Business, Consumer, & Tax Law

Learn from some of the best in business law

Moritz has recently added more innovative programs to its business law offerings. Whether students are interested in corporate governance, consumer advocacy, working for the Internal Revenue Service, or representing a tech firm, they benefit from a distinguished lecture series, unique courses in business law, nationally recognized professors in the field, and, for some, the opportunity to serve on a leading business law journal.

In addition to the second-year preference course in basic business associations, students have the opportunity to take a number of advanced offerings. For example, Professor Larry Garvin teaches a course in entrepreneurial finance and a course concentrating on deal-making, which dissects business transactions. Professor Dale Oesterle teaches classes in business law, venture capital, and mergers and acquisitions. A growing team of business law professors also includes Paul Rose, who is widely known for his expertise in corporate governance, securities regulation, institutional investors, and comparative corporate law. Professor Steven M. Davidoff, whose focus is on financial regulation, hedge funds, deals, and mergers and acquisitions, has a regular column for The New York Times web site called "The Deal Professor."

The Distinguished Practitioners in Residence Program in Business Law draws some of the nation's top judges and practitioners to teach one-credit, concentrated courses in advanced subjects in business law. The program was created so that students can learn from and exchange ideas with extraordinarily accomplished and prominent practitioners. These adjunct professors participate in several on-campus activities during their stays. Past lecturers have included Scott V. Simpson, a partner at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in London; William B. Chandler, the chancellor of the Delaware Court of Chancery; Dan Sandman '73, former vice chairman and chief legal and administrative officer, general counsel, and secretary at U.S. Steel; and other distinguished practitioners representing some of the country's largest corporations and law firms.

J.D. students may also be invited to join the Ohio State Entrepreneurial Business Law Journal (EBLJ), which provides an excellent opportunity for them to explore the intersection of business and the law. Created and managed by students, this semiannual journal explores the legal issues facing entrepreneurs, small business owners, and venture capitalists. The EBLJ publishes scholarly articles, book reviews, and student-authored notes discussing provocative, timely issues facing the business community. Additionally, the EBLJ hosts an annual symposium where professors and practitioners from Ohio and around the country gather to discuss topical issues and emerging trends in entrepreneurial business law.

Moritz students may also have the opportunity to earn a joint J.D.-M.B.A degree. Students accepted in both programs split classes between the Moritz College of Law and the highly regarded Fisher College of Business at Ohio State. Just a quick walk from the law school, Fisher provides students with a top-notch business education that nicely complements a law degree.

J.D. students also may enroll in the Certificate Program in International Trade and Development, which is designed to provide law students with a broad legal and multidisciplinary background in international trade, investment, and commercial law. Students receive grounding in the basic business, tax, and commercial law courses that are important to any business lawyer. In addition, students are trained in domestic laws that affect international trade, such as federal trade laws that regulate countervailing duties, unfair trade practices, and export controls.