My name is Christopher Banks and I am a professor of political science at Kent State University.  I combine my research and teaching interests by studying the political behavior of the judiciary, constitutional law, the courts, and civil rights and liberties.  I published books and articles relating to judicial policy-making, federalism, the legal and criminal process, American politics, terrorism, Bush v. Gore (2000), the politics of court reform, and the judicial politics of the D.C. Circuit. On campus, I teach graduate courses in American politics and law, justice, and society. My undergraduate instruction includes teaching courses on the Supreme Court, constitutional law, civil rights and liberties, the judicial process, and American politics. Before receiving my doctorate, I practiced law in civil and criminal litigation. In addition to practicing law and campaigning for state representative in Connecticut in 1988, I received a gubernatorial appointment to serve as an administrative hearing officer for the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities before earning my doctorate in American government at the University of Virginia.

Speaking Engagements

In addition to academic conferences, I regularly speak on various topics surrounding law and politics.  These presentations have ranged from speaking at universities on constitution day to political groups on the Supreme Court.  Please visit the Speaking Engagements Page for more info and to request a talk.