Program Overview

Introduction to the Trial Advocacy LLM Program

The LL.M. in Trial Advocacy curriculum integrates the development of theory and theme, persuasive storytelling, extemporaneous speech, and effective use of technology in the courtroom. The program is performance-based, featuring a "learn by doing" approach.

About the Program

Designed for the practicing attorney, the program's 24 credits are completed in one year from August to April. Classes are scheduled one evening a week for three hours (6:00-9:00 p.m.) for the duration of the program. Weekly classes are conducted online via Zoom for all LL.M. participants. However, students must attend the August Bootcamp and subsequent scheduled performance weekends on Temple's Main campus in Philadelphia.

Program Details

• Time Limit for Degree Completion: 1 year
• Campus Location: Main campus for Bootcamp and performance weekend; weekly online synchronous class meetings
• Full-Time/Part-Time Status: The degree program is completed on a full-time basis.
• Non-Matriculated Student Policy: Students must be matriculated in the program to take courses.
• Financing Opportunities: All applicants for financial aid must submit a FAFSA form and complete the online Graduate Law Student Financial Aid Request Form.

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

• Application Deadline: May 15
• Admission Process: Admission is selective, and class size is limited. Applicants are admitted on a rolling basis. Late applications may be accepted if space is available. The cost to apply is $50.
• Letters of Reference:
  • Number Required: 2
  • From Whom: The reference letters must be written by law professors or legal employers who are well acquainted with your academic abilities and/or professional skills.
• Degree Required for Admission Consideration: Applicants must hold a Juris Doctor or other law degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association or must hold a first law degree from a foreign law school approved by the appropriate authority in that country.
• Standardized Test Scores: Unless a waiver is provided, applicants trained in a non-English-speaking country must report scores for a standardized test of English that meet these minimums:
  • TOEFL iBT: 88
  • IELTS Academic: 6.5
  • Duolingo: 115
• Interview: An interview with the Program Director is an integral part of the admissions process. Admissions decisions are based on application materials, advocacy and trial experience, career objectives, and the interview.

Program Requirements

General Program Requirements

• Number of Credits Required to Earn the Degree: 24
• Required Courses:
  • Plan of Study Grid Year 1
    • Summer II:
      • MLTA 0500 | Orientation | 1
      • MLTA 0501 | The Art of Advocacy | 2
      • MLTA 0503 | Evidence/Trial Lawyers | 3
      • MLTA 0504 | Speechmaking | 3
    • Fall:
      • MLTA 0502 | Expert Witnesses | 2
      • MLTA 0507 | Pretrl Stratgy & Discvry | 5
      • MLTA 0508 | The Jury Trial | 2
    • Spring:
      • MLTA 0505 | Litigation Strategy | 2
      • MLTA 0506 | Lecture Series | 2
      • MLTA 0508 | The Jury Trial | 2

Scholarship Opportunities

A number of partial scholarships to the LLM in Trial Advocacy Program are awarded each year to attorneys practicing in public interest settings. Awards are applied in equal amounts in the Fall and Spring terms.