Hands-On Learning

Every first-year student at Willamette Law participates in a moot court competition, where they research and write an appellate brief and argue their case before a panel of judges. This rigorous process helps students develop critical legal writing and oral advocacy skills. Those who advance to the finals may argue up to five times and compete for awards based on their performance. As students progress through their legal education, they can choose from a variety of moot court competitions, including national and specialized competitions such as the National Appellate Competition, the Environmental Law Moot Court Competition, and the Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition. Local attorneys and judges serve as evaluators, and law school professors act as coaches, ensuring a high-quality learning experience.

Learn about Moot Court Board

To be an effective advocate, it's not enough to simply read about negotiation or trial lawyering - you need to practice these skills. Willamette Law offers simulation-based courses that allow students to engage in realistic legal scenarios. These courses provide a safe space for students to experiment and refine their skills without the pressures of real-world consequences. Taught by both full-time faculty and top-tier practitioners, these courses integrate doctrine and theory with practical application, helping students build the confidence needed to excel in the legal profession.

Willamette Law offers extensive opportunities for second- and third-year students to gain hands-on trial experience. Our Intensive Trial Practice, a week-long program offered in the winter, immerses students in courtroom exercises, trial preparation, and lectures. The course culminates in a full trial, where students present a case before an Oregon judge and a citizen jury. Additionally, our semester-long Trial Practice course offers students further opportunities to hone their advocacy skills. Guided by experienced judges and trial attorneys from across the country, students gain invaluable insights into the jury trial system, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in the courtroom.

The Externship Program at Willamette Law immerses students in the fast-paced world of practicing lawyers. By partnering with attorneys in various legal settings, students gain real-life experience in diverse legal contexts, from corporate law to public interest work. Externs have the flexibility to choose placements that align with their career goals, whether it’s working with in-house counsel, state and federal agencies, or private law firms. Willamette students have completed externships with a wide range of hosts, including legislative offices, nonprofit organizations, and legal services providers. This program allows students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world legal challenges, providing a valuable foundation for their future careers.

Learn more about our externship program

The Clinical Law Program at Willamette University offers students the opportunity to represent clients in real cases under the close supervision of experienced faculty. This hands-on experience allows students to develop essential lawyering skills, from client interviewing to trial litigation. Our clinics cover areas such as trusts and estates and immigration law, providing critical legal services to clients who might otherwise be unable to afford representation. Through this program, students not only learn to "think like a lawyer" but also "be a lawyer," gaining practical experience that prepares them for the demands of the legal profession.

• Clinical Law Overview
  • Trusts and Estates Clinic
  • Immigration Clinic
  • Criminal Defense Clinic

The Pro Bono Honors Program at Willamette Law encourages students to engage in community-based legal service projects, enhancing their learning while making a positive impact. Students volunteer with government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and legal aid offices, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as direct legal services, policy advocacy, and mediation. The program recognizes students who complete significant pro bono work, with special honors for those who contribute the most hours. Participating in the Pro Bono Honors Program is not only a way to give back to the community but also an excellent opportunity to build practical experience and strengthen your resume.