420.01 Trial Practice

This is the basic trial skills course covering Opening Statement, Direct Examination, Cross Examination, Impeachment, Exhibits, Expert Witnesses and Closing Argument. In sections of 12 students per section, students prepare and perform the various skills using simulated problems and case files. After each performance, students receive constructive comments from faculty members who are also experienced trial lawyers. Students also get videotapes of their performances. The course ends 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 are able to watch the jury as it deliberates.

Enrollment Pre-/Co- Requisite Information

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

Spring 2021

Course Number Course Credits Evaluation Method Instructor
420.01
Course Credits
Donald H. Beskind, Thomas K. Maher, Michael Dockterman
Sakai site: https://sakai.duke.edu/portal/site/LAW.420.01.Sp21
Email list: LAW.420.01.Sp21@sakai.duke.edu
Course
Degree Requirements
Course Requirements - JD
Course Requirements - LLM
Course Requirements - Public Interest
Course Areas of Practice