Justin Simard is an assistant professor at MSU College of Law, where he teaches Professional Responsibility, Legal History, and Commercial Law. Prior to joining the faculty at MSU Law, he taught at Willamette University College of Law in Salem, Oregon.

Professor Simard received his bachelor’s degree in History from Rice University, and he completed his Juris Doctor and Ph.D. programs at the University of Pennsylvania. With his background, he aims to bring a new perspective to legal education as a historian, presenting the big picture view of concepts taught in his courses.

He has a natural enthusiasm for teaching, motivated in part by his own experiences as a student and knowing the impact of a passionate professor firsthand. He believes in helping students to find where they fit in law and is inspired by the moments when they truly understand and appreciate challenging concepts and legal skills.

Professor Simard’s research studies the modern citation of slavery by American judges and lawyers today and recognizes the profession’s history of legitimizing slavery through commercial practice. He has written and presented extensively on the topic, and his research can be found on his website.

Download Curriculum Vitae (PDF)

J.D., PhD. University of Pennsylvania
B.A. Rice University