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Mastering Courtroom Advocacy: Delaware Law School's Intensive Trial Advocacy Program

7/30/2024

Delaware Law School Campus BannersImagine stepping into the shoes of a seasoned trial attorney, mastering the art of courtroom advocacy in just seven days. At Delaware Law School, the Intensive Trial Advocacy Program, known as ITAP, offers a comprehensive, hands-on course that helps students acquire trial skills they can take with them into courtroom careers.

“My experience with ITAP was one of the best experiences I had at Delaware Law. The real-world experience is invaluable, said student, Leslie Durivage. “It was the first time, in my law school education, that the learning and the application came together.”

Conducted immediately after spring semester final exams, ITAP is a rigorous seven-day program that immerses law students in the intricacies of trial advocacy. With a curriculum crafted by distinguished trial attorneys, judges, and law professors, students engage in intensive training that covers every aspect of trial work, from developing a compelling theory of a case to delivering persuasive opening statements and closing arguments.

The program's schedule is designed to immerse students in real-life trial scenarios through a comprehensive and structured series of activities. Over the course of ITAP, participants engage in intensive training sessions that cover every aspect of trial practice, from foundational techniques in direct and cross-examination to advanced strategies involving expert witnesses and exhibits. Each day builds progressively, starting with fundamental skills and moving toward more complex tasks such as opening statements, closing arguments, and trial preparation. The program culminates in simulated jury trials, allowing students to apply their skills in a realistic courtroom environment, ensuring they gain practical, hands-on experience.

“Participating in ITAP was one of the most invaluable experiences I have had during my time in law school, " said Justice Gettle ‘25. “Collaborating with peers and receiving feedback from incredibly knowledgeable attorneys broadened my understanding of the trial process and the strategic nuances involved. I believe it is an opportunity that every law student should have.”

One of the standout features of ITAP is the E. John Wherry Jr. Distinguished Lecture in Trial Advocacy and Professionalism, named in honor of the founder of ITAP at Delaware Law School. Keynote speakers like Kevin O’Connell, chief defender at the state of Delaware Office of Defense Services, who addressed this year’s participants, share invaluable lessons from their careers.

“Find the reason to be passionate in what you do. Lean into it. That’s what will make you a better trial lawyer," O’Connell said. "You’re going to do great things. You’re going to do huge things. I promise you. You’re going to make huge mistakes. Don’t forget about them. Learn from it. Do better from it. Don’t be afraid to fail."

Alumna and former chief prosecutor for New Castle County, Diane Coffey ‘89, stressed the life-changing elements of her experience completing ITAP as a student, and contributing as a legal professional.

“It is truly rewarding to give back to the ITAP program what was so generously given to me as a student participant in the early John Wherry years, she said. “The ITAP total immersion method cured me of my shyness and lack of confidence when speaking to an audience. As an instructor, it is my hope and joy to demonstrate first-hand to students that they, too, will emerge from ITAP with the confidence and skills necessary to think on their feet and become a respected trial attorney.”