By engaging in simulated courtroom situations followed by specific critiques and recommendations for improvement, students learn to present persuasive opening statements and closing arguments, to conduct forceful direct and cross-examination of fact witnesses and experts, and to introduce successfully all types of exhibits. By reference to examples, students also become familiar with the ethical, evidentiary, procedural, and substantive aspects of litigation. The course will emphasize practical solutions to typical problems litigators encounter in the presentation of a case. At the conclusion of the course, students will undertake the trial of a simulated case from opening statement through jury deliberation before a judge or very experienced litigator.
Enrollment is limited.
Open to LL.M. students. Kant An introduction to alternative dispute resolution, with a focus on the many ways in which ADR can be used effectively by the advocate. Issues include determining whether ADR is appropriate in a given case, the timing of an ADR process, and the type of process that should be used. The role of the advocate during a mediation or other dispute resolution process, e.g., the selection of the neutral, preparing for a mediation, and the advocate's participation in the mediation itself. Emphasis on the mediation of civil cases, with a briefer discussion of the use of ADR in the criminal justice context.