2014-2015
“The lord has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to comfort the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom to the captives, and release to the prisoners...� -ISAIAH 61:1
Argue for truth. Advocate for just policies. Defend your beliefs in the marketplace of ideas. Speak for those without a voice. Fight injustice. Help the oppressed. Whichever type of law you choose to practice,
We believe that a legal career is more than a profession. It is a call to make a difference. Take the next step. Gain an education that will prepare you to answer that call with excellence.
“I am going to strike forward into the wind and try to make something of this legal education. I can see myself in a variety of avenues, whether it be in the District Attorney’s office, a Christian law organization, or wills and trusts. I could also see my wife and I going back into the missions field at some point in the future. Trinity supports those career options while making law school affordable.” -TREVOR ELSTE ‘14
Who We Are Trinity International University consists of four schools: Trinity College, Trinity Graduate School, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and Trinity Law School. Together, the schools have nearly 100 faculty and more than 3,100 students. Whether you intend to become an attorney, teacher, business leader or missionary, Trinity Law School provides a rigorous academic environment where you not only learn the law, but also receive practical opportunities to put your
WE A RE
education to work.
www.tls.edu
WHO
Trinity Law School is a Christian Law School that is dedicated to providing an exceptional education from a biblical perspective. We strive to equip our students with the knowledge and desire to pursue meaningful lives of service.
What Sets Us Apart Trinity Law School’s academic program fulfills all of the requirements for admission to the practice of law in the state of California and prepares graduates to take the California Bar Examination.
We Provide: Tools for Academic Success/On Course Opportunities to become practice ready International Opportunities Student Organizations Spiritual Life
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Tools for Academic Success
of law school expectations, motivates students in the pursuit of their legal studies, assists students in their development of effective study strategies, time management skills, and examination techniques, and is a useful resource for educational and bar review programs. Students enjoy the benefits of a highly coordinated program that provides them with the tools needed for academic success in law school and on the California Bar Exam.
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The Academic Support Program advises students
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Academic support and assistance is available to all students, though final responsibility for meeting degree requirements rests with each student.
Purpose
Orientation
The California Bar Exam is considered by many to be the most difficult in the country to pass. To further help our students, we now offer an exclusive program called “On Course-Raising the Bar.�
Before you start classes, New Student Orientation will cover case briefing,
On Course enhances your coursework from the beginning to the end of your time at Trinity. It is a hybrid of personalized academic
outlining, exam writing, and time management skills.
Year One (1-30 units)
Academic counseling sessions with an assigned advisor during & after the first semester, as well as at 30 units
Summer Bar Diagnostic Exam and review
Year Two (31-60 units)
MBE Workshops
Performance Test Workshops
is a consistent, reliable companion that will guide you toward
Skills Diagnostic Assessment
the ultimate goal of becoming a practicing attorney; this is just
Summer Bar Diagnostic Exam and review
Academic counseling session with assigned advisor at 60 units
support, fundamental skills reinforcement, counsel, motivation, and bar test prep. For the committed legal scholar, On Course
one more way Trinity Law School is committed to preparing and equipping our students.
Year Three (61-90 Units)
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Multi-day Simulated California Bar Exam
Final academic counseling session regarding future bar preparation plans
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Becoming Practice Ready At Trinity, we believe that while the law is contained and codified in books, it lives
TRINITY POVERTY LAW CLINIC at the Christian Legal Aid Office // Our
and breathes on the streets of our communities, in the lives of We the People.
Poverty Law Clinic is headquartered on campus and dedicated to providing
The law can help or hinder progress and it is a human connection that often
free and low-cost services to those unable to afford an attorney. At this clinic
determines which. Through our clinics and under the supervision of attorneys, law
students handle initial interviews and connect clients with the appropriate
students can contribute, in hands-on fashion, in exchange for valuable experience.
in-house counsel or volunteer attorney. Students have the opportunity to sit in
It is the opportunity to practice before becoming a practicing attorney. Before
during client meetings and court hearings.
students graduate, before they sit for the bar, they will have gained a significant measure of wisdom and the chance to make an unmeasurable impact. Students
TRINITY BANKRUPTCY CLINIC // This on-campus, pro bono clinic assists
may participate in the following programs after completing 30 units.
