Advanced Legal Research and Writing

The purpose of this course is to offer students an opportunity to gain in-depth working knowledge of legal research methods both in print sources and in electronic formats, as well as opportunities for directed practical writing experiences. The research tools explored will be both more sophisticated and more complex than those offered in the legal research component of the first-year RRWA class. The practical writing experience will include, among other things, a client letter, a memorandum and an instrument. The research and writing will be integrated throughout the course so that the writing will be done within the context of the research. The course will focus on the development of pragmatic research methodologies, including the identification and use of practice materials not generally presented in law school. Students will gain experience communicating information collected from research to clients and counsel.