HAMLINE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR LAWYER ACHIEVEMENT (L.O.L.A.)

We have three goals for you:  (1) to graduate from law school; (2) to pass the bar; and (3) to be a successful lawyer.  In other words, a legal education is preparing you for a professional career, not just for graduation day.

WHAT ARE LEARNING OUTCOMES?  THINK OF IT AS A ROADMAP TO YOUR SUCCESS AS A LAW STUDENT AND LAWYER  WE WILL HELP GUIDE YOU, BUT ULTIMATELY IT IS UP TO YOU !

Self-reflection is an important part of being a lawyer (and a human being)  See LOLA # “HUSL graduates should be able to reflect on one’s own work and professional development.”

How did we develop LOLA?  We reviewed relevant studies and literature and thought about our own experiences to come up with a list of the knowledge, skills and professionalism that is needed for success as a lawyer.  ….a HUSL educated lawyer.

The Details…..

GOAL # 1: KNOWLEDGE  Acquire the conceptual frameworks and substantive knowledge needed for competent professional service as a new attorney and as a basis for lifelong learning.

The components of knowledge...  Demonstrate competence in key foundational areas of U.S. law, including areas of substantive law tested on bar examinations  Demonstrate competence in other student-elected areas of substantive law  Demonstrate knowledge of the structure, components, and functioning of the U.S. legal system, including the markets for legal services  Demonstrate an understanding of the operation of law in a global context.  Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical rules that govern the legal profession.

GOAL # 2: SKILLS  Learn, practice, and apply the skills and methods that are essential for effective lawyering.

The components of skills...  Identify and apply strategies to discover and achieve client objectives.  Master appropriate strategies and technologies to retrieve, use and manage research materials and information effectively and efficiently.  Comprehend and synthesize the reasoning and rules contained in legal authorities and apply them to a variety of client situations.  Communicate effectively in writing and speaking with diverse audiences in a variety of formal and informal settings.  Demonstrate a capacity to understand and appreciate the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of clients, colleagues, adversaries, and others while dealing sensitively and effectively with the issues presented.  Advocate, collaborate, and problem-solve effectively in formal and informal dispute resolution processes.

GOAL #3: PROFESSIONALISM  Develop the personal attributes, attitudes, and practices befitting an honorable and respected profession.

The components of professionalism...  Acquire the knowledge and skills required to competently represent one’s clients (see the lists above).  Articulate the roles lawyers play in promoting justice, improving the legal profession and serving the community.  Exercise professional decorum consistent with a lawyer’s professional responsibilities and leadership roles.  Reflect on one’s own work and professional development.  Engage in effective time management.

QUESTIONS