CJT 156: Everyday Law

Covers contract formation, drafting, and dissolution; as well as third-party rights, damages, and equitable remedies.

An alphabetical, quick-access guide to contract clauses, including the purpose and effect of common clauses, explaining the relevance of each, with illustrative examples.

Examines the the tension between individual autonomy and governmental regulation in all aspects of family law, the extent to which relationships established before marriage are being regulated, and how marriage is being redefined. Also examines fault and no-fault divorce procedures and the extent to which these procedures reflect social realities.

Provides a clear route through the child protection process. including explanation of key court decisions.

Explains how the birth of a child has little significance for parents' legal relationship to each other. Instead, the law relies upon marriage, domestic partnerships, and contracts to set the parameters of parents' legal relationship.

Covers how to retain good, long-term tenants; handle nitty-gritty maintenance such as snow removal, toilet clogs, and painting; avoid conflicts over late rent, unauthorized roommates, and move-out procedures; and limiting costly tenant turnover and vacancies.

Topics discussed include: getting landlords to make repairs by using rent withholding or repair-and-deduct; avoiding disputes with roommates over rent, deposits, guests, and noise; fighting illegal discrimination, retaliation, or sexual harassment; dealing with hazards like lead paint, mold, or bedbugs; breaking a lease with minimum liability; and getting a security deposit returned on time.