Tulane offers extensive programs for students interested in developing their skills as litigators and as practitioners who have facility with and an appreciation for alternative dispute resolution techniques.
In addition to its curriculum in the substantive law of dozens of areas that could potentially become the subject of litigation, Tulane offers a comprehensive group of courses that form a strong foundation for litigation and ADR skills. These include basic civil procedure, complex litigation, evidence, federal courts, federal trial practice, civil and criminal discovery, alternative dispute resolution, and conflict of laws. Skills are developed in simulation courses, such as Trial Advocacy, Mediation Seminar, and Negotiation & Mediation Advocacy, as well as through our Moot Court program.
Externships are available with state and federal judges, with federal agencies in New Orleans, and with the Louisiana Justice Center. The latter opportunity focuses on death penalty cases.
Through Tulane's pro bono requirement, many students have the opportunity to acquire litigation or ADR skills under the supervision of attorneys while fulfilling the 30-hour pro bono obligation.
Finally, Tulane's clinical program provides the opportunity for experience in all aspects of the representation of real clients. Clinics are available in civil, criminal defense, juvenile, domestic violence, and environmental litigation. In addition, the Public Law Center offers clinical opportunities in legislative advocacy at the state level and in administrative advocacy in the context of state agency rulemaking.