Professional Skills
Get off to a great start by developing the skills for success
The Professional Skills Program focuses on the fundamental lawyering skills of legal analysis, case synthesis, legal research and citation, and legal writing in the form of formal office memoranda and appellate briefs. The assignments increase in length and complexity as each semester progresses and as the students’ knowledge and skill level increases. The course is taught in small sections where students receive extensive feedback and work closely with their instructor and colleagues in a collaborative learning environment.
Online element
Students have online access to legal citations, class exercises, and a host of reference materials as well as message boards and links to other reference sites.
Advanced classes hone skills
Advanced classes provide direct skill orientation, development and practice. Upper division students must take six units of these classes, choosing from a comprehensive list of skills, including arbitration, negotiation, and client interviewing. Everyone teaching these classes is a practicing California Attorney, or in the Trial Practice classes, sitting judges. Classes are taught in an environment that provides real-life practice and experience. In Trial Practice, students learn how to put on a trial from start to finish, interviewing clients, developing strategies and arguing cases. In classes such as Negotiations, students utilize extensive role-playing in which they assume every role, learning what it’s like to be any of the participants including the plaintiff.