This course introduces students to the ways lawyers write to persuade. In a hypothetical criminal case in state court, students draw on the useful facts from the record, synthesize rules from cases, and analogize and distinguish cases in a closed universe. Students receive feedback from the instructor on multiple drafts before submission. Students then submit one persuasive brief on a motion in the conventions of the Bluebook. This course depends on participation; attendance is mandatory. Grading reflects written work, class preparedness and participation, and professionalism. This course is part of the required first-year JD curriculum.
2 units · Law Honors/Pass/Restrd Cr/Fail
This course introduces students to the ways lawyers write to persuade. In a hypothetical criminal case in state court, students draw on the useful facts from the record, synthesize rules from cases, and analogize and distinguish cases in a closed universe. Students receive feedback from the instructor on multiple drafts before submission. Students then submit one persuasive brief on a motion in the conventions of the Bluebook. This course depends on participation; attendance is mandatory. Grading reflects written work, class preparedness and participation, and professionalism. This course is part of the required first-year JD curriculum.
Offered in Autumn 2026 at Stanford University.