Advanced Trial Advocacy

Catalog description

This capstone course prepares students for full-scale trial performance, emphasizing mastery of advocacy skills in complex, high-stakes scenarios. Students conduct complete trials from pretrial motions through verdict, including comprehensive voir dire, opening statements, direct and cross-examination of multiple witnesses, introduction of exhibits, and closing arguments. Instruction highlights advanced persuasion techniques, strategic use of objections, and effective handling of unexpected developments during trial. Students demonstrate professional ethics and cultural competency while addressing systemic barriers to justice. Designed for students who have completed R203, this course culminates in a graded mock trial experience that mirrors real-world courtroom practice.