A note about this casebook

Before we begin our substantive coverage of contract law, I wanted to share a bit about these course materials.

Why this format?

I used the same hard cover casebook for over twenty years. There were many things I liked about the materials in that book, but over the years there were many things that I didn't like and that became increasingly frustrating. First, and perhaps most importantly, it was very expensive for the students. The traditional model of casebook publishing has become outdated. With online solutions (such as this one) and the availability of easy access and distribution, there is no longer a justification, in many instances, for requiring students to spend $200 or $300 (or more!) on casebooks that consist primarily of public domain materials. Second, the online format allows for a modular, flexible approach that I hope students and teachers can take advantage of. Third, this format allows me to choose the topics and cases that I think are the most useful for students to know and understand.

About the materials:

This "casebook" is set up in a modular fashion, with five main parts arranged in a logical order. Within each part, there are subsections for each concept or doctrine, and for each of these concepts or doctrines, there is a combination of cases, statutory materials, and notes, problems, or questions. In many instances, you should read the cases first (and perhaps more than once), to try to determine what you are meant to understand and take away. The questions or problems following the case are meant to help you explore your understanding of those doctrines or concepts. You may not understand everything before you come to class (if you did, you wouldn't really need the class!), but I have not tried to "hide the ball." In some instances, I have provided a bit more introductory/explanatory material to help focus your reading.

All of the cases are edited for clarity and to focus on one or two specific substantive issues. The citation is included so that you can always find the original case. In many instances, I have deleted internal citations to improve readability. Notwithstanding this, you should become familiar with the format and substance of a full legal opinion (and of course you should always follow proper citation practices in your own writing).