Details

This course deals with the trial of a criminal case. The focus is upon strategy and procedure. The course provides students with practical experience with the prosecution and defense of criminal cases in both state and federal court. Emphasis is on criminal trial advocacy with students working on opening statements, admission of evidence, direct examinations, cross-examinations, and closing arguments. Students will act as both prosecutors and defense lawyers. Also discussed will be grand jury procedure, preparation of witnesses, evidentiary problems, arguments to the court, and sentencing procedures. Evaluation: Grading is based entirely on class participation and oral work product. This includes conducting opening statements, direct and cross examinations, and closing arguments in class. The course concludes with a mock trial which is the final examination. Students are expected to be familiar with the Federal Rules of Evidence.