Spring 2022 Newsletter

Spring 2022 Issue 7 • Volume 1

THE

EXHIBIT
Golden Gate University School of Law's Litigation Center Newsletter

A WORD FROM THE INSIDE THIS ISSUE

LITIGATION CENTER Baxter Office Updates Pg. 2

By the Director of the Litigation Center, Rachel R. Brockl Society of Litigators Pg. 3

National Trial Team Pg. 4

While we are only halfway spring did not disappoint. The Moot Court Team Pg. 5
through the month of March, this Center hosted two inspiring
semester has already proven to be women who tackled the topic of Seminar Series Overview Pg. 6
a productive one! bullies in the legal profession,
three panelists from different Students Recap Seminar Series Pg. 7
This semester, I am co-instructing areas of the court system to
the pre-STEP elective, discuss how to better the juvenile Student Recaps Cont'd. Pg. 8
Introduction to Litigation. The justice system, and a GGU alum
students in this class learn the who shared his expertise in Student Recaps Cont'd. Pg. 9
basics of courtroom advocacy and trying cases involving both
ethical conduct. This class is the victims and officers in police Internship Highlights Pg. 10
starting point to many litigators' misconduct cases. Several
lifelong careers in trial work. I am litigation students volunteered to 1st STEP Program Pg. 11
proud to say that we have a strong read the biographies of these
group of future litigators in this speakers and write opinion piece Summer/Fall 2022 Courses Pg. 12
class. Each student has a unique articles, which you can find
background with intriguing life featured in this newsletter. Corner of Gratitude Pg. 13
experience that shines through in
their presentations. The diverse Our Litigation students have UPCOMING

experience of our students ranges been busy! Many of them have
from paralegals to law taken on internships, mock trial EVENTS AND
enforcement, from government and moot court competitions,
workers to advocates for child teaching assistant positions, ACTIVITIES
victims. This is a promising student organization leadership,
group, and I cannot wait to see and more. The ambition and 5TH ANNUAL
them blossom in the STEP drive of our upcoming GGU GOLDEN GRIFFIN
Program this summer! lawyers is energizing and
encouraging. I am excited to see CHALLENGE
As in past semesters, the panelists what the future holds for them. AUGUST 26, 2022
from our Seminar Series this
1ST STEP MENTORSHIP
Litigation Center Awards PROGRAM
Ceremony
Applications due
Join us to celebrate APRIL 22, 2022 April 8th by 12:00 p.m.
& win raffle prizes. 12:00 P.M. Email [email protected]
To RSVP contact ZOOM See page 2 for more information.
the Baxter Fellow!

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 2

1ST STEP MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

The Litigation Center is proud to offer the 1st STEP Mentorship Program, which is focused on
providing summer STEP students with additional support while undergoing intense programming.
Mentors are comprised of STEP graduates and GGU alumni who can relate to the challenges
experienced in law school. Mentors commit to their mentees for 8 weeks during the summer and
are celebrated at the 1st STEP Reception at the completion of the Program.

Becoming a mentor is an honorable way to give back to GGU, gain valuable experience, and is an
appealing addition to your resume. Email [email protected] by 12:00 p.m. on April 8th to
apply!

A NOTE FROM THE BAXTER OFFICE

APPLY TO BE A BAXTER FELLOW TODAY!

The Judge Lee D. Baxter Fellowship in Litigation is an The Honorable Lee D. Baxter
opportunity for a law graduate to work with the GGU Litigation
Center and litigation professors, as well as guide students by
teaching litigation skills and working with the National Trial
Team. The Baxter Fellowship trains graduates who aspire to
expand their practical litigation skills by working with GGU
students. Come and help GGU students build the basic trial
skills needed to become great trial attorneys in the legal
community! 

The Baxter Fellowship includes working with the National How to Apply
Trial Team, teaching trial and evidence skills during the 1st for the
STEP Program, organizing the In Vino Veritas  mock trial
competition, and so much more!  BAXTER FELLOWSHIP

The Litigation Center is now accepting applications for the (1) Download the application from
2022/2023 school year. Students planning to graduate in May the Litigation Center TWEN.
or recent GGU law graduates with demonstrated academic (2) Fill out the application,
success and a proven commitment to the Litigation Center may
apply. including your resume, personal
statement, and references.
Email [email protected] for an application
or go to ggulitigation.com. (3) Submit to Professor Brockl by
email at [email protected] by
April 8th, 2022.

