The Summer Institute in Transnational Law and Practice
Get a great foundation in the structure, culture, and thinking of the U.S. legal
system and practice in just two weeks.
The Summer Institute in Transnational Law and Practice was developed by the University
of Washington School of Law - one of the world's leading centers for innovative
teaching and research on international, comparative, and U.S. law. Our extensive
experience in teaching and researching global and cross-jurisdictional issues translates
into two notable strengths of the Summer Institute:
- For International Practitioners and Legal Scholars
With the interdisciplinary and global legal practice and legal policy of today,
lawyers and legal scholars need a sophisticated understanding of legal and regulatory
systems beyond their own. For international practitioners and scholars seeking short
term professional development, the Summer Institute provides an excellent overview
of the American Legal System and Practice.
- For International LL.M./J.D. Candidates*
For international students planning to undertake a LL.M./J.D. program in the United
States at the University of Washington or at another law school, the Summer Institute
provides the skills needed to successfully complete their studies in a competitive
U.S. law school environment. Students trained in a Civil Law legal system will particularly
benefit from the introduction to the structure of legal reasoning in the U.S. Common
Law System, while refining both oral and written communication skills in English
within the U.S. legal context.
The Summer Institute program focuses on three areas--Introduction to the American
Legal System and Practice, Legal Skills and Methodology, and Legal English. Sample
topics include the U.S. Constitution; branches of government and sources of law;
criminal and civil court systems and procedures; alternative dispute resolution;
the common law system and introduction to contracts, property and torts; how to read and brief case law; and persuasive legal writing
and argumentation.
Using both traditional U.S. law school-style instruction and small group tutorials
and practice sessions, participants will familiarize themselves with the methods
of legal analysis and argumentation practiced in the United States in core legal
areas. All Summer Institute sessions are taught by law faculty and practitioners
who are experienced in cross-cultural communication.
Institute registrants will also have the opportunity to visit a courthouse and one
of Seattle's largest transnational law firms, as well as enjoy social events in
the beautiful University of Washington campus and around Seattle.
The Institute program is a full time two week program. Regular attendance is expected.
Download a
sample program schedule.
* Incoming foreign-trained LL.M. candidates in the University of Washington LL.M.
programs, especially those planning to take a Bar exam, should attend the Summer Institute. The LL.M.
programs will not duplicate material covered in the Summer Institute. Tuition for
the Summer Institute is separate from and in addition to the LL.M. program Tuition.
Location
All Summer Institute sessions will be held in William H. Gates Hall, the new building
housing the University of Washington School
of Law, centrally located on campus near downtown Seattle. Gates Hall and
the Law Library provide ample study space and complete wireless access, as well
as several available computer stations.
Both Seattle and the Pacific Northwest region enjoy mild summer climate and extended
daylight, and provide numerous attractions and recreational opportunities within
easy reach.