Trial Advocacy

The Cotchett Trial Advocacy Center, designed for performance and small group instruction, is used by the college's trial advocacy instructors in trial-skills simulation classes. In addition to computer-controlled cameras and state-of-the-art recording equipment, the Center's updateable technological foundation is configured to accommodate evolving 21st century technology in trial preparation and presentation.

Current offerings include:

• Problem Solving and Professional Judgment in Practice - Theory and application of interdisciplinary approaches to ethical and responsive decision-making taught through extended case studies and hands-on role playing.
• Roles and Ethics in Practice Problem - based and role-playing approach to ethical issues and skills in interviewing and counseling, fact investigation, and negotiation.
• Trial Advocacy I and II - Discovery techniques, pre-trial court conference, opening statement, direct and cross-examination, impeachment of witnesses, proper handling of documents and exhibits, use of demonstrative evidence, and closing argument, culminating in student participation in simulated trials.
• Trial Objections - Application of the rules of evidence through role-playing exercises intended to bridge the gap between Evidence and Trial Advocacy/Clinical Courses.