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 3

SOCIETY OF LITIGATORS

CROSS & CLOSE 2022

The Bernie Segal 1L Cross and Close Competition is held every year in January at the beginning of the Spring
Semester. During the Fall semester, members of the Society of Litigators attend our Lunchtime Litigation Series
every Wednesday to learn the skills they need to bring to the competition, such as: how to conduct an effective cross
examination, refreshing or impeaching a witness, and strategies to deliver a closing argument that the jury won't
soon forget. All participants in Cross and Close are 1L members of the Society of Litigators who may be vying for
admission into the Summer Trial and Evidence Program (STEP), trying out for Mock Trial their 2L fall, or just
passionate about litigation and looking for an opportunity to test their skills in the courtroom.

The Cross and Close fact pattern is released on a Sunday night. In five short days, by Friday, each team must be
prepared to deliver both a cross examination and a closing argument to win their case in 15 minutes total. A coin flip
at the beginning of the first round will determine which team member is performing which task for the first trial
(who crosses first, who closes first), so both teammates must be prepared to play either role. The competition has
historically been as small as 10 teams and as large as 20 teams of two. Only four teams move on to the second and
final round, where the teammates will switch roles and have one last chance to cross, close, and out-score the other
teams in 15 minutes. The Final Four round is open to the public, so classmates, professors, friends, and family are
welcome to come see their loved one take on the competition.

Unfortunately, the competition was cancelled this year due to a low number of sign-ups. However, the Litigation
Center wants to recognize the students who signed up to participate for showing initiative. The following students
will be given priority consideration for acceptance onto GGU's National Mock Trial Team should they choose to try
out in the fall by participating in the Golden Griffin Challenge. Keep up the hard work!

Christopher Lau David Bertini Alexis Lovell Victoria Holmberg
Briana Perez Michael Foley Mariela Soto Erik Camacho

Blockchain Symposium

April 20th, 2022 co-sponsored by:
The Society of
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Litigators

Lunch will be provided!

Hosted by GGU SALDF via Zoom
APRIL 16TH, 2022

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 4

GGU NATIONAL MOCK TRIAL TEAM

2022 MOCK TRIAL CO-CHAIRS

ELIAS HERNANDEZ MONIQUE RAMIREZ

Thank you to Elias Hernandez for his Thank you to Monique Ramirez for her
continued support and commitment to hard work, dedication, and leadership.
the Litigation Center during law school. We look forward to seeing all you will
We wish you luck on your next chapter! accomplish next season! See page 10 to
See page 13 to read more about Elias's read more about Monique's experience at
journey as a litigation student. her internship this semester.

SPRING 2022 TEAMS

Team TYLA: Monique Ramirez (2L), Elias Team CAPITOL CITY: Rachel Clift (2L), Claudia Wu (2L),
Hernandez (3L), Gwendolyn West (2L) Christina Robinson (2L), Khuong Do (2L)
Coach: Butch Ford
Coaches: Dustin Cameron & Clodagh Mauchline

Team AAJ: Bethany Cahill (3L), Edward Mora (2L), David Lima (2L),
Ashley Llamas (2L), Evelyn Gonzalez Caro (2L)
Coaches: Ashley Lotti & Mackenzie Parker

Special Thanks

Special thanks to Elias Hernandez for stepping in to assist the Capitol City team by playing the role of the defendant
from their case file at their competition. After his own mock trial season ended, Elias went above and beyond by
attending Capitol City team practices and carving out time in his busy schedule to work with team members.

Golden Griffin Challenge 2022

Are you  interested in trying out for the GGU National Trial Team?
The 5th annual GOLDEN GRIFFIN CHALLENGE will take place on
August 26th, 2022. The challenge is an intra-school competition  as
well as try-outs for the National Trial Team for the 2022-2023 season!
Teams of two argue a cross examination and a closing argument from
a fact pattern that is available one week prior. A $500 award is split
between the winners. Ask how you can sign up!

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 5

APPELLATE ADVOCACY AND MOOT COURT BOARD

CONGRATULATIONS TO GGU'S MOOT COURT TEAMS!

ABA NAAC Competition

Congratulations to GGU's ABA National Appellate
Advocacy Competition team for its spirited performance
in February. Team members Stephanie Cruz, Berenice
Quirino, and Camila Valdivieso, along with alternate
Tanaz Asli, did a tremendous job both attacking and
defending a blind plaintiff’s right to purchase candy from
a corporate defendant with a substandard website. The
team performed better in each round. All of the
competitors, along with Coach Zywicke and bailiff
Victoria Holmberg, had a great time. Congratulations
team on a job well done!