California residents with Chapter 7 bankruptcy. It is the ideal place for students interested in bankruptcy law. At the clinic, students are supervised by a practicing
TRINITY LAW CLINIC at the Orange County Rescue Mission //
bankruptcy attorney and assist clients in problem solving and preparation.
Our clinic is located on the grounds of the mission and our hearts echo the sentiment of their mission: “To minister the love of Jesus Christ to the least,
TRINITY MEDIATION CLINIC // Our mediation clinic operates in conjunction
the last, and the lost.” We provide pro bono legal services to the otherwise
with the Orange County Superior Court and Orange County Human Relations. Here,
homeless residents of this amazing transitional facility. Under the supervision
students act as a neutral party and help to facilitate resolutions. It’s an invaluable
of an attorney, participating Trinity students strengthen interpersonal skills
opportunity to use and hone mediation and peacemaking skills. To participate in this
and utilize their research and writing skills. They help residents with a variety
clinic, a student must first successfully complete the Alternative Dispute Resolution
of issues including family law, criminal law, and debt. Students learn how to
course (LA675a). Successful completion of LA675a also qualifies students to work
assess legal needs and improve client interviewing skills. It’s the perfect place
as mediators in various California courts before obtaining their JD.
for those seeking exposure to multiple aspects of the law. TRINITY RELIGIOUS LIBERTY CLINIC at the Pacific Justice Institute // TRINITY MOBILE LEGAL CLINIC // As part of our partnership with the Orange
This clinic is housed on the Trinity campus and is a partnership with the Pacific
County Rescue Mission, we are proud to offer opportunities for Trinity students
Justice Institute. PJI is a non-profit organization that provides legal services to
to volunteer in this “law office on wheels.” The Mobile Clinic’s goals are the same
churches and individuals involved in cases of religious freedom, parental rights
as Trinity Legal Clinic’s, except that it is open to all low-income and homeless
and other civil liberties. Students who participate in this clinic are exposed
residents of Orange County. Participating students provide pro bono, walk-up
to writing a wide variety of trial and appellate level documents, including
services to those who might not otherwise have access to legal assistance.
amicus briefs (friend of the court) for current cases. Their research and writing
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“If I’m going to invest my time, I’m going to go to a Christian law school. Trinity was my first choice. I‘ve been thrilled. It’s really been more than I thought it would be. Every class begins with a prayer. Every person here really cares about us as individuals, not just as law students. They care about our future as fellow Christians.” -MICHELLE EATON ‘15
will directly contribute to important religious freedom matters. Students are supervised by attorneys who specialize in constitutional law. TRINITY LAW REVIEW // Trinity Law Review has been a source of scholarship regarding law and the Christian faith since its founding in 1980. Select students may participate in this journal’s publication, and some will be invited to join the editorial board.
writing, and oral advocacy skills. It’s a chance to measure their skills against those of law students statewide, as Trinity Moot Court competes regionally and nationwide. In 2014, Trinity’s Moot Court team placed first in the Frederick Douglass National Moot Court Competition, which is the premier Moot Court competition for law schools. INTERNSHIPS // Students may choose to intern with an outside law practice or legal organization for course credit. Internships are strongly recommended, but not required.
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can compete for a position on the team. Participation helps develop research,
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MOOT COURT // Moot Court is a simulated court proceeding and students
“Strasbourg was an amazing opportunity, it opened my eyes to what the world has to offer. The Strasbourg program that Trinity offers not only allows you to study International Human Rights law, but also allows you to really get a feel for the European judicial system. While in Strasbourg, we visited the International Human Rights Court, European Parliament, and the European Council. The most meaningful part, aside from the learning aspect, was bonding with classmates as well as having the professors there with you.” -CHRISTOPHER BORZIN ‘14
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International Opportunities Trinity’s focus on International Human Rights gives students the opportunity to view law from a global context. TH E C EN TER F OR HU MA N R I GHT S // The Center for Human Rights provides research and educational opportunities for the integration of biblical principles and international human rights laws. The center provides a forum for students and faculty to explore the nature of God and man, as well as the rights, duties and obligations that flow from that relationship. The center supports the human rights courses taught at Trinity Law School, sponsors an annual writing
PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – International Law and Development Program // Trinity students can participate in a two-week excursion through Cambodia’s capital city to study international law and economic development in a time of government evolution. This program is presented by Handong International Law School and the opportunity to participate is offered to Trinity students periodically. MUK O NO , UG ANDA – Summer Study Abroad Program // Through Regent University School of Law, Trinity students are able to participate in a month-long summer course on the topic of International Human Rights and the Rule of Law. In Uganda, human rights are constantly in turmoil and corruption is fought daily. This program is designed for students who seek to do global justice through an informed relationship with the people and legal challenges of East Africa.
