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From Awkward Law Student To Articulate Attorney: Teaching The Oral Research Report, Sarah J. Morath

Akron Law Faculty Publications

Busy attorneys want results quickly and in a clear and organized manner. Many prefer associates to report their research results orally in a face-to-face conversation rather than a written memo. In the first year of law school, however, there are not many opportunities for students to practice having conversations about the law in a thoughtful and professional manner. While the Socratic dialogue common in most first year courses challenges students to think on their feet, this method does not teach students how to describe their research path, explain their analysis of a client’s legal issue, or make a recommendation on …