This course is designed to familiarize students with the practice of civil litigation prior to trial. The class follows a case from the initial investigation stages through pleadings and discovery, ending with a settlement conference. We will use the same civil case (to be assigned) throughout the semester for simulation exercises.
For the written assignments you will be responsible for working independently. For some of the other simulations you may work in teams. Your grade will be based on your written work, your performance on the oral simulation exercises, and your participation in class. Class attendance is required and meeting the deadlines for the written assignments is a factor in your final grade.
Topics, reading, and assignments (including grading) for each week are included in the following syllabus. We may periodically update this syllabus as the semester progresses. Following the syllabus is further information on class grading.