Study

This is the basic trial skills course covering Opening Statement, Direct Examination, Cross Examination, Impeachment, Exhibits, and Closing Argument. Depending on the instructor, Expert witnesses may also be a class topic. 

In sections of 12 students per section, students prepare and perform the skills using simulated problems and case files. Every student performs at every class.  After each performance, each student receives constructive comments from their faculty member.  Students video recordings of each of their performances and at least several are reviewed privately with the student’s instructor. Each faculty member is an experienced trial lawyer.

The course ends with a full jury trial of a civil or criminal case with teams of two students on each side. When the trial ends, the jury deliberates, and students can watch via a video and audio feed.

Enrollment Information: International LLM students wishing to enroll in this course must receive preapproval; to do so, they should contact the instructor, with a copy to the International Studies Office, attaching their CV and a brief description of their previous legal training and professional experience.

Please note: The Trial Practice Intensive is scheduled to begin on the evening of Thursday, January 15, 2026 and continue with sessions on Friday, January 17; Saturday, January 18; Sunday, January 19. Attendance is mandatory for each session.

Special Notes:

Ends before Spring Break

Enrollment Pre-/Co- Requisite Information

Law 245 Evidence is a pre- or co- requisite for Trial Practice.  This course is not open to students who are taking, or have taken, Law 422 Criminal Trial Practice.

Spring 2026

Course Number	Course Credits	Evaluation Method	Instructor
420.01	3		Donald H. Beskind, Mark Anderson
Canvas site: https://canvas.duke.edu/courses/74775