competition, funds research fellowships, and organizes and promotes
Offered each July, Trinity Law School’s exclusive Summer Human Rights Program is an advanced course in international and comparative human rights law that is taught by leading academics and practitioners from around the world. Participating students receive an opportunity to examine contemporary human rights issues from a Christian perspective, while exploring many sites that contribute to the modern view of European human rights.
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STRASBOURG, FRANCE – Summer Human Rights Program //
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international and domestic human rights programs.
Student Organizations STUDENT B A R A S S OCI AT I ON (S B A ) // All students are automatically members of the Student Bar Association. The SBA sponsors student organizations, educational seminars, and social functions, including the annual Thanksgiving dinner, Barrister’s Ball, graduation celebration, and other events. C H R IS T I A N L E GA L S OCI E T Y // Trinity Law School has a student chapter of the Christian Legal Society, a national association of Christian lawyers, judges, law professors and law students committed to living their faith in their legal career. Students may also participate in the events and conferences of the local and national attorney chapters. F EDER A L I S T S OCI E T Y // Trinity Law School has an active chapter of the Federalist Society, a national organization of politically-minded individuals dedicated to reforming the current legal system. DELTA T HE TA P HI // Delta Theta Phi is an international law fraternity that seeks to foster lifelong friendships and professional affiliations through legal education, international networking, and mutual respect. SPEC IF I C I NT E RE S T GR OU P S // There are a variety of student groups formed upon a mutual interest in specific types of law. Such groups include the Women’s Legal Association, Criminal Law Association, International Law Society, Sports and Entertainment Law Association, Black Law Student Association, Business and Tax Law Society, and Trial Advocacy Club.
Spiritual Life at Trinity As a Christian law school, Trinity opens classes with a prayer or short devotional, holds voluntary Bible studies, and makes biblical truth a part of the academic curriculum. All students must enroll in a number of required courses that allow students to learn and discuss how biblical principles guide and affect the development of the law. Trinity also offers special lectures by visiting Christian scholars, professionals, and pastors. We seek to preserve a caring and nurturing atmosphere where students and faculty members pray together and encourage one another in faith and good works.
“The most valuable experiences I’ve had with Trinity have all come from outside of the classroom. Those are the ones that are most meaningful, and they’re the best learning experiences I’ve ever had.”
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-PETE SAKADJIAN ‘14
What You Need to Know Degree Requirements To graduate with a Juris Doctor degree, students must successfully complete the prescribed program of 90 units of study. F L EX I B L E S CHE D U L I NG // Students who attend Trinity during the...
Academic Year The academic calendar consists of fifteen week semesters each fall and spring with the option of taking additional courses during the summer session. Courses are offered throughout the day and evening to facilitate full and parttime programs of study. Please see www.tls.edu for the specific dates of future semesters and summer sessions. S ATU RD AY CLA S S ES // Trinity Law School is one of the few schools to offer classes on Saturdays. Qualified students who start in the fall have the option to earn their
Daytime
Evening
Weekend
entire JD degree by attending class on Saturdays only. Please visit our website or contact our admissions office for more information.
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Courses Students must successfully complete a curriculum of core required courses. Therefore, students fulfill their degree requirements with elective courses that address their specific interests.
