Learning Outcomes

The following is the A.B.A. Standard 301 Statement regarding learning outcomes for Food and Agricultural Law Certificate:

Substantive Law

• Understand the relationship between food and agricultural law and policies to each other and other areas of law
• Understand the broad scope of issues, laws and regulations that fall under the food and agriculture umbrella
• Understand the regulatory framework of the food and agricultural sectors on the federal level and the roles that states play in regulation of these industries
• Understand the basic elements of food safety and food labeling, agricultural contracts, environmental regulation of agricultural production, farm programs, the Farm Bill and other key aspects of law and policy

Procedural Law

• Understand how the legal and legislative systems impact the food system and the agricultural sector's ability to produce, market, and use agricultural products
• Understand the history of federal and state regulation of the food and agricultural sector
• Understand the administrative and regulatory process
• Be able to identify aspects of international law that impact the domestic food and agricultural sectors
• Understand available policy and regulatory options to institute change at the local, state, and federal levels

Legal Analysis and Reasoning

• Be able to analyze the impact of agricultural and food law and policies on all levels of stakeholders, including consumers, manufacturers and producers
• Be able to rationalize, articulate and support an argument regarding the effectiveness of one proposed law or policy over another

Legal Research

• Be familiar with the resources available at state and federal levels to support research related to and implementation of food and agricultural laws and policies
• Be familiar with the relevant regulatory codes

Problem Solving

• Be able to spot issues or other areas of concern when working with clients in order to identify solutions or ways to mitigate risk
• Understand the intersection of agricultural and food laws and policies and other areas, working to build consensus and greater understanding of issues for all stakeholders

Written Communication in the Legal Context

• Be able to draft policy statements and arguments
• Be able to prepare and draft appropriate advocacy materials  

Oral Communication in the Legal Context

• Be able to effectively communicate with stakeholders across the food and agricultural sectors
• Be able to effectively advocate a position, articulating arguments and incorporating/addressing opposing views

Professional and Ethical Responsibilities

• Develop strategies and abilities to represent client zealously while showing respect and civility to other parties, counsel and viewpoints
• Demonstrate respect for the legislative and process and those involved with it at all levels