BARBRI Lawyering Fundamentals

We encourage all incoming JD students to participate in Lawyering Fundamentals, a free and optional summer course designed to present strategies and tips to prepare for the rigors of law school.

Accordion Group

Open All Tabs
  • What is Lawyering Fundamentals?

    Lawyering Fundamentals is an asynchronous, skills-based course designed by BARBRI to help students adjust to their 1L year of law school. Skills-based course is bolded because Torts will be used to introduce simulated classes on assigned readings, note taking, case briefing, outlining, essay writing, and other strategies linked to successful performance. However, the course isn’t designed to teach you Torts. Instead, it is designed to introduce the necessary skills that can be used to help you prepare for your 1L courses.

  • When will Lawyering Fundamentals be offered?

    Lawyering Fundamentals is a six-week course that will be offered starting Monday, June 22 through Sunday, August 2. The course can be completed in two to three weeks and you may start anytime after June 22. However, the final assessment period will not open until July 31.

  • How do I register for this optional course?

    Whether you choose to participate or not, you will receive multiple emails in June outlining the registration process. These messages will include all relevant instructions and important updates coming from the BARBRI Team.

  • How much time will it take to complete this course?

    Lawyering Fundamentals will provide more details regarding daily tasks and suggested completion times for each task. This will be an excellent opportunity to practice your time management skills by setting up a schedule that will allow you to complete assigned tasks in a timely manner. The goal is for you not just to complete the course but also to engage with it in a manner that allows you to tailor the skills to your learning style.

  • Can I take a break once I start the course?

    Yes. Since the course is asynchronous, you may complete the modules at your own pace, as long as you submit the final assessment between July 31 and August 2.

  • What is the format of the final assessment?

    The assessment includes an essay and multiple-choice questions. It can take up to 2 ½ hours to complete it.

  • Why should I complete this course? 

    This is the most important question. Think back to the first time riding a bike—it wasn’t easy. Not necessarily because it was hard, but because it was new. However, with some time, guidance, and a lot of practice, it became easier. There is always a learning curve when you try something new, and law school isn’t any different. This course will give you guidance and an opportunity to practice these skills in a safe environment so that you can shorten that learning curve. As a bonus, you’ll also have an opportunity to interact with your peers through discussion boards!

  • Do I need to access any additional resources?

    No. You don’t need to purchase any additional resources for this course. The course is offered at no cost to you. Everything you need to succeed will be provided in the coming weeks. If you’d like to explore further reading, check out 1L of a Ride by Andrew J. McClurg, which is a great read prior to starting law school.

  • What happens if I don’t finish the course or the assessment?

    Nothing adverse will happen. There are no penalties for not completing the course or the assessment.

  • Will this course count toward my grade?

    No. This course is entirely optional and will not appear on your transcript. 1L faculty will not know whether you completed it or not. Only the Academic Achievement Team will have access to course participation and assessment results.

  • Who should I contact with questions?

    Please reach out to Director Joe Matthews at jmatthews@law.miami.edu.

Top