Required Courses LA505
Legal Institutions & Values
(3 Units)
LA662
Property Law II
(3 Units)
LA521
Contracts I
(3 Units)
LA671
Evidence I
(2 Units)
LA522
Contracts II
(3 Units)
LA671B Evidence II
(2 Units)
LA531
Criminal Law
(3 Units)
LA673
Civil Procedure I
(3 Units)
LA541
Torts I
(3 Units)
LA674
Civil Procedure II
(3 Units)
LA542
Torts II
(3 Units)
LA702
Business Organizations
(3 Units)
LA556
Legal Research & Writing I
(3 Units)
LA783i
Criminal Procedure
(3 Units)
LA560
Legal Research & Writing II
(3 Units)
LA712
Professional Responsibility & Ethics
(3 Units)
LA566
Legal Research & Writing III
(2 Units)
LA764
Community Property
(2 Units)
LA569
Legal Research & Writing IV
LA790
Jurisprudence
(4 Units)
or Special Topic Seminar
(2 Units)
LA803
Wills, Trusts, & Estates
(3 Units)
LA600
Constitutional Law I
(3 Units)
LA823
Remedies
(3 Units)
LA601
Constitutional Law II
(3 Units)
LA999a
Advanced Legal Synthesis
(3 Units)
LA661
Property Law I
(3 Units)
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TOTAL UNITS
74 UNITS
Electives & Special Offerings LA675i
Alternative Dispute Resolution
(3 Units)
LA959
Nonprofit Clinic
LA750
Appellate Advocacy
(3 Units)
LA960
Bankruptcy & Creditor Law
(3 Units)
LA753
Trial Practice
(3 Units)
LA961
Administrative Law
(3 Units)
LA793
Constitutional Law of the Family
(3 Units)
LA962
Intellectual Property Law
(3 Units)
LA862
Introductory Taxation
(3 Units)
LA964
Family Law
(3 Units)
LA870
Civil Litigations Skills
(2 Units)
LA966
Jurisprudence of Bioethics
(3 Units)
LA883cp
Criminal Process
(1 Unit)
LA970
Independent Study
(1-3 Units)
LA890
Advanced Criminal Law
(3 Units)
LA975
Environmental Law
(3 Units)
LA891
Juvenile Law
(3 Units)
LA975d
Legal Apologetics: The Law
LA893
Securities Regulations
(2 Units)
LA901
Jurisprudence of International Human Rights
(3 Units)
LA976
Media & the Law
(2 Units)
Religion & The Law
(3 Units)
(1-3 Units)
(1 Unit)
The Theory & Law Of War
(3 Units)
LA984
LA910
The Right To Life & The Law
(3 Units)
LA989
Moot Court
(Cr / Nc)
LA913
The Rights of Women, Children, & Families
(3 Units)
LA991
Law Review
(Cr / Nc)
LA916a
Human Trafficking
(1 Unit)
LA995
Seminar: Special Topics In Law
LA918
Int’l Disputes Resolution
(3 Units)
LA995bb
Labor Law
(2 Units)
LA919
Int’l Forum on Human Rights
(2 Units)
LA995bl
Banking Law
(2 Units)
LA920
Int’l Seminar on Human Rights
(4 Units)
LA995ci
Employment Discrimination
(2 Units)
LA921
Religious Liberties & Int’l Rights
(2 Units)
LA995dp
Death Penalty
(3 Units)
LA922
Public International Law
(3 Units)
LA995eo
Exempt Organizations
(2 Units)
LA923
Int’l Criminal Law
(3 Units)
LA995ma
Mergers and Acquisitions
(3 Units)
LA925
Immigration & Nationality Law
(2 Units)
LA995np
Nonprofit Law
(3 Units)
LA928
Philosophy & The Theology Of Human Rights
(3 Units)
LA995ro
Churches, Religous Organizations,
(2 Units)
LA953
Legal Internship
LA955
Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
(2 Units)
LA957
Law Practice Management
(2 Units)
(1-3 Units)
(1-3 Units)
& Foreign Charities LA999d
Intelligent Design
Not all electives are offered in each academic year.
(1 Unit)
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LA905
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in Defense of Christianity
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FIR ST Y EAR Legal Research & Writing I & II
Part-Time
Contracts I & II Torts I & II
Contracts I & II Torts I & II Criminal Law
Criminal Procedure
Criminal Procedure
Business Organizations
SEC OND Y EAR Legal Research & Writing III
2
SECOND YEAR Legal Research & Writing III Legal Research & Writing IV
or Special Topic Seminar
Legal Research & Writing IV
Legal Institutions & Values
Business Organizations
or Special Topic Seminar
Civil Procedure I & II
Civil Procedure I & II
Property I & II
Property I & II
Constitutional Law I & II
Electives
Evidence I & II Electives
3
Legal Resarch & Writing I & II
Criminal Law Legal Institutions & Values
2
1
FI R S T Y E A R
T HIRD Y EAR Community Property
3
THIRD YEAR Constitutional Law I & II Evidence I & II Community Property
Jurisprudence
Jurisprudence
Professional Responsibility & Ethics
Professional Responsibility & Ethics
Wills, Trusts, & Estates
Electives
Remedies Advanced Legal Synthesis Electives
Students starting in the spring semester will be required to take summer courses for their first year.
