Spring 2024 Federal Criminal Defense Practicum

We offered a Federal Criminal Defense Practicum for 2L and 3L law students in Spring 2024. This 8-week program started in mid-January and involved weekly sessions during the lunch hour addressing the intricacies of federal criminal defense practice. Each session was led by a federal District or Magistrate Judge or another instructor associated with the federal courts.

The Practicum was offered at no cost and is not offered for class credit. Topics include:

• Three Ways to Commence Formal Criminal Proceedings

• Initial Appearance, CJA Appointment, Arraignment, and Detention Hearing

• Scheduling Order, Pretrial Motions, Speedy Trial, and Motions to Suppress

• Plea Negotiations and Agreements

• Change of Plea Hearing and Trial

• Pre-Sentence Investigation, Report Preparation, and Objections to PSR

• Sentencing

• Post-Sentencing Motions, Appeals, and 28 U.S.C. § 2255

Participants had an extraordinary opportunity to receive substantial practical instruction on federal criminal practice and interact with an incredible group of federal practitioners and experts.