Q: The Academy of Law & Leadership?
A: The Academy of Law & Leadership is an intense study of law and leadership skills, held each summer on a college campus for high school and college preparatory students - ranging in ages from 15 to 18.
Q: What is the purpose of The Academy?
A: The Academy is intended to help high school students develop personal communication skills, analytical skills, presentation skills, self-confidence, teamwork skills, plus many, many more aspects of their self-development. It is truly intended to assist a student in reaching for higher potential within oneself. The Academy uses trial advocacy and the mock trial format to help instill these skills in each student.
Q: How is The Academy structured?
A: The Academy has two parts, the Law Module and the Leadership Module.
The Law Module is based upon a real-life criminal case - in which the names have been changed -- which climaxes with the students presenting the case for a mock trial live in front of a trial judge. Each student will be evaluated and given insights on how to improve their presentation and persuasion skills, analytical skills, and their critical thinking skills…just to name a few. During the Closing Ceremony of the Academy, the students will learn the real-life outcome of the case (and it is amazing).
The Leadership Module is the other half of the program. History has shown that the students become extremely engaged in the excitement of presenting a criminal case for trial. However, teamwork and leadership skills are best developed outside the courtroom. The Leadership Module is just the answer. Students engage in activities that focus on developing life-skills, such as teambuilding, trust, citizenship and duty, and negotiation and mediation.
Q: Where will The Academy be held?
A: The Academy will convene at the University of Denver College of Law, in Denver, Colorado.
Q: How long is The Academy?
A: The program is ten days. Each day is structured to include group activities, smaller breakout sessions, and outdoor activities.
Q: Is a student required to have any prior mock trial experience?
A: No. On the first day of the school, each student will be teamed up with two other students to form their three-person legal team. This team will represent either the Prosecution or the Defense in the mock criminal case. Each student will portray both an attorney in their trial, and also serve as a witness in another trial.
During the two weeks of The Academy, the students will attend lectures on how to conduct a direct examination, a cross examination, an Opening Statement, a Closing Argument, and all of the other components of a real trial.
Additionally, each student is teamed with a Teaching Assistant/Team Leader who is experienced in the rules, procedures and strategies of Mock Trial. After each lecture, the students meet with their Team Leader, to provide each student individualized attention.
Q: Is The Academy only for students who want to pursue a career in the legal profession?
A: No. The Academy is intended for any student who is looking to learn more about themselves, the law and meet other students. Perhaps most importantly, students will gain a competitive edge as they prepare for college. The skills and knowledge gained will train each student in a manner not available from their high school classes.
Q: Who teaches the students?
A: The Academy faculty is comprised of licensed practicing attorneys. These are people who are experienced trial attorneys with accomplished trial records and leadership training experience. This is in addition to an array of guest speakers and lecturers.
Q: What is the tuition of The Academy?
A: The 2008 tuition is $1,800 and includes all instruction, course materials, one-on-one mentoring, leadership activities, meals, and rooms and board. Tuition does not include non-academy transportation.
Q: Are tuition scholarships available?
A: Scholarships are available! All interested students are encouraged to apply for a scholarship. Complete the scholarship request form and submit for review. Students interested in a scholarship should also complete the registration form submitting at least the application deposit.
Q: What is the Dress Code during The Academy?
A: Students are able to wear casual attire during regular class time; however, business attire is required during the final competition and awards ceremony. Appropriate clothing is necessary for extracurricular activities. Detailed clothing needs are provided in registration packet upon acceptance to The Academy.
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