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FO U R T H Y E A R Wills, Trusts, & Estates Remedies Advanced Legal Synthesis Electives
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Full-Time
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Typical Schedules
Faculty ADELINE ALLEN
ERIC FITZGERALD
RYUL KIM
JOHN MENDOZA
JD, Regent University School of Law
JD, Trinity Law School
JD, Western State College of Law
JD, University of California, Los Angeles
BA, University of California, Los Angeles
Legal Research and Writing
BA, University of California, Los Angeles
BS, University of the Pacific
Trinity Mediation Clinic; Advanced Mediation Clinic
Civil Procedure; Property
Contracts; Torts; Law Review
LOYST FLETCHER
GISSELLE AMINI
JD, College of William and Mary
RONALD V. LARSON
CLAUDIA MOREHEAD
JD, Trinity Law School
BA, Hampton University
JD, University of California, Davis
JD, McGeorge School of Law
BS, California State University,
Evidence; Civil Procedure
BA, California State University, Fullerton
BA, California State University, Long Beach
Business Organizations
Business Organizations
Long Beach Professional Responsibility and Ethics
LORA FRIEDMAN JD, Trinity Law School
DANIELE LE
ERIN MORIARTY
CHRISTOPHER BAUER
BS, Chapman University
JD, Chapman University School of Law
JD, Louisiana State University
JD, Hofstra University School of Law
Legal Research and Writing
BA, University of California, Los Angeles
BA, Louisiana State University
Advanced Legal Synthesis
Bankruptcy Clinic
JD, Pepperdine University-School of Law
PETER LEE
MELANIE NICHOLS
MBA/BA, Oral Roberts University
JD, Boston University
JD, Washington University-School of Law
Property; Contracts
MBA, Loyola College in Maryland
BA, College of William and Mary
AB, University of Michigan
Legal Research and Writing
BS, California State University, San Marcos Torts DANA C. CLARK JD, Western State College of Law BA, Point Loma College Torts ROY COMER JD, Western State College of Law BA, University of California, Irvine Remedies
BRUCE HARBIN
JAMES HIRSEN JD, Northrop University School of Law
Professional Responsibility and Ethics
GRACE OGBURN
BA, Northeastern Illinois University
ANDREW McCARRON
JD, Western State College of Law
Media and Entertainment Law
JD, Western State College of Law
BA, California State University, Riverside
BA, California State University, Long Beach
Legal Research and Writing
BRYAN KAZARIAN JD, Western State College of Law
Contracts; Property
MICHAEL PARKER
BA, California State University, Fresno
KENNETH M. McDONALD
JD, University of the Pacific
ANDREW DELOACH
AA, Orange Coast College
JD, Western State College of Law
BA, University of California, Los Angeles
JD, California Western School of Law
Trinity Mobile Legal Clinic
BA, California State University, Long Beach
Remedies
BA, University of California, San Diego Summer Human Rights Institute
STEPHEN PAUL KENNEDY
MICHAEL PEFFER
PhD, University of Southern California
JD, Simon Greenleaf School of Law
MDiv, Talbot Theological Seminary
AA, Orange Coast College
BA, University of Southern California
Legal Research and Writing;
International Human Rights
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Criminal Procedure
Evidence; Religious Liberty Clinic
“The fact that I’m able to meet with the professors one-on-one, and not just for a quick five minutes, is incredible.
