Practice Ready

The economic model of law firms has changed.

Firms that once hired straight out of law school are now forced to re-evaluate efficiencies. Training young lawyers takes time and costs money that is increasingly difficult to justify. As a result, firms have pleaded with law schools—schools with curriculums steeped in theory with little attention devoted to the actual skills required to enter practice—to introduce practical training.

At the same time, with technology reshaping entire industries, the skill sets critical to the practice of law are also evolving. Emphasis on standard, process-driven skills is giving way to increased focus on the ability to manage multi-layered, complex issues for clients. As expectations for attorneys increase, the term “professional” takes on new meaning.

For years, Baylor Law has been ahead of the curve, equipping its students to practice law the moment they walk out the door. From the first minute of orientation—the language used, the time demanded and the expectations set—it is all about becoming a professional.

PRACTICE.

Here, students learn to engage clients, craft and deliver opening statements, examine witnesses and conduct multiple jury trials all the way through closing arguments and verdict—just like in practice.

They learn to write contracts, do trademark applications, craft sales agreements, and negotiate on behalf of their client—just like in practice.

They learn to translate theory, research, preparation, analytical thinking, written advocacy skills and attention to detail into strategic tools that create a winning case—just like in practice.

And along the way, they learn to balance the demands of full caseloads, the responsibilities to their clients, the time requirements for preparation and the emotional pressures that come with representing people and businesses whose futures hang in the balance—all with the priorities of one’s family, faith and life—just like in modern practice.

READY.

The legal profession refers to graduates who begin their law careers uniquely prepared to practice on day one as “practice-ready.” Today, that term is synonymous with the title of “Baylor Lawyer.”

 

---