Course Objectives

This course covers the specific vocabulary and constructions of Legal English while at the same time trying to impart a fundamental understanding of the composition and functioning of the US legal system. We accomplish this through interactive discussions and exercises designed to introduce and practice legal vocabulary, develop oral communication and presentation skills and gain proficiency in using the language of American law.

Course syllabus and materials are listed below. Please log in to view these items.

Student Comments

"I quite liked Mr. Feldman's way of leadership. I think he did a very good job and one could really feel that he loves teaching. Additionally he treated the students with a lit of respect, even if they had troubles concerning the language." Anon., Summer 2009 

"It offered me a clear picture of the American Legal System. Professors are helpful and course materials were well prepared." Anon., Summer 2008

"The professors were excellent and the program met my needs of learning more about the USA legal system." Anon., Summer 2008 

"Legal English is getting more important and necessary every day." Anon., Summer 2008 

Faculty Information

Michael Feldman is a senior lecturer at Boston University's Center for English Language and Orientation Programs (CELOP), where he teaches English to international M.B.A and LL.M. candidates. He holds an A.B. degree Psychology and Social Relations and an M.S. degree in Education. Mr. Feldman spent several years in Ecuador, where he founded the English Language department at Universidad Espiritu Santo (UEES) in Guayaquil. He also spent ten years living in Peru and has extensive knowledge of South American countries and culture.

Lynn Bonesteel is a senior lecturer in English as a Second Language at the Center for English Language and Orientation Programs (CELOP) at Boston University, where she teaches Legal English to both pre-LLM candidates and legal practitioners. She has extensive experience as a teacher in higher education and as a writer of ESL textbooks and teachers' manuals. Ms. Bonesteel has also written materials for the Program for Legal English Academic Development (PLEAD), an online academic programme designed to help university law faculties and language schools throughout the world offer Legal English training to lawyers and law students.

Course Syllabus and Materials

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