Environmental Law Competition

Congratulations also to GGU's Environmental Law moot court
team, which competed in the Jeffrey G. Miller National
Environmental Law competition in February. After many weeks of
intensive preparation, team members Arnaldo Gallegos and Justin
Reyes successfully competed alongside teams from across the
country, demonstrating true professionalism and strong advocacy
skills. They certainly made GGU and their coaches proud.
Congratulations to Arnaldo and Justin!

"By Participating in a Moot Also, good luck to GGU's Traynor moot court team,
Court Competition at which recently submitted its written brief, has done a
GGU, you will develop the fantastic job practicing oral argument, and is heading to
most important skills that competition in April. Go Traynor team! We are rooting
you need to succeed as a for you!
lawyer, no matter what
kind of lawyer you want to 1L Litigation Center
become."

- Elizabeth Fishman,
Associate Professor
of Law

Spotlight

The Litigation Center would like to extend a huge thank you to David David Bertini
Bertini, who has volunteered and assisted the Center even before starting
as a 1L! Dave is a first-generation law student who is starting his second
career. Dave enjoyed a successful, 34-year career in law enforcement,
working at the Pacifica Police Department for 25 years and the Menlo
Park Police Department for 9 years. Dave worked numerous assignments
and retired as the Police Chief in 2020. His love for the law started when
he became a police academy instructor and Adjunct Professor at the
College of San Mateo, where he still teaches constitution and criminal
law, interrogation, officer safety and survival, and ethics.

Dave has also been heavily involved in Rotary International for over 20 years and has
participated in and led numerous local and international projects, including a project in
India where he assisted in the vaccination of over 2,000 children against polio. Dave
holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from St. Mary’s College and a
master’s degree in military history from Norwich University. Dave’s future goals include
working with law firms that defend police officers.

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 6

SPRING SEMINAR SERIES

Identifying and Outsmarting Bullies in the
Legal Profession - February 2022
Lynne Curry and Heidi K. Brown led a virtual seminar where they
walked attendees through navigating workplace bullying in the
legal profession. The panelists taught law students and attorneys
how to spot the three types of bullying, identify the seven types of
workplace bullies, respond in various scenarios, and recognize why
they were targeted in the first place.

The Challenges of Juvenile Justice - March 2022

Melissa Demetral, Jennifer Redding, and Chris VanOrden
discussed the complexities of their roles within the juvenile justice
system. They spoke about the difficulty of balancing the competing
interests of rehabilitating youths while also holding them
accountable for their actions, making communities safer, and
improving the overall effectiveness of the court system.

A Look at Both Sides: Representing Victims and
Officers in Police Misconduct Cases - March 2022

Civil Rights Litigator and GGU law alum, Shawn Barnett, shared
his experience of what it is like to represent both victims and
officers in police misconduct cases. Shawn provided attendees
with his insight on case preparation and best practices from
working on both sides of the aisle.

GABRIEL FERNANDEZ SCHOLARSHIP

In February 2021, in collaboration with a generous donor, Professor Brockl assisted in creating the
Gabriel Fernandez Scholarship. The memory of Gabriel will live on with this scholarship, which will
be granted to a GGU law student who shows a commitment to, or outstanding work in, the field of
criminal prosecution against child/domestic abuse. The application period is April 15th - June 15th.
Contact the Baxter Fellow for application materials.

SEMINAR SERIES RAFFLE WINNERS

Thomas Langtry & Amelia Zurbriggen: copy of Untangling Fear in Lawyering:
A Four-Step Journey Toward Powerful Advocacy by Heidi K. Brown

Monique Ramirez, Vidhi Bhatia, Sydney Mastey & Rachel Clift: copy of
Beating the Workplace Bully: A Tactical Guide to Taking Charge by Lynne Curry
Payton McNamara & Danniela Nieto: donation in recipients name to Fresh Lifelines for Youth

Edward Mora: GGU Ballpoint Pen Miranda Thompson: GGU Mug
Payton McNamara: Professional Portfolio Ashley Faulkner: GGU License Plate Frame




Recordings of the spring seminar series panels can be found on the Baxter Fellow
YouTube Channel. Subscribe to stay informed of ongoing events and competitions.

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 7

STUDENT RECAP ON THE EVENT "IDENTIFYING AND

OUTSMARTING BULLIES IN THE LEGAL PROFESSION"

The outsmarting bullies event provided much-needed awareness on how to
spot bullies as well as what to do when you are a victim of bullying. Lynne
Curry, a qualified court expert in the area of bullying, went through the
forms of bullying as well as the different types of bullying. She discussed
how when someone is being bullied, our bodies physically react normally
with more rapid breathing. The rapid breathing restricts the use of both
sides of our brains, which makes it difficult. This is especially true for left
hemisphere dominant people to speak or react to the situation in front of them. Lynne Curry
explained that the best way to get access to both hemispheres of the brain again is to do coastline
breathing. Coastline breathing can be achieved by taking a couple of seconds to notice your
breathing and even closing your eyes to focus more.

