This course focuses on an advanced topic of legal writing, the writing done by judicial clerks and judges. The course structure will incorporate (1) lectures and short exercises, (2) multiple written assignments (such as a bench memorandum and a judicial opinion), and (3) occasional oral presentations or questioning of advocates. We will examine and practice the structure, analytical and rhetorical techniques, and tone of both trial court and appellate court documents. Through assigned readings and guest speakers’ insights, we will discuss the experiences of being a judicial clerk and being a judge, questions of ethics and professional development, and “hot topic” issues currently facing the judiciary. Although the course has an obvious appeal to students who hope to be judicial clerks, all students can improve their writing abilities through this writing-intensive course.

Additional Information:
Credit Hours: 2
Grading Option: Pass/Fail Only
Graduation Writing Requirement: No
Flexible/Upper-Level Writing Requirement: Yes
Skills Requirement: Yes
Simulation Course: No
Experiential Learning: No
Seminar: No
Prerequisite: Successful completion of two semesters of 1L legal writing
Special Withdrawal Course: No
Limited Enrollment Number: 16
Final Exam Given: Yes
Final Exam Type: Take-Home
Participation Points: Yes, consistent with College policies
Attendance Policy: Per Statement Of Student Policies

* The law school has a policy that is used to calculate credit hours. Please see the Statement of Student Policies.