MICHAEL PETERS
STEPHEN SHEPARD
JD, Trinity Law School
JD, Western State College of Law
Legal Research and Writing
BA University of California, Los Angeles Contracts
JD, Simon Greenleaf School of Law
JOY STATLER
BA, University of Southern California
JD, Trinity Law School
Criminal Law
Trinity Law Clinic
JULIE RESNER
MYRON STEEVES
JD, Trinity Law School
JD, Georgetown University Law Center
BA, Hope International University
BA, Biola University
Poverty Law Clinic
LISA STRIBLING JD, Trinity Law School
DONALD ROBERTS
AA, Cerritos College
JD, Western State College of Law
Family Law
Wills, Trusts, and Estates
BETHANY TAYLOR
R. NEIL RODGERS
JD, Chapman University School of Law
JD, Western State College of Law
BA, University of Central Arkansas
BA, University of California, Los Angeles
Legal Research and Writing
Constitutional Law; Torts; Contracts; Moot Court
RACHEL TOBERTY JD, Regent University School of Law
LISA RUNQUIST
BA, Biola University
JD, University of Minnesota-
Criminal Law
School of Law BA, Hamline University Law of Nonprofit Organizations
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Legal Research & Writing;
-JAMILEH SARABIAN ‘14
THADDEUS WILLIAMS PhD, Vrije University Amsterdam MA, Talbot School of Theology BA, Biola University Jurisprudence
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VALENTIN RADA
My professors actually listen to me. They will look at the work that I’ve produced and go through it thoroughly. They will listen and pray for any problems I have, even private ones. It is very unique and different from anything I’ve ever experienced.”
Accreditation AC C R EDITAT I ON // Trinity Law School is accredited by the Committee of
O UT- O F- STATE STUDENTS / / Students coming to Trinity Law School
Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California. Trinity Law School is a school
from out-of-state should secure suitable housing and transportation to ensure
of Trinity International University, which is accredited by the Higher Learning
that these issues do not become an impediment to academic success. Trinity
Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
does not provide on-campus housing. However, there are several apartment complexes with one, two, or three-bedroom units located near campus offering
ADM IS SIO N T O P R A CT I CE L AW I N CA LI FO R NI A // Accredited
a range of rental rates, leasing and amenities options.
by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California, the law program fulfills the requirements pertaining to admission to the practice
Please contact the Admissions office for information on housing and
of law in the state of California. Graduates are qualified to take the California
essential services.
Bar Examination. special arrangements will be accommodated upon petition, with supporting
Applicants intending to practice law in states other than California are
documentation of the disability and upon approval of the Registrar. Special
encouraged to investigate the educational requirements, as well as the rules
accommodations will be carefully tailored to meet the documented need in
and regulations, governing admission to practice in those jurisdictions. Study
accordance with the Trinity Law School disability policy.
at, or graduation from, this law school may not qualify a student to take the bar examination or be admitted to practice law in jurisdictions other than California.
ACADE MI C CATALO G / / Academic policies and standards in addition to
A student who intends to seek admission to practice law outside of California
those in this viewbook are contained in the Catalog, which is issued to each
should contact the admitting authority in that jurisdiction for information
student at the beginning of every academic year. In case of any conflict, the
regarding its education and admission requirements.
standards contained in the catalog are controlling. Students are responsible for knowing and complying with the policies and standards for the law school and the Rules Regulating Admission to Practice Law in California, a
Trinity Law School’s bar results can be found at
publication of the State Bar of California. The academic catalog can be found
http://admissions.Calbar.CA.gov/Examinations/Statistics.aspx
online, at lawschool.tiu.edu/what-we-do/academic-program
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ADM IS SIO N T O P R A CT I CE L AW OU T S I DE O F CALI FO R NI A //
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STUDE NTS WI TH DI SABILITIES / / Students with disabilities requiring
Mission Statement Trinity Law School exists to serve Christ by championing a biblical view of human law and government through our students, graduates, faculty, and staff.
Fulfilling Our Mission In application of this mission, Trinity Law School commits to: Preparing students for legal practice by providing opportunities for practical skills to be strengthened through our clinical partnerships, Career Development Panels, and private practice workshops. Upholding Trinity International University’s commitment to biblical, historic, and evangelical Christianity through our course offerings, guest lecturers, and campus activities. Producing scholarly and popular literature and broadcast media which embody a biblical Christian perspective on law through publishing the Journal of Christian Legal Thought and Trinity Law Review. Providing an opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds and economically challenged circumstances to obtain a legal education through a wide variety of scholarships.
Trinity International University holds to the statement of faith of the Evangelical Free Church of America (as adopted on June 26, 2008). The Evangelical Free Church of America is an association of autonomous churches united around these theological convictions.