Heidi K. Brown, an experienced attorney, presented after Lynne Curry and explained what bullying
can look like in a legal setting. The legal field is filled with bullying encounters. Heidi pointed out
some of those scenarios as well as an action plan on what to do when you encounter them. First, to
trust your feelings. Second, to pause, assess, and plan. Third, do a mental reboot, and finally,
channel your inner athlete. I found this extremely helpful to know that there are steps to take if
faced with a situation like this throughout my legal career. Both speakers were extremely helpful in
shining light on the issue of bullying and what we all as a community need to do next to change the
work environment. When there is bullying happening in the workplace there is no need to stay
silent. - Rachel Clift, 2L

The Identifying Bullies in the Legal Profession speaker event was very
informative and insightful! My favorite part of the event was when we
were asked to notice the change in our breathing when faced with
someone’s aggressive tone or behavior. I have never realized the change
in my breathing when faced with aggression. Before this event, I did not
realize the various kinds of bullies that may be present in the legal
workplace, but this event opened my eyes to the different types of bully
personalities and characteristics.

Because the legal profession is such a male-dominated field, I found much value from this event as
a woman in the legal field. Women’s voices and roles are often undermined, but learning the
different ways to address bullies in the legal field were valuable takeaways from this awesome
event! I feel more confident in identifying and dealing with potential bullies in the legal workplace.
It was also very inspirational to hear the speakers talk about their own experiences with bullies in
the workplace and how they overcame the obstacles. Thank you, to the Litigation Center, for
putting this event together! - Monique Ramirez, 2L

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 8

STUDENT RECAP OF THE EVENT

"THE CHALLENGES OF JUVENILE JUSTICE"

Jennifer Redding, Melissa Demetral, and Chris Van Orden guided us through the challenges that surface in
the juvenile justice system and how our increased awareness on these issues can help facilitate protecting
juvenile interests. The speakers specifically focused on how different rehabilitation programs can help deter
minors from future reoffending, as well as the differences that exist between juvenile cases and the adult
system. Each speaker offered unique perspectives on their contributions and experiences regarding juvenile
justice. On the topic of why rehabilitation may be a more appropriate option for juveniles as opposed to
punishment, Redding, who represents juveniles in Santa Clara County as Deputy Public Defender,
highlighted that rehab for juveniles is preferred because it focuses on the “youthful brain” being a factor to

causing harm and allows us to ask why a child may have engaged in a particular behavior that led them to cause harm. Demetral, Deputy
District Attorney of Alameda County, explained that district attorneys are statutorily mandated to work with juveniles’ attorneys to come
up with the best option for the child. Van Orden, a probation officer of 14 years, explained that the juvenile system has changed over time.
Currently, there is a heavier emphasis on community, as well as a focus on trauma and breaking down the silos on how the professions
operate in the community. Van Orden also touched on how these mental health-based, trauma-based, and family-based programs are
essential to the future of juvenile justice.

Further, all speakers addressed the different challenges they face in their distinct job positions while working in the juvenile system, and
touched on the essential programs that help combat these challenges. Redding expressed that her biggest challenge is her inability to help
her clients despite her diligent efforts to do so. Similarly, Demetral expressed that it can be challenging to determine what is best for the
community when she is only able to view the juvenile’s police report and see them in court for hearings. One of my main takeaways is
that although professionals working in the juvenile system have different job functions, they have the same objective, which is to help
children become better for society and deter them from reentering the system. These speakers were clearly passionate about helping
juveniles, and it was a pleasure to see that they are protecting juveniles’ interests for a brighter future toward juvenile justice.
- Ashley Faulkner, 1L

I attended the Challenges of Juvenile Justice panel and learned a lot about the world of juvenile law. One of
the speakers, Melissa Demetral, has spent her career prosecuting cases involving both juveniles and adults
in Alameda County. She said one of the biggest differences between the juvenile and adult court system in
California is that juvenile court’s focus on rehabilitation. Moreover, there is a growing trend to move away
from displacing children into juvenile halls outside of their communities and, instead, focusing on
rehabilitation close to home. Juvenile courts focus on achieving this goal by asking “why.” Consideration of
a child’s life circumstances leading up to their offense makes a difference in understanding how their
situation affected their choices and how that could change through appropriate judicial action.

