Interviewing, Counseling & Negotiation (ICN) is a seminar that gives students a chance to analyze in depth the relationships between attorney and client and between attorney and opposing counsel. It is a practical course that will teach students skills that are essential in virtually all areas of the practice of law. Too often attorneys fail to appreciate how difficult it can be to conduct a meaningful interview of a client or to understand the professional and ethical issues that may arise when interviewing and counseling a client or negotiating a successful resolution of a case. This class will give the students a practical framework that will serve them well throughout their legal career.
In this class, students will examine and practice interviewing skills and will explore the role of the attorney as counselor. Students will learn about theories of decision-making in the lawyer/client relationship and how to identify client values. They will look at negotiation theory in depth as well as techniques for conducting a successful negotiation. Throughout the course, students will observe and practice interviewing, counseling, and negotiation. Guest speakers will bring their expertise to a variety of discussions, including client intake, interviewing different types of witnesses, and the attorney-adjuster relationship.