Law - JD

The Four-Year Program
John F. Kennedy University School of Law offers a four-year day and evening program leading to the degree of Juris Doctor (JD). Courses include every subject tested on the California Bar Examination, plus a variety of writing courses, electives and practical skills training classes. In addition, each student is required to participate in hands-on trial and appellate advocacy training, which provide direct knowledge and experience in what takes place in the courtroom.

The School of Law seeks to graduate well-rounded practitioners who are aware of the complex issues involved in legal cases, prepared for success on the bar examination, and ready to provide competent and caring representation to their clients.

Introduction to Law
JFK University School of Law begins its curriculum with a unique intensive Introduction to Law course commencing late July/early August for Fall admittees and mid-January for Spring. This course is designed to acquaint students with the judicial and legislative systems and to enable them to develop the intellectual and analytical skills necessary for reading cases and statutes, legal writing, basic research, and writing examinations.

Legal Analysis, Writing, and Research Program
Students are required to participate in a comprehensive writing program that trains them in legal analysis, writing, and research. The program is integrated with substantive and skills courses throughout the four years of study. Students enrolled in the program become familiar with a wide range of documents that are used in the practice of law.

Learning Beyond the Classroom
The School of Law at John F. Kennedy University emphasizes practical experience as well as classroom learning. Clinical opportunities are available with courts, government agencies, public interest organizations and private practitioners. Students may select individualized placements or may choose to take part in existing clinical programs. For example, we currently offer a clinical placement at Contra Costa County Legal Services and at the Contra Costa County, Solano County and Alameda County district attorney and public defender offices. Clinical placements offer flexible scheduling so that they are also available to students who are employed elsewhere.

Convenient Class Times
To meet the diverse needs of our student body, classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday from 7 to 10 in the evening and 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Electives are offered throughout the school week. - Law School Course Curriculum

To learn more about JFK University School of Law, click here.