Research and Writing for Judicial Clerkships (Formerly - Judicial Opinion Writing )

Students will learn about the role of judicial clerks, including the typical responsibilities of judicial clerks, and they will learn about various forms of judicial writing done by trial and appellate court clerks.  Students will recognize the impact of written advocacy on judicial writing as they switch roles from advocating as a lawyer to deciding issues raised by the advocates and writing opinions that implement subtle persuasive writing techniques. Students must critically read judicial files, including parties’ briefs; they also will conduct research, analyze the facts and law from a judge’s perspective, and apply the correct motion standard or standard of review. Students will develop a deeper understanding of the process for creation of legal precedent through opinions. With individualized feedback, students will develop precision in self-editing and revision skills and will practice producing concise, clear, and accessible written work.. This course satisfies the experiential learning requirement.