The Art of Trial Advocacy

Catalog description

This course will provide a more sophisticated and practical approach to trial advocacy and help students develop litigation skills commensurate with those of a practicing trial attorney. Students will learn the ¿art of trial advocacy¿ through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, and practical exercises. The exercises will be based on a murder trial of a criminal defendant, using one case fact pattern. The course will simulate the phases of a trial, including case analysis and formulating a trial strategy, using a theme and theory, designing an effective order of proof, and performing exercises in jury selection, opening statements, direct and cross-examination and closing arguments. Each lesson will focus on the importance of effective communication, including the use of compelling word choice, developing a proficient understanding of the rules of evidence and the practical application of these rules in a pre-trial and trial setting