CRIMINAL PRACTICE CLINIC

Catalog description

Satisfies Experiential Learning requirement. This course will emphasize intensive skills training in the classroom, supplemented by structured, carefully supervised criminal practice experience in a limited number of prosecutor and public defender offices. Skills covered in class and field placements willinclude interviewing of clients and witnesses, case planning and investigation, plea negotiations, written and oral motion practice, witness examination in hearings and trials, and trial preparation. There will be required readings for the class component andrequired videotaped simulation exercises. The class meets intensively through the first two weeks of the semester. Students will work a minimum of 32 hours per week in a participating fieldwork placement (information is available in the Externships Programs Office, 333 Golden Gate, Rooms 401 & 402 or by emailing Prof. Nira Geevargis, [email protected], Director of Externship Programs). It is expected that all of the placements will involve students making court appearances, and students must be certified by the State Bar of California under the Student Practice Rules. Please note: Students enrolled in the Clinic should take no more than 2 additional units during the semester and should avoid courses that meet before late afternoon. Students are required to attend an organizationalmeeting in the semester preceding their enrollment in the Clinic. For 4th, 5th, or 6th semester students with preference given to students in their 5th or 6th semester. Preference for enrollment in the Clinic may beaccorded to students who are enrolled in or havecompleted the Criminal Law & Theory Concentration Seminar. To apply, email Theresa Hoskins-Ford, [email protected], early in the semester before the semester of desired enrollment to confirm your eligibility and attend mandatory organizational meeting(s).