Trial Advocacy

Catalog description

This is a "learning by doing" skills course where students learn and practice the basic, foundational skills necessary to try a civil or criminal case to a judge or jury. Students analyze case files, prepare for trial and perform each of the various portions of a trial -- opening statements, direct examination, cross examination and closing arguments. During the practical application portion of each class, every student performs the skill being taught in the role of an advocate, witness, and opposing counsel. Student weekly performances are videotaped for further review and critiqued by an experienced litigator. The course culminates with a 4-hour simulated trial. The primary goal of the course is to prepare our students to competently conduct a bench or jury trial.