Persuasion in Practice

This course is designed for students who want to develop their persuasive skills outside the courtroom. Students will explore persuasive strategies in a variety of settings including advising clients, negotiating with opposing counsel, interviewing witnesses(including expert witnesses), and working with non-lawyers (including insurance adjusters, government officials, support staff, and courthouse staff). The course is divided into three units: a survey of different persuasion theories; a multi-stage simulation that tracks a legal matter from meeting the client through pre-trial investigation to settlement; and student oral presentations on topics that incorporate the persuasion strategies explored in the class.