THE 2022 IN-PERSON SUMMER LEGAL ENGLISH PROGRAM 

The English for Lawyers Program will introduce foreign legal students and practitioners and incoming LL.M. students to legal English concepts and the U.S. legal system. Held at American University Washington College of Law’s Tenley Campus in summer 2022, students will gather in Washington, DC for this three week program. (While we are currently planning for an in-person program, if conditions change AUWCL will offer this program online.) Through daily class meetings, written assignments, and in-class listening and speaking exercises, participants will practice a wide array of legal English skills ranging from legal reading and writing strategies to oral presentation of substantive legal issues. 

This program concentrates on U.S. legal culture and the U.S. judicial system with a particular focus on legal terminology and pragmatics that will expose students to customs and conventions around lawyering, legal training, and the legal profession in the United States. The program will introduce students to fundamental  lawyering skills, including document drafting and oral advocacy, and practice simulations. To give participants ample opportunity to practice English in social as well as academic settings, participants are invited to a number of social gatherings and outings, including visits to legal institutions. (Site visits are subject to public health restrictions and will be confirmed at a later date.)

TOEFL 

This program is ideal for legal professionals and law students with at least high intermediate English proficiency. Although we do not require the TOEFL or other formal test, we ask that students self-assess at a B2 level or higher using the CEFR framework. 

CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE

Participants who complete the program will earn a Certificate of Attendance.

QUESTIONS

If you have any questions about the program, please email legalenglish@wcl.american.edu