Civil Trial Advocacy Program (LAW-695)
Spring Semester
Civil Trial Advocacy student-attorneys participate directly in three trials. Fictitious case files are used throughout the courses. In WCL classroom sessions, student-attorneys prepare and litigate two cases based on assigned National Institute of Trial Advocacy case files. A final case is tried before a jury panel of high school students.
During the Spring term, the focus is on planning, case theory, trial strategy and tactics, opening statements, direct and cross examination of witnesses, and closing arguments. In all sessions student-attorneys are divided into plaintiff and defense teams. Students unassigned as counsel in class trial sessions function as witnesses and jurors. Judges preside over in-class trials and the concluding full-day trial. Cases are deemed to take place in the District of Columbia and are tried under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and Evidence. Civil Procedure must be taken as a pre-requisite and Evidence may be taken as a pre-requisite or a co-requisite to this course.
On a team basis, student-attorneys assume responsibility for preparation and trial presentation. Student-attorneys plan and effectuate strategy, make opening statements, examine and cross-examine witnesses, argue motions and closings. Trial Advocacy is designed to give each student opportunities to participate directly in a complete jury trial. Trial advocacy is a "controlled clinic" based on the idea of learning by doing and then receiving feedback and critique from faculty and fellow students.
A special feature of the Trial Advocacy Program is a presentation by a professional actor on the use of theatre skills and techniques to communicate and persuade more effectively. Paul Morella is currently on tour in a one-man show on the life of legendary defense attorney Clarence Darrow.
This course is offered each Spring semester for 3 credits. Enrollment is limited.
