LAWS8055 · Law

Introduction to Practice in the Criminal Justice System

Boston College Law School

1L Elective In this class, students will engage in various aspects of a simulated criminal trial, which will give students the opportunity to develop some of the lawyering skills inherent in criminal practice, including how to interview clients, argue motions, engage in plea negotiations, break down a statute, fact investigation, & plan for a trial. Students will also be confronted with the important ethical issues that face counsel in criminal cases. The course will begin with an overview of the Criminal Justice System, including perspectives from various system mechanisms - police, court system, prisons, defense attorneys & prosecutors. As this is an introductory course, it is necessary to introduce a variety of law school courses including professional responsibility, criminal law & criminal procedure. The goal is to have students become familiar with the criminal justice system, gain experience through simulations & think critically while performing tasks within the practice of criminal law.