Pretrial Criminal Litigation

Catalog description

This course focuses on the pretrial phase in criminal cases. It begins with a defendant's initial appearance and concludes with a plea hearing. Class discussions and readings will explore the pretrial practices of effective defense counsel, including conducting a defense investigation, working with experts, and managing clients. The class will also emphasize oral advocacy skills. Students will be expected to appear as counsel during mock, in-class court hearings. Finally, this course will provide students with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with criminal case pleadings, including the drafting of at least one motion.