"Adjunct Faculty - Introduction to Mock Trial and U.S. Court System"

Position Purpose:

Aurora University seeks talented adjunct faculty who are passionate about teaching and learning. Adjunct faculty are qualified part-time instructors offered teaching opportunities based on course demand and staffing.

This position seeks an experienced legal professional to serve as both an Adjunct Professor for the "Introduction to Mock Trial and U.S. Court System" course and as coach for the institutional mock trial team . The role involves instructing students—many with limited or no prior experience—in fundamental legal principles, courtroom procedures, and trial advocacy skills. A significant component of this position includes leading and mentoring the mock trial team, requiring additional time and commitment beyond scheduled course hours.

This hands-on course introduces students to mock trial and the fundamentals of the U.S. court system. Designed for those with little or no prior experience, it covers essential legal concepts, courtroom procedures, and trial advocacy. Through simulated trials that mirror real courtroom dynamics, students develop critical skills in litigation, legal reasoning, and oral advocacy. The course also fosters communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities applicable across various professional settings.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, students will:

• Understand key legal principles and courtroom procedures.
• Demonstrate foundational trial advocacy skills.
• Gain practical experience through mock trial simulations.
• Be prepared for mock trial competitions.
• Enhance transferable skills such as public speaking, analytical thinking, and problem-solving.
• Develop a deeper appreciation for the legal system and litigation processes.

Essential Job Functions:

• Teach the "Introduction to Mock Trial and U.S. Court System" course as described, providing an immersive and hands-on learning experience.
• Deliver instruction on essential legal concepts, courtroom procedures, and trial advocacy skills, tailored for students with limited prior experience.
• Facilitate simulated trials and practical exercises that allow students to engage with real-life courtroom dynamics.
• Guide students in understanding litigation nuances and legal argumentation.
• Equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills for success in mock trial contexts and competitive participation.
• Develop students' transferable skills in communication, critical analysis, and problem-solving.
• Serve as the Mock Trial Team Coach, overseeing the selection, training, and preparation of students for mock trial competitions.
• Dedicate additional hours outside of the standard course schedule for coaching activities, including team practices, strategy sessions, evidence analysis, witness preparation, and competition travel and support.
• May include periodic travel for competitions.
• Course Schedule:
• Scheduled for one hour per week on Wednesdays (Day Session) .
• Runs for 16 weeks during both fall and spring semesters.
• Coaching responsibilities require additional hours beyond class time.

Essential Job Requirements:

• A law degree (Juris Doctor) is required .
• Experience as a first chair in trials is required .
• Preferably more than 5 years of litigation experience .
• Mock trial teaching or coaching experience at the undergraduate or law school level is preferred .
• Ability to effectively teach legal concepts and trial advocacy skills to students with little or no prior experience.
• Strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Skills:

The anticipated pay rate for this position is $1,000 per credit hour. This compensation is subject to change at the sole discretion of the university, based on institutional needs.