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How to Apply Admissions Trinity is committed to the concept that a legal career is a calling and that
TRANSFER STUDENTS // Applicants enrolled in legal study elsewhere may be
students of all ages, backgrounds and occupations may sense the call to enter
considered for transfer status. The Admissions Committee evaluates transfer applicants
law school. As such, the Admissions Committee selects its law students upon
on a case-by-case basis.
consideration of the “whole person.” While Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
The Admissions Committee requires transfer students to complete at least 45 units
scores and past academic experience are important, the Committee also
of their JD in residence at Trinity. In addition to transcripts, applicants also need to
considers the prospective student’s goals, achievements, work experiences,
provide a letter of standing from their former school.
life circumstances and other criteria that indicate an applicant’s character and potential for academic success. All prospective students, regardless of race, national origin, or religion, are welcome at Trinity Law School.
Categories of Admission
Transfer students may be eligible for advanced standing; grades at or above the “good standing” level (determined by the school) may be accepted for transfer credit, as long as the course is similar to Trinity course content and have been completed within thirty-six months prior to admission to Trinity. If it is a full year course, such as Contracts 1 and 2, both sections must be at the good standing level in order to get any credit for the class. Academically dismissed law students interested in transferring to Trinity must contact the Admissions Office to discuss their situation and must submit a dismissal
REGULAR STUDENTS WITH A BACHELOR’S DEGREE // Applicants
explanation as part of their admissions file. Students who have been dismissed at the
previously awarded a Bachelor’s degree from a qualified institution of higher
end of their first year of study will not be able to transfer any units unless they take and
learning are considered for regular admission.
pass the First Year Law Students Exam.
REGULAR STUDENTS WITHOUT A BACHELOR’S DEGREE // Trinity offers
Transfer students are admitted solely at the discretion of the Admissions Committee and
law school candidates without a Bachelor’s degree an exceptional opportunity to
in accordance with the rules of the Committee of Bar Examiners of California. Trinity Law
enter law school before completing their undergraduate study. Applicants may
School does not award credit for prior experiential learning.
be admitted upon completion of an associate’s degree from a qualified institution or upon earning at least 60 transferable units of undergraduate study.
SPECIAL STUDENTS // An applicant without an Associate’s degree but demonstrating the intellectual ability equivalent to at least two years of college may be considered for law school admittance as a special student. The California Committee of Bar Examiners determines intellectual equivalency via the written College Level Examination Program (CLEP). It is important to note that applicants admitted to legal study under this special students provision are required to take the California First Year Law Students’ Examination. The Admissions Committee offers admission to such applicants solely at their discretion. Due to the special nature of these admissions considerations, please contact an admissions counselor at 800.922.4748 for additional information. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS // Trinity welcomes inquiries from students educated outside of the United States. International applicants must request a detailed report evaluating their transcripts International students typically must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language exam (TOEFL) if the first language of their country of origin is not English. Trinity Law School can issue student visas to those who are not residents of the United States. Please call the Admissions Office for more information.who are not residents of the U.S. Please contact the Admissions Office for additional information concerning student visas.
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from a California State Bar-approved credentials evaluation service.
Admissions Process THE LAW SCHOOL ADMISSION TEST (LSAT) // Applicants are required to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), an examination designed to assess law school candidates’ potential for success in legal study. The LSAT is one of many factors considered for acceptance. Prospective students who have not yet taken the LSAT are encouraged to apply and indicate their registered test date.
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FILL OUT AN APPLICATION // Incomplete applications will not be considered. In addition to your application, you are advised to promptly complete a FAFSA Financial Aid Application.
TRANSCRIPTS // An applicant must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. The applicant must contact each college or university attended and request that official transcripts be sent directly to Trinity Law School or provide them through LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service. All transcripts must be sealed and bear the official certification of the issuing school.
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PERSONAL STATEMENT // All applicants are required to submit a personal statement with their law school application. The personal statement should address why the applicant desires to study
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INTERVIEWS // Most applicants will be required to interview with the Admissions Office prior to an admission decision. The Admissions Office will contact the applicant to schedule the interview.
law, particularly at Trinity Law School. In addition, the applicant should address all professional and personal goals for the future, as well as any factors that may have affected academic success in the past. Your personal statement may be submitted to your Admissions Counselor.
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ACCEPTANCE AND NOTIFICATION // As soon as the decision is made, you will be promptly notified by the Admissions Office concerning your application to study law at Trinity Law School. If you are accepted