Certificate in Advocacy and Problem-Solving (CAPS)

The Certificate in Advocacy and Problem-Solving, exclusively for Hamline JD students, offers you a window into new ways of conceptualizing and delivering justice. The program puts you in the best position to deliver value to employers and clients who recognize that the best lawyers are skilled problem-solvers.

Practice Perspectives Requirement
In addition to the coursework listed below, students must also complete a “Practice Perspectives Requirement.” Working with a CAPS advisor, students plan a set of experiences to enhance their personal goals. Students must complete 6 activities including:

2 CAPS Colloquia: DRI-sponsored programs exclusively for CAPS students and alumni
Professional Education (minimum one): Examples include CLE programs, community ADR training, and other educational programs
Advocacy (minimum one): Examples include attending a court proceeding, attending a legislative hearing, or volunteering at legal services
Problem-Solving (minimum one):Examples include volunteering at a mediation center, participating in Community of Peace student conflict resolution leadership training, shadowing a neutral or lawyer conducting a mediation, or participating in a restorative justice program

Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the 22-credit CAPS curriculum.

CAPS Coursework

Foundation Courses (7 credits)
LAW 9335 - Theories of Conflict
Students may substitute Conflict Theories, offered by HSB, for Theories of Conflict.
LAW 9570 - Negotiation
LAW 9307 - Evidence
LAW 9321 - Trial Advocacy
LAW 9562 - Arbitration
or
LAW 9329 - Introduction to U.S. Arbitration Law: Domestic and International Aspects
Advocacy Practice (3 credits)
Qualifying Courses:
LAW 9502 - Advanced Legal Research
LAW 9610 - Clinic
LAW 9650 - Externship
LAW 9651 - Externship: Semester in Practice
LAW 9567 - Legal Drafting
LAW 9736 - Competition
LAW 9627 - Pretrial Skills
LAW 9899 - Skills Lab
Electives (4 credits)
All courses offered in DRI January Term, Summer Institute, or Study Abroad (other than courses required above), and a wide array of pre-approved electives from the regular law school curriculum, including conflict of laws, federal courts, comparative law, remedies, restorative justice, and multiple seminars and/or selected topics are offered each semester on advocacy and ADR topics.The Course Planning Guide, which is updated in advance of each registration period, has a complete list of qualifying elective courses.