Drake University Law School was awarded an A- ranking for trial advocacy by prelaw Magazine, placing Drake among the top schools in the nation.

The publication based the rankings on law schools’ offerings in trial advocacy, including programs and opportunities that allow students to develop their ability to deliver arguments, evidence, testimony, and substance. The results are reported in preLaw’s Winter 2024 issue.

The recently established Matt and Laurie Doré Endowed Fund earned Drake Law School a special call out as a leader in trial advocacy.

Drake Law alumni Brian Kennedy (LW’91) and Elizabeth Van Arkel (LW’12) provided lead gifts to establish the fund which will support the moot court program. The Dorés were longtime faculty members at Drake Law before their retirement in 2023. Both professors were involved in coaching and supporting moot court programs. Their commitment to practical training has had a tremendous impact on the lives of thousands of Drake Law School alumni.

“Creating robust opportunities for competition teams is a key component of our program,” said Dean Jerry Anderson. “With increasing travel costs, as well as compensating coaches, that requires a significant investment of resources. The Doré fund has allowed us to not only maintain, but even expand the number of students who can have these important formative experiences.”

The full ranking can be found on page 38 of the preLaw Magazine Winter 2024 issue.