Skills Program Timeline

The Legal Skills Program spans 3 semesters:

Legal Skills I 

The program’s first semester teaches the core skills of legal analysis, legal research, and legal writing. Students handle simulated problems by researching the applicable law, analyzing how the law applies to their facts, and conveying their analysis to their simulated client or a supervising attorney. 

Legal Skills II 

The second semester shifts to teaching advocacy. Students research and draft trial-level and appellate briefs and conduct oral arguments. 

Legal Skills III

The final semester develops competence in interactive lawyering skills. Students learn to:

• interview clients
• organize and analyze facts
• counsel clients
• help clients solve legal problems
• collaborate with colleagues
• negotiate with other attorneys
• identify ethical and professional concerns in law practice