The Law: The Constitution on Campus

The Constitution on Compus

At a time when the emotional politics of confrontation has moved from the streets to the courtroom, it is the exceptional judge who can remain dispassionate. Federal Judge James E. Doyle, of Wisconsin's western district, has done just that—under most difficult circumstances: cases involving student dissent and campus unrest. His decisions have protected the individual rights of students, even while underscoring their obligation to respect the law.

In case after case, Judge Doyle has held that many regulations—for example, disciplinary procedures and dress codes in public schools and universities —are...