Yungmoon Chang is an LLS student blogger.
A few weekends ago, I volunteered to be a witness during an on-campus practice for the Byrne Trial Advocacy Team. They were preparing for the National Trial Competition’s Regional Tournament. I knew Loyola’s trial advocacy program was ranked fifth in the nation, but other than that, I really had no idea what to expect.
I walked into Robinson Courtroom (incidentally, which is where I have Torts class), to find team members wearing suits. After being briefed as the defendant’s expert witness, I took the stand and participated in questioning, cross-examination, and re-direct. The defendant was claiming insanity, and my job as his forensic psychiatrist was to present his test results and my professional opinion in a way that would convince the jury he was mentally ill. Honestly, I never thought I’d be learning about the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory test in law school, but when in Rome…
Overall, I was very impressed by the professionalism and skill of the team members. The questions were clear, straightforward, and expertly formed so that there was no room for ambiguity in my responses. Professor Levinson judged the trial, and she was no-nonsense and extremely thorough.
One of the reasons I chose Loyola was because I wanted practical and hands-on opportunities in school that would prepare me for a career in litigation. Between the Byrne Trial Advocacy Team, the Scott Moot Court Team, year-round externships, and the Hobbs District Attorney Clinic, I think I’ve found more than enough to keep my hands full.
TOPICS: 2E, Experiential Learning, Externships, Hybrid JD