This class is designed for beginning advocacy students who are interested in gaining exposure to all areas of advocacy. The course covers topics such as the art and theory of persuasion, motion practice, alternative dispute resolution, trial techniques and courtroom technology. By combining theory through the lecture sessions with technique training in periodic skills sessions, students are able to practice what they learn. The lectures include traditional curriculum as well as new developments in a variety of areas such as learning theory, non-verbal behavior and retention rates. During skills sessions the students work in small groups with an adjunct faculty comprised of experienced litigators. Students get hands-on practice in areas such as opening and closing statements, the use and relevance of technology in litigation, voir dire, motion practice, and other general persuasive techniques.
Students work a case file as a class for the entire term. They see all aspects of litigation including pretrial motions, ADR, arbitration, voir dire and trial. At the end of the term, students try a case using all the persuasive knowledge gained throughout the course.
This class is appropriate for everyone. Students who do not plan on litigating will still find this class useful in that it offers a well-rounded introduction and overview of all areas of advocacy. For those students intending to become litigators, the class provides a solid foundation for the more advanced advocacy classes and will help them choose which classes and areas of litigation they are most interested in.