Social Ecology Civil Action Case

Background: The assignment is based on the Civil Action case described in “Death and Justice” and several video clips presented in class. This is a real case about toxic waste that happened in Woburn, Massachusetts in the 1980s. It has been taught at over 200 law schools around the country.

Goal: This assignment will help you reflect upon and understand the relationship between science and law, the struggles of families seeking justice, and the negligence of big corporations. You will also become familiar with legal terms and will practice research, writing, summarizing, and presentation skills.

Instructions: In the first week of classes, during the discussion session, you will choose to join a plaintiff group (representing the families) . You should utilize the sources provided at the end of this document (and other sources you find online) to write a 2-page paper that organizes the evidence supporting your group’s claims.