Summer 2015 Course Schedule

Supervised Ext Seminar (LAW-769-007)
Popper

Meets: 06:00 PM - 08:50 PM (Th) - Room 503

Enrolled: 20 / Limit: 22

Administrator Access


Notices

IMPORTANT: This is a three credit graded class. Due to the condensed summer schedule the seminar meets for 2 hours and 50 minutes each week PLUS students meet with faculty in small groups for an extra half hour every week. The time/place of this extra meeting is determined by the professor. REGISTRATION: There are two parts to registering for an externship: 1) Register on-line for the seminar as you would for any class. 2) Register for the field placement by going to the Externship Page www.wcl.american.edu/externship and submit a Request for Approval, which generates the necessary forms.

Description

This is a three-credit graded course. It is taken concurrently with a field placement in a non-profit or governmental organization, or a private law firm handling pro bono matters exclusively. The seminar is open to students who are externing at all different types of placements – courts, state and federal agencies, trade associations, non-profits, pro bono offices in law firms, prosecution or other law enforcement offices, public defender offices, etc. The more diverse the backgrounds, the better. The seminar explores some of the roles lawyers play in the private sector, public interest practice, and government. Federal and state agencies are among the most active litigants in the American legal system, bringing and defending a large volume of cases in courts and administrative tribunals. The experience of negotiating or litigating for or against the government has some special characteristics, but also shares characteristics common to all types of legal practice. Simulations are used to explore various aspects of litigation including depositions, negotiations, a narrative exercise, and a mediation. In addition, a good deal of time is devoted to the transition from student to lawyer and to the pragmatic and personal challenges relevant to entry-level lawyers in both private and government practice.

Textbooks and Other Materials

The textbook information on this page was provided by the instructor. Students should use this information when considering purchases from the AU Campus Store or other vendors. Students may check to determine if books are currently available for purchase online.

Course materials for this externship seminar will be posted on MyWCL. There are no materials to purchase.

First Class Readings

First Assignment: Please be prepared to describe briefly your externship placement including the number of hours you intend to work, the tasks likely to be undertaken, the nature of supervision, and any insights, issues, or challenges you anticipate. In addition, please read pp. 1-17 and, anticipating the second week of class, skim through to page 62 of the course materials.