Study

This is the basic trial skills course which for this semester will be taught virtually except that, conditions permitting, students who wish to try their case in person at the law school can do so.  The course covers Opening Statement, Direct Examination, Cross Examination, Impeachment, Exhibits, Trial Preparation and Closing Argument. In sections of no more than 12 students per section, students prepare and perform the various skills using simulated problems and case files. After each performance, students receive constructive comments both in class and during individual video review meetings with faculty members who are also experienced trial lawyers. The course regularly meets Thursday from 4-7 pm.  However, the first four sessions will be an intensive program with classes Thursday and Friday evenings, and half days on Saturday and Sunday, January 28-31, After the intensive session, regular classes will be held at the time previously mentioned.  The course ends before what would have been spring break, with a full jury trial of a civil or criminal case with teams of two students on each side. At the end of the trial, the jury deliberates and students can watch the jury as it deliberates.

Enrollment Pre-/Co- Requisite Information

Law 245 Evidence is a pre-requisite for Criminal Trial Practice. This course is not open to students who are taking, or have taken, Law 420 Trial Practice.

Fall 2021

Course Number	Course Credits	Evaluation Method	Instructor
422.01	Course Credits 3		Thomas K. Maher
Sakai site: https://sakai.duke.edu/portal/site/LAW.422.01.F21
Email list: LAW.422.01.F21@sakai.duke.edu