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This year’s first-year law students have the great fortune of observing two trials during the First Year Trial Practicum; one regarding assault causing injury and the other possession of a firearm by a felon.
The advantage to students comes not only in observing the step-by-step process of a trial, but also in access to those involved in the trial. The judge, attorneys, and jurors all spend time with the students following the trial, allowing them to get answers to questions and a better idea of the process.
The Honorable Michael Huppert, LW’82, presided over the first case. The prosecuting attorney was Kevin Hathaway, who was assisted by a Drake Law student intern.
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Drake’s trial practicum dissects every phase of a trial, from jury selection to jury verdict, incorporating small group discussions, lectures, practice panels and debriefings with attorneys, judge and jurors. This event is possible only with the active cooperation of the judiciary, law enforcement, and the bar.
A unique opportunity for any student, the First Year Trial Practicum is thought to be the only one of its kind in the country.
For more information about the FYTP program, contact Jerry Foxhoven, executive director of the Neal and Bea Smith Legal Clinic and professor of law (515-271-2073, jerry.foxhoven@drake.edu).