1. Description of the Course:
This course examines the network of rules that govern and shape social relationships in respect of valued or valuable resources. Most of these rules are of considerable antiquity, but it is no derogation to say that they are so; their pedigree points to some of the most admirable qualities of the common law – certainty and stability. Many of the rules are also quite dynamic and controversial.
2. Purpose of the Course:
The primary aim of the course is to teach students the basic principles of property law within a context that permits critical reflection. In trying to accomplish this aim, it is hoped that the course would help students to develop an understanding of the role that property law has played, and continues to play, in the development of Canada’s social, economic, and political systems.
3. Course Materials:
The following casebook is required material for the course:
M.J. Mossman & W.F. Flanagan, Property Law: Cases and Commentary (Toronto: Emond Montgomery, 1998)
The following material is recommended for the course:
B. Ziff, Principles of Property Law, 2nd ed. (Toronto: Carswell, 1996)
There are also supplemental materials to which students attention will be drawn at appropriate times during the year. Other books are on reserve in the Paul Martin Law Library. They include J.H. Baker, An Introduction to English Legal History, 3rd ed. (London: Butterworths, 1990), R.E. Megarry & H.W.R. Wade, The Law of real Property, 5th ed. (London: Stevens, 1984).
4. Evaluation:
Evaluation is by two examinations, one in December, and the other in April. In addition to these examinations, students may exercise the option of writing a paper on a topic of their choice, selected from the syllabus of either term, for 25% of the overall marks for the year. The paper must be typed, double-spaced, and approximately 10 pages long (including footnotes). Papers are due two weeks before the final examination (precise date will be communicated to students every year).
The December mid-year examination is worth 30% of the final grade, and the April final examination is worth 70%. Examinations may be open- or closed-book, and unless otherwise advised, all topics covered in the classes during the year are examinable in the final examination.
Precise dates of the examinations will be communicated to students at the beginning of classes each year.
5. Office, Office Hours and Other Information:
Office Location:
Room 2127, Ron W. Ianni Faculty of Law Building.
Telephone: 519.253.3000 Ext. 2940
Facsimile: 519.973.7064
E-Mail: pocheje@uwindsor.ca
Office Assistant: Mary Mitchell (office is right by the West entrance to the second floor) Tel: 519.253.3000 Ext. 2960
I am available for questions and comments on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and by appointment. Precise office hours will be communicated as teaching schedules for the year are concluded.
6. Class Schedule and Plan
Each section has two classes of 1.5 hours duration per week. The days on which classes are held and the class plan will be communicated to students as schedules and time-tables are finalized for the year.