Jennifer Redding, of the Santa Clara County Public Defender’s Office, also spoke to the changes happening in the juvenile justice system,
specifically noting the changes in how juveniles can be interrogated, how defense attorneys working with juveniles must be trained, and
the amount of care given to juveniles in the system. These reforms have emphasized meeting a child where they are, both physically and
psychologically. There is research that supports both the idea that children are not informed enough to face law enforcement
interrogations without legal representation, as well as the idea that juveniles need additional support from the legal system to ensure that
their rights are looked after. These changes are applied differently throughout the state, but ultimately, they are leading the state juvenile
system in the right direction.

Chris Van Orden works in Napa County with juveniles through various rehabilitation programs. Mr. Van Orden discussed the importance
of accomplishing rehabilitation within a juvenile’s own community. He talked about the various ways the probation system is working
towards this goal, such as providing local housing and short-term, residential, therapeutic programs where parents are directly involved in
the rehabilitation process. The probation system is using more tools to keep a child inside their community, establish strong foundations at
home, and support the child directly in order to promote positive changes in their life.

All three speakers on the panel talked about the challenges of working in the juvenile justice system. There is a level of secondary trauma
present when working with juveniles that is not as tangible when working with adults. When working with juveniles, you get to know the
child and their circumstances - their why - but most times you are unable to change very much about it. A common challenge faced by
professionals working within the juvenile justice system is the limitation placed on your ability to impact the child’s life by supporting
them in matters that extend beyond the scope of your job within the system.

The speakers on this panel provided transparency regarding challenges that currently exist and changes that need to happen within the
system, but left attendees with a hopeful impression for where this system is headed. - Olivia Corwin, 1L

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 9

STUDENT RECAP ON THE EVENT

"A LOOK AT BOTH SIDES: REPRESENTING VICTIMS

AND OFFICERS IN POLICE MISCONDUCT CASES"

Everyone has the right to be represented. On March 15, 2022, Shawn Barnett, a successful and seasoned
Civil Rights litigator, as well as a GGU alum, spoke to students about the ins and outs of representing both
victims and officers involved in police misconduct cases. This topic is extremely relevant to this day and
age, seeing as there always seems to be a new case of police misconduct being brought to the nation’s
attention. Throughout his informative presentation, he expressed what it takes to be successful for your
client regardless of which side you are representing as an attorney. Though it may seem hard to represent a
police officer accused of misconduct, as Mr. Barnett pointed out, it does not matter if the person is “good,”
or “bad,” everyone has the right to be represented.

Mr. Barnett explained step-by-step how to represent a plaintiff bringing forth a police misconduct claim, as well as how to represent a
police officer in the same situation. For example, for plaintiffs, he made sure to highlight the importance of gathering evidence such as
photos, videos, medical records, and Freedom of Information Act requests. All of these items are pertinent to investigating the initial
claim. He later described tips about the process of moving forward with the claim, highlighting the significance of discovery, depositions,
and how to represent your client, clarifying how necessary every single detail of the process is to the overall case.

Similarly, when representing police officers, the attorney must gather the police records, check the criminal and civil docket for the
plaintiff’s litigation history, and speak to non-defendant officer witnesses who were present at the scene. One interesting point about
representing a police officer is that the officer may be eligible to receive qualified immunity, which is a doctrine that shields state actors
from civil liability.

Overall, Mr. Barnett informed GGU students about the behind-the-scenes civil process of police misconduct cases, which is very
important seeing as how prominent these cases are today. He reminded everyone that regardless of how hard it may be to represent
someone accused of police misconduct, it is important to remember that everyone has the right to be adequately represented. - Miranda
Thompson, 1L

On March 14, the Litigation Center was fortunate to welcome 2013 GGU graduate and current litigator for
Hale & Monico in Chicago, Shawn Barnett. Shawn, who also holds an LLM from Loyola, has been on both
sides of police misconduct cases. Shawn started his career as an attorney for the City of Chicago defending
civil suits and claims against police officers in both Federal and State Court. Shawn spoke about the need
police have for strong advocates against false claims, and the fact that many times everyone in an officer’s
chain of command are named in these lawsuits. Having experienced being on the receiving end of 28 USC
1983 federal lawsuits, I would see that Shawn would have been a great advocate, as he was both poised and
knowledgeable.

Shawn is now an attorney whose firm represents clients who are injured by “state actors” and police misconduct. He spoke about his
desire to help clients who have experience mistreatment at the hands of police and can use his knowledge of defending these claims to his
clients’ benefit. Understanding how municipal bureaucracies work can be a great benefit when dealing with them from the side of the
plaintiff.

