A Competition That Will Challenge You
The Client Counseling competition challenges students to apply what they have learned to situations typical of ones they will confront in practice.
Students work in pairs and participate in a simulated interview situation with a potential client who is experiencing legal problems. The competition underscores the importance of providing clients appropriate legal counsel and the need to combine legal knowledge with a sensitive, empathetic approach.
The competition is open to all students; traditionally, many first-year students have participated and done well.
The intra-school portion of the competition takes place in the fall and determines which students will represent Gonzaga Law at regionals in the spring.
Note: For the intra-school competition, there is usually little outside work required. Expect to think and act on your feet.
Before the Competition
- A seminar is held before the competition begins to discuss client interviewing techniques and provide general information regarding the competition itself.
- All students are welcome and encouraged to attend this meeting, regardless whether or not they have selected a partner.
At the Competition
- During the competition, students working in pairs participate in a simulated interview with a client who is experiencing problems.
- The students must interview the client, identify his or her problems, and provide appropriate advice.
- The client’s problems are similar to those dealt with by attorneys in a general practice
- Competition events last between two and five successive nights over a one-week period.
- Each team participates in at least two rounds.
After the Competition
Winners advance to the regional competition and, if they win there, may go on to the national and international competitions.
Who Competes
This competition is open to all students, although the majority of participants are in their first year of law school.
To Learn More
Contact Gail Hammer, faculty adviser.
