Our Interview With Tamara Herrera, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law

Juris Education interviewed Tamara Herrera, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Distinguished Endowed Professorship in Legal Method at Arizona State University's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law for an exclusive look at what sets the school's Trial Advocacy Program apart.

What Makes the Trial Advocacy Program at ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law Stand Out?

The Trial Advocacy Program at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University offers JD students a distinctive, hands-on approach to mastering the courtroom. Through a carefully designed curriculum, students build the skills necessary for success in litigation, whether in criminal prosecution, defense, or civil cases. What sets ASU’s program apart is its blend of academic rigor and real-world application.

A standout feature is The Litigation Experience (LAW 780), a four-credit, simulation-based course that walks students through every stage of a civil or criminal case, from the initial client meeting to the final trial. Small groups of students work directly with experienced trial attorneys who serve as mentors, ensuring individualized feedback and practical insights.

Beyond core courses in evidence and procedure, students choose from specialized electives like Persuasive Speech, Electronic Discovery, Jury Selection, or Privacy, Big Data, and Emerging Technologies, further sharpening their advocacy skills. Experiential learning through clinics, externships, and moot court rounds out their training.

Earning the Trial Advocacy Certificate signals to future employers a student’s commitment to litigation and readiness for the courtroom. ASU Law’s program combines rigorous academics, practical experience, and mentorship — a formula that makes it a leader in preparing future trial lawyers.

Which Qualities Can Students Build During the Trial Advocacy Program at ASU's Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law?

Students in the Trial Advocacy Program at Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law develop essential qualities that prepare them for success in the courtroom and beyond. Through rigorous coursework and experiential learning, including The Litigation Experience course, students strengthen their oral advocacy, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making skills. They gain confidence in all aspects of litigation, from client interviews to courtroom arguments, while receiving mentorship from experienced trial lawyers.

In addition to these practical skills, students build professionalism, resilience, adaptability, and collaboration through hands-on opportunities like clinics, externships, and moot court competitions. Specialized courses help develop technical competence in areas like persuasive speech and courtroom technology.

Further enhancing these qualities, the Trial Advocacy Student Group offers leadership opportunities and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom. Through hosting speakers, debates, conferences, and networking events, students sharpen their communication, networking, and organizational skills while expanding their understanding of current issues in trial practice. These experiences foster a strong sense of community and connection to the broader legal field, helping students cultivate the professional relationships and confidence necessary to succeed as future litigators.

Juris Education is proud to interview experts at the nation's most renowned law schools for insights on what makes their programs unique and how they shape career-ready law students.