Academic Advantages: SECOND YEAR

Advocacy training is a cornerstone of Cumberland School of Law's curriculum, equipping students with skills to prepare them for successful careers in the courtroom, boardroom or other areas. Skills courses for all aspects of lawyering are offered after students have mastered the fundamentals of torts, contracts, property, criminal law, civil procedure and evidence. These courses are limited to as few as eight students, ensuring each receives personalized instruction in the following:

• Negotiation
• Mediation
• Case preparation
• Trial evidence
• Jury selection
• Technology use
• Direct examination
• Cross examination
• Expert witnesses
• Closing arguments

Opportunities to strengthen trial-related skills are available through intra-school competitions. 

The Trial Advocacy Board sponsors the following:

• Mock trial and arbitration competitions, in which two-person teams present preliminary motions, opening statements, direct and cross-examination of witnesses, and closing arguments 

• Client counseling competitions, in which teams interview mock clients and are judged on their ability to communicate, elicit facts, advise, and recommend appropriate actions

• Negotiation and mediation representation competitions, in which teams are judged on how they use an effective combination of advocacy skills and problem-solving abilities. Participants learn about each other’s interests, brainstorm options, and select and shape a solution that meets their interests

The Henry Upson Sims Moot Court Board sponsors moot court competitions, simulating actual appellate arguments.

Students selected from these programs represent the law school in national trial and appellate court competitions.

Cumberland School of Law offers the Certificate in Trial Advocacy, a mark of excellence and achievement for students who excel in this area.
 

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