Civil Procedure at Fordham Law

Civil Procedure is a core component of the legal curriculum at Fordham University School of Law, delving into the rules and principles governing the litigation process in civil cases. Students engage with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure while also considering relevant state law implications. The course emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects, equipping future lawyers with the necessary tools for effective advocacy within the judicial system.

At Fordham, the curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking about procedural issues and their implications for the delivery of justice. Through case law analysis, class discussions, and practical exercises, students learn to navigate the complexities of jurisdiction, venue, pleadings, discovery, and motions. The course also highlights the significance of procedural fairness, the role of judges, and the importance of procedural strategy in civil litigation.

• 1Familiarize yourself with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and relevant state rules.
• 2Practice analyzing hypothetical scenarios to apply procedural rules effectively.
• 3Engage in study groups to discuss case law and procedural strategy.
• 4Utilize flowcharts to visualize the procedural steps in litigation.
• 5Review past exam questions to understand the format and types of issues typically tested.

Exams typically consist of essay questions requiring students to analyze hypothetical cases based on Civil Procedure principles, often assessing both knowledge of rules and their application to complex fact patterns.