURPLE NOON 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. Dyche 75c
October 3,4
Popular Film Series AFRICAN QUEEN Humphrey Bogart, Kathryn Hepburn Crest Chase-W. C. Fields 7:00 and 9:30 p.m. Ballroom 50c