This course, with its antecedents, has been part of the UW Law School since 1948. Formerly known as General Practice, the Lawyering Skills Course stresses teaching the fundamental skills new lawyers need to practice successfully in a rapidly changing legal world. The foundations of the course remain what they have been for over 50 years: a dedicated and diverse faculty of skilled practitioners working directly with students who are learning their craft by "hands on" experience that realistically simulates law practice.
Our goals in choosing this teaching and learning method are to bridge law school and law practice, to enlarge students’ capacities to become better lawyers, and to encourage each student to enter into a career as a professional who is committed to service, integrity, lifelong learning, and personal growth. The resources of this course include a variety of practice-based materials; knowledgeable and accessible faculty/practitioners; and opportunities, both in and out of class, to practice and cultivate legal skills. But the greatest resources for your professional development in and after this course are the curiosity, energy, and dedication that you invest in your professional development.
This semester should be fun. This course affords unique opportunities to make new friends, enjoy old ones, help and learn from each other, and share some laughs. For most of you, the students and faculty you work with here will be your colleagues for the rest of your professional life.
We look forward to knowing and working with each of you. Let us know how we can help you in this course and in your professional endeavors. We hope you have an enriching and enjoyable semester.
Best regards,
Gretchen Viney, Director and Ralph Cagle, Clinical Professor
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