Criminal Defense Practice

Designed to educate the student as to the importance of developing positive client relationships in order to fulfill their responsibilities as attorneys and counselors at law. Importance and methods of developing positive relationships with clients will be taught through a combination of lecture, demonstration, small group discussions of hypothetical situations, and participation in mock client interviews. Lectures will include ethical considerations as well as the requirements of the Standards of Practice for Indigent Defense Representation with respect to client communications and relationships. Special attention will be given to the challenges presented by clients with mental health issues and juvenile criminal defendants. The importance of developing and utilizing good interpersonal communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, will be highlighted.