Study

This is the basic trial skills course with a focus on criminal litigation. Prof. Maher is an experienced criminal litigator who currently represents clients in state and federal court. The class meets one night each week, and recorded lectures are available for students to view. The course covers Story Telling, Brainstorming, Opening Statement, Direct Examination, Cross Examination, Impeachment, Experts, Exhibits, Trial Preparation, Opening Statement and Closing Argument. The class is limited to 12 students so that each week each student will prepare and perform the various skills using simulated problems and case files, some of which are based on real cases and will allow students to work with actual recordings and other evidence. After each performance, students receive constructive comments both in class and during individual video review meetings. At the end of the semester students, typically in teams of two students, will litigate a mock criminal trial with jurors. Students who have not taken evidence, but who are enrolled in evidence, may take the class.

Enrollment Pre-/Co- Requisite Information

LAW 245 Evidence is required and may be taken in a previous semester or concurrently. This course is not open to students who are taking, or have taken, Law 420 Trial Practice.

Fall 2022

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-F22
Email list: LAW-422-01-F22@sakai.duke.edu