University of Illinois College of Law students have a remarkable array of
practical lawyering experience available through the Law Practice Group (LPG). The Law Practice Group combines a variety of clinical experiences
(both in-house and outplacement), simulations such as negotiations, fact investigation, trial team and moot court experience, externships, and legal writing to form a comprehensive yet diverse series of experiential learning opportunities for students.
In addition to traditional legal studies, Illinois law students enjoy a variety of active learning opportunities that apply principles to practice. Analytical thinking, interviewing, problem-solving, counseling, research, and negotiation are critical skills needed for real-world success. Encountering a breadth of practice experiences during law school also helps develop an increasingly important ability to practice law in and with diverse cultures at home and around the globe.
Beginning in the first year, the Legal Research and Writing course includes interviewing clients and oral advocacy. During the second and third year, students may learn through action in courses on Negotiations, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Pre-Trial Skills, Trial Advocacy, and Advanced Trial Advocacy.
To further develop these key skills, the College offers seven Clinical Programs where students solve real problems for actual clients — four in-house clinics and three outplacement clinics. The in-house clinics, including the Civil Litigation Clinic, the Transactions and Community Economic Development Clinic, the Domestic Violence Clinic, and the International Human Rights Clinic, provide hands-on experience that draws directly from the knowledge and skills gained in the classroom. Outplacement clinical opportunities through the Legislative Advocacy, Appellate Defender, and Externship programs offer a vast array of active learning sites away from the College.
