Lawyering Skills Program

Because the law is changing rapidly, and because the evidence is that most lawyers will change jobs and career emphases over time, today's law student needs both the skills and the knowledge necessary for lifelong learning and professional development. Southern Illinois University (SIU) was at the forefront of standard-setting and forward-looking law schools that train students in a wide range of skills required for legal practice.

Lawyering Skills I and II engage students in a critical understanding of the different models of lawyering and legal practice and professionalism and the ethical practice of law. Students learn about legal analysis and reasoning, legal writing, legal research, client interviewing, client counseling, advocacy, and negotiation. While the course encourages excellent individual skills, students also learn to work cooperatively with classmates.