Experiential learning for practical skills in prosecution law
In the Public Defender Clinic, students provide client-centered, high-quality representation to individuals facing felony and misdemeanor charges in the Maricopa County Superior Court and Justice Courts. Working under the close supervision of an experienced criminal defense attorney, students form meaningful client relationships, build trust and advocate at every stage of the proceedings.
Throughout the semester, students interview clients and witnesses, investigate facts, research legal issues, draft motions, negotiate with prosecutors and advocate for their clients in court. Students may handle a wide range of pretrial hearings, including plea proceedings, settlement conferences, evidentiary hearings and sentencings. In some cases, students will fully prepare for and participate in jury trials. Individualized feedback and mentoring is a core aspect of clinic work, helping students strengthen their judgment, refine their written and oral advocacy and grow into more confident practitioners.
To complement their casework, students also participate in a trial advocacy course. The course focuses on skill-building with exercises that emphasize effective communication, storytelling, persuasive advocacy and critical thinking under pressure. Through interactive exercises and practice using real cases, students receive hands-on training in every phase of trial, from voir dire and opening statements to cross-examination and closing arguments.