Appellate Advocacy Practicum

Mission and Clients                  

This practicum enables students to work directly on Appellant briefs in cases where appeals from serious felony convictions are pending before the Colorado Court of Appeals or Colorado Supreme Court. In addition to instruction by the adjunct professor, students will have an opportunity to work with an attorney appointed to the case by the Alternate Defense Counsel of Colorado. Instruction in oral advocacy will also be a component of this course. Enrollment is limited to 8.

Scope                  

Students assist an appellate team on a pending state criminal appeal, including issue spotting, drafting an opening brief and preparing the case for oral argument. Offered in the fall semester only; 3 credits; open to 2Ls and 3Ls; no prerequisites, but Evidence and Criminal Procedure strongly recommended; no application. This practicum is for students who want detailed experience preparing a criminal appeal, with intensive writing and instruction in oral appellate advocacy.