Shawn gave us a step-by-step discussion about the DO’s and DON’T’s from both sides that are necessary to prevail in these cases from:
informal discovery to pleadings, pre-trial and trial to adjudication. He quoted many FRCP rules we should all be familiar with from Civil
Procedure (become very familiar with Rule 12(b)(6)!). He also spoke about the advantages and disadvantages of filing in Federal Court
vs. State Court, getting into jury pool make up, and different rules on remedies.

Shawn also touched on the rules of qualified immunity, a subject that has been in the national news after several recent high profile police
use of force cases. He spoke about how the immunity held by police, could only be overcome if a constitutional right was proven to have
been violated and that right was clearly established at the time of the alleged violation. He commented that it is a high bar to overcome.

This fascinating talk was a great overview and peek into civil litigation involving police misconduct cases. - David Bertini, 1L

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 10

PUBLIC DEFENDER OFFICE

INTERNSHIP HIGHLIGHTS

Since August of 2021, I have been a certified legal extern with the Santa Clara County Public Defender’s
Office. My litigation training and experience with the GGU Litigation Center and positions before law
school earned me a position with a senior attorney at the public defender’s office, working primarily on a
high-profile murder case. While at the Santa Clara Public Defender’s Office, I have assisted my
supervising attorney with extensive trial preparation, involving over 3,000 pages of discovery and heavy
appeal documents. In addition, I have had the opportunity to engage in case strategy, client interviews,
analysis of expert witness documents, and attend court on preliminary matters. Along with the high-profile
murder case, I am assisting with a few other homicide cases and help with case strategy and with drafting

various legal documents. I feel so grateful to be able to step into the real-world criminal practice setting and feel confident with assisting
on matters that affect the lives of indigent clients. Working on this super high-profile case has been so insightful and exciting! My favorite
part of working on the case is discussing case strategy and the different moving parts of the case. It feels like a chess game, but it feels
similar to what I was exposed to in STEP and in Mock Trial! I am set to stay with the Santa Clara Public Defender’s Office this summer
and will be promoted to a full-time Research Clerk position where I will be able to write and argue various motions in court, under the
supervision of attorneys. - Monique Ramirez, 2L

This semester, I have the opportunity to intern at the Santa Clara Public Defenders Office, under Public
Defender Ashanti Mitchell. The 1st STEP Program fueled my dream to be an advocate, and as an intern I
am living my dream. The cases I primarily work on involve clients facing felony charges that carry double-
digit sentences. Although the cases I am working on are hard on the heart, I know that it is worth it because
I am helping someone that needs my assistance.

Each week, I get the opportunity to work on a variety of cases ranging from sexual assault to armed
robbery. Every case is so different, so it is astonishing see how my supervising attorney tackles each
unique case. At this internship, I have gotten the opportunity to create summaries of facts, sit in on
meetings with clients, and draft examinations for preliminary hearings. During client meetings, I get to witness my supervising attorney
relay deals from the District Attorney, explain different options available, and connect with his clients. Overall, I am thankful for this
learning experience because it has reassured me that my dream is to work in criminal defense. - Khuong Do, 2L

This semester, I have the privilege of interning at the San Francisco Public Defender’s Office (SFPD). My
supervising attorney is Assistant Public Defender Bonnie Chan (a GGU alum!), who works in the serious
felonies department.

During the first week, I was in court all the time. I followed Bonnie around the Hall of Justice, sometimes
ping pong-ing between different departments (protip: the stairs are faster than the elevators). When I
started, I did not comprehend half of what came out of the judge and attorneys’ mouths—a lot of
abbreviations for terms I did not recognize. Although the first week was overwhelming, it was also
invigorating because I was learning so much!
I then began sitting in on plea discussions. One highlight was attending a plea settlement in chambers. Watching the judge, district
attorney, and public defender sit down and speak frankly about a case to negotiate a fair outcome was eye-opening. The collegial, yet still
professional environment, pleasantly surprised me—at one point all of us laughed at how a room full of accomplished women were
struggling so hard with math.

As an intern, I have also attended client meetings, written various pretrial motions, coordinated programming and pretrial diversion
transfers, appeared on the record in court, and am set to orally argue a 995 motion (motion to set aside the information) after spring break.

One thing I appreciate most about this internship is that my supervising attorney always sets aside time for a one-on-one discussion after
every session I observe so I can ask questions. For example, after the in chambers plea settlement, Bonnie and I discussed the significance
of the entire settlement, and she explained to me the strategic choices she made during the negotiation. These sessions are invaluable to
me because I acquire so much wisdom from being able to freely pick the brain of a public defender who has over a decade of experience.

My internship at SFPD has proven to be a comprehensive, quality experience. I really appreciate the fact that I am assigned to one
attorney (rather than acting as an intern for the entire office) because it exposes me to the full spectrum of what it takes to be a good
public defender. My time at SFPD continues to be an enlightening and positive experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity and
excited for what’s to come! - Claudia Wu, 2L

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 11

1ST STEP 2022

SUMMER TRIAL & EVIDENCE PROGRAM

Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021

IMMERSION WEEK (MAY 23-27)

Rachel Brockl Will Morehead Jennifer Redding  Erik Faussner
Curtis Briggs Jody Mask Carlos Concepcion Harriet Scott



CORE STEP PROFESSORS

Trial Evidence and Advocacy Evidence

in the Courtroom This required bar course is taught by a

Students learn practical trial skills necessary judge and includes a survey of the
to succeed in court, including conducting
witness examinations, laying foundation for principles of law and rules governing the
introducing documents and physical
evidence, making and answering objections, admissibility of proof at criminal and civil
and preparing opening statements and
closing arguments. Additionally, students trials. This includes direct and cross-
learn how arguments under the rules of
evidence and evidentiary rulings play out in examination of witnesses, impeachment of
the courtroom. Students conduct two full
trials over the course of the summer where credibility, expert testimony, hearsay,
they hone their advocacy skills and
experience what it is like to be a trial privileged communication, and Judge Samas
attorney.
Director Brockl documentary proof. Students learn specific
Professor Briggs Motions
Judge Steckler rules of evidence, then immediately apply
A first impression of a lawyer is often based
on the quality of his or her papers. That this knowledge in their Trial Ad course.
impression must be a good one. This course
teaches students how to effectively draft Professional Presentation
motions and argue them in a real-world
setting. Utilizing a variety of fact patterns, & Persuasion
students will develop a portfolio of written
work and will receive feedback aimed at This class supports the goals of the 1st STEP Professor Scott
building confidence in courtroom advocacy. Program. It offers an experiential learning
environment by helping students translate
complicated details and legal jargon into
compelling stories that juries will follow with
ease. Students are given the skills required to
become fully present in the courtroom, learn
to think on their feet, and are taught how to
engage with and speak naturally to their
listeners. Students work towards eradicating
nervous tics and self-conscious habits
undermining their presentations.

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Pg 12

SUMMER 2022 LITIGATION COURSES

Introduction to Depositions TUES 6:30-8:10pm
Professor Martiniak

Most civil lawsuits are won and lost in discovery. Develop a strong foundation for one of the most critical

phases of civil pretrial discovery - the deposition. Learn techniques and strategies developed to maximize

your time during a deposition and to get at the heart of the other side's case. This course will cover how to

prepare for a deposition, effectively use documents during a deposition, deal with difficult counsel, and

defend against a deposition.

Professional Presentation & Persuasion

Whether you are in the courtroom, or working with colleagues or clients, as a lawyer you must communicate

and present your ideas in a compelling manner moving others to action. This class will prepare you to excel in

the courtroom, eliminate nervous tics, and to think on your feet and capture the attention of all your listeners.

**This course will also be offered in the Fall 2022 semester** MON/THURS 4:30-6:10pm
Professor Scott

FALL 2022 LITIGATION COURSES

Overcoming Civil Litigation Obstacles

Using actual trial court case examples and milestone appellate decisions, students will apply creative

strategies in role-playing exercises and written work assignments often assigned to associate attorneys:

opinion letters, motions, reports to clients, and appellate briefs. Guest lecturers will provide diverse

perspectives on how a recently-admitted lawyer can make a difference. WED. AFTERNOON
Professor Castoria

Sexual Assault in Criminal Practice

Any successful prosecutor or defense attorney will need to know how to handle sensitive cases, including

those involving sexual assault. This course will examine these types of cases from start to finish, including

investigation, the filing of criminal charges, trial, and sentencing, as well as the complex social issues and

public interest surrounding these cases. Prerequisite: Evidence. AFTERNOON
**For fall, this course will focus on sexual assault only, not domestic violence** Professor Morehead

Trial Advocacy  EVENING
Judge Torpoco

Learn the basic skills needed by every lawyer going to court: conducting direct and cross examination of

witnesses, introducing documents and physical evidence, making and answering objections, and preparing

opening statements and closing arguments. Taught by a judge, the final examination in this course is a full trial.

Advanced Trial Advocacy EVENING
Professor Vielman-Reeves

This course is intended for students interested in pursuing careers in litigation and provides advanced

practical techniques while promoting mastery in the courtroom. Utilizing case strategies, students will present

simulated trials while effectually utilizing technology. Students will examine expert witnesses, learn witness

control, and writing assignments will focus on advanced procedural and evidentiary issues. Prerequisite: Trial

Advocacy or STEP or permission of the professor. ​

Mock Trial & Advanced Mock Trial

Competition

TEAM PRACTICES 
MON/THUR - 6:00-9:00 PM & SATURDAY - 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

INVITATION ONLY

*An additional trial advocacy course may be offered during the daytime in the fall
*An Evidence course will likely be offered in the fall

*Additional courses for Fall 2022 may be added prior to registration

Spring 2022 The Exhibit Issue 7 • Vol 1 • Page 13

Corner of Gratitude

GGU Graduates Reflect on the Significance of
the Litigation Center 

GGU’s Litigation Center provided me with the most valuable experiences I received during my time
in law school. Before starting law school, I was unsure about what kind of lawyer I wanted to be.
But after participating in my first litigation event, the 1L Cross and Close Competition, I
immediately knew that I wanted to spend my career in a courtroom. From that point on, I decided to
embrace every opportunity the Litigation Center had to offer. The Summer 1st STEP Program
quickly transformed me from a person terrified of public speaking into someone with the skills and
confidence to present full trials. This foundation allowed me to succeed in the real world, where I
put these skills to use during my internships and impressed employers. After working side-by-side
with students from other law schools, I realized that the Litigation Center truly teaches its students how to stand out and excel in the
courtroom. Additionally, the time I spent competing on GGU’s National Mock Trial Team was filled with fun and great memories.
These competitions provided an escape from the traditional law school texts and an opportunity to spend time with great people.
Thank you to everyone in the Litigation Center for the time and dedication you spent on myself and others during these last three
years. Even when dealing with a pandemic and Zoom instruction, the Litigation Center’s efforts never wavered and the quality of its
lessons remained invaluable. Thank you to the Litigation Center for showing me a path and for giving me the skills to succeed
down that path. - Elias Hernandez

The amount of gratitude I have for GGU’s Litigation Center is more than I can ever express in words.
I’d known that I wanted to go to law school since third grade, but coming from a family of nurses, I had
no mentors and lacked guidance. But, from the moment I met Professor Brockl and the amazing
Litigation Team, I was flooded with support and direction. They always offered me constructive
feedback, and helped console me when I felt discouraged. They helped me change from surviving law
school, to thriving. Of course, 2020’s 1st STEP Program is, hands down, my favorite memory from law
school. Even though the pandemic kept us from meeting in person, the skills I learned and the people I
met made the entire experience invaluable. Learning from such a diverse group of attorneys, and being
given an opportunity to practice under them, is probably the single greatest experience I’ve ever had (it sure beats figuring out what
a voir dire is mid-mock trial competition). In the short time that I’ve been a part of GGU’s Litigation Center, I have not only
improved my craft and gained a newfound confidence, but I did it under the guidance of my own personal role models as well.
Thank you for everything! - Yzabel Tinga

The best decision I made at GGU was participating in the Litigation Center. The Litigation Center is
by far one of the best resources that GGU has to offer its students. The skills and discipline I learned
during the Litigation Center’s 1st STEP Summer Program helped me grow as a litigator and become
an all-around better law student. After participating in the program, I had the privilege to become a
teaching assistant for the STEP Program and the National Trial Team. I would not have been able to
help support these students in their litigation journey if it wasn’t for the mentors, coaches and
litigation professors that I had along the way helping me grow and achieve my goals. The dedicated
staff at the Litigation Center want to see each one of their students succeed and become the best
litigators they possibly can. The Litigation Center has opened so many doors for me and my future legal career after law school. I
am so grateful for the time I had with the Litigation Center and recommend others to take advantage of every opportunity the
Litigation Center has to offer students. - Christina Stout


The highlight of my law school career has been my time spent in the Litigation Center. I participated in

the Center’s Summer Trial and Evidence Program (1st STEP), as a student and teaching assistant,
which put me years ahead of my peers in each internship I took on. Not only was I able to understand
what was going on in the courtroom, but I was also able to become an active participant in it: arguing
motions, examining witnesses, and conducting preliminary hearings. I also competed in national mock
trial competitions as a part of the National Mock Trial Team. The coaching, mentorship, critique, and
camaraderie of the Team helped me find my voice and confidence in the courtroom.

All-in-all, I will always look back on my time spent at Golden Gate University School of Law with special appreciation for the
Center’s time and attention in shaping me into a skilled and confident advocate. To the professors, fellows, coaches, teaching
assistants, and mentors, thank you all for the time well spent. – Sadie Minjares Odom