LAW 608LEC - Federal Income Tax

An introduction to the basic principles of the federal personal income tax. This course will be taught through a series of in-class lectures, as well as an in-class review of hypothetical problems designed to encourage independent thought and critical analysis of the law and policy of federal income taxation. The course emphasizes a critical examination of the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and the Treasury Regulations (as well as other primary sources such as case law and IRS guidance) so that students may become proficient in the use of these basic tax tools. Topics analyzed will include history of the federal income tax, federal tax law authorities, federal tax procedure, the definition of gross income, exclusions and deductions from gross income, and tax rates. The course is designed to equip students to handle common personal income tax problems likely to arise in general practice.

Credits: 3