The vast majority of civil litigation is resolved without a trial, so development of pre-trial litigation skills is an important aspect of the professional development of students who are thinking about becoming litigators. This interactive course introduces students to significant elements of pretrial advocacy, including litigation decision-making, drafting pleadings, case planning, interrogatories, depositions, e-discovery and pre-trial motion practice and settlement negotiation. The emphasis is on case theory and litigation strategy with each of these stages. Students draft litigation documents and participate in simulation exercises regularly throughout the course, and have the opportunity to critique their own performance and observe other students’ performances as well. Active class participation and engagement in the exercises are mandatory. The course grade is based on the drafting and simulation exercises, class participation, as well as other written work which may include a paper or exam.

This upper-level simulation course gives students the opportunity to develop their pre-trial litigation skills.

Approved for the Experiential Learning Requirement. Enrollment is limited. Registration is binding.

Recommended for the following Professional Pathways: Civil Rights/Civil Liberties; Family Law; Government/Public Sector; Immigration; International Law/Human Rights; Labor and Employment; International Business; Labor and Employment (Corporate Perspective); Tax; IP/Copyright and Trademark; General Litigation – Litigation/Dispute Resolution

3 Credits