The Drexel Law curriculum is built on the basic principle that law schools teach students how to be lawyers. The law school's innovative Trial Advocacy Program is a core part of this commitment. The Trial Advocacy Program trains students in the essential practical skills of litigation. Our goal is to ensure that Drexel graduates are prepared to be litigators before they take their first case.

Our program unfolds over two quarters. First, in Pretrial Advocacy, students learn how to interview a client, plan pretrial investigation, identify and retain experts, and draft pleadings and motions. During the trial preparation phase, students also learn how to develop the cornerstone of any successful litigation strategy: a theory of the case. They also learn deposition strategies and techniques, as well as other discovery techniques. Pretrial Advocacy is a prerequisite to taking Trial Advocacy.

In Trial Advocacy, experienced trial lawyers and judges provide instruction in the “real world” of litigation. These distinguished trial lawyers and jurists teach effective trial techniques by providing live demonstrations relating to jury selection, opening and closing statements, and direct and cross-examination of lay and expert witnesses. Students also learn how computer technology is now used to create and introduce state-of-the-art trial exhibits that will enhance the presentation of evidence at trial. Trial Advocacy ends with a capstone experience: each student will litigate a mock trial in a real courtroom before a real judge.

Regardless of whether a student ultimately plans to litigate, the Trial Advocacy Program provides valuable lawyering skills. Advocacy is one of the fundamental aspects of almost every law practice. The Trial Advocacy Program prepares students to be strong advocates, regardless of their chosen areas of specialty.

Trial Advocacy Program Contact Information:

Gwen Roseman Stern, Esq.
Director and Auxiliary Professor of Trial Advocacy
Earle Mack School of Law
3320 Market St. Room 351
Philadelphia , PA 19104
215.571.4746
Email: gstern@drexel.edu