Research
The SMU Law faculty is recognized throughout the region, nation, and internationally for its contributions to the law. The faculty features numerous recipients of university-wide teaching and research awards, as well as national and international awards and distinctions.
Blockchain Technology
Professor Carla L. Reyes is an Assistant Professor of Law at SMU Dedman School of Law. She was appointed the Chair of the Texas Work Group on Blockchain Matters in September 2021. The work group is charged with considering policy priorities related to blockchain technology in Texas.
Self-defense and the right to keep and bear arms
Professor Eric Ruben's scholarly work has been published or is forthcoming in the California Law Review, Duke Law Journal, Georgetown Law Journal, Iowa Law Review, and Yale Law Journal Forum. He also has provided legal commentary for various popular outlets, including ABC News, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNN, The Atlantic, Vox, Scotusblog, NPR, and CBS Radio.
Senior Caregiving
Professor Jessica Dixon Weaver is an expert in child welfare law and public policy, and much of her scholarship focuses on theorizing methods for improvement of the legal systems and policies affecting families and children. Her current research and scholarship focus on the exploration of a theoretical basis to support a unified legal approach to intergenerational caregiving for children and senior citizens.Academic Centers
Deason Criminal Justice Reform Center
The Deason Center brings a Stats and Stories approach to criminal legal reform. The Stats: We collect, analyze, and assess the hard data that drive smart, sane, and sensible criminal justice reform. The Stories: We uncover, recount, and amplify the stories of people who live, work, and struggle in our criminal justice system.
Robert B. Rowling Center for Business Law & Leadership
The Rowling Center is the only center of its kind in Texas and has emerged as a national leader in the conversation on the intersection of business law and leadership. The Center builds upon the dynamic business and economic environment in Dallas - Fort Worth and the rich business tradition of SMU and the Dedman School of Law.
Tsai Center for Law, Science and Innovation
The Tsai Center explores how law and policy affect scientific research and discovery as well as the development and commercialization of new technologies. The Center also explores the converse—how scientific discoveries and new technologies affect ethics, society, private industry, and governmental institutions and agencies.