Students enrolled in this clinic prosecute cases at the San Jose Superior Court under the guidance of Santa Clara County prosecutors and a faculty supervisor. Students formulate case strategy, identify and interview witnesses, and advocate before the court at evidentiary motions or bench trials. Students should plan to devote at least two days each week to case preparation and court appearances.
There is one three-hour each week and occasional additional classes in the district attorney's office. At the beginning of the term, the classes focus on skills training, including case file management, interviewing techniques, direct and cross-examination, and argument. Toward the end of the term, the classroom focus shifts to an examination and critique of the local mechanisms of criminal justice. Topics include the impact of race, gender, and class on the quality of justice; the institutional strengths and weaknesses of the actors in the system; and the ethical issues that confront prosecutors, defense lawyers, and judges. Students are required to submit regular written reflections on their experiences in and observations.
Evidence is a prerequisite or may be taken concurrently. Courses in criminal procedure and trial advocacy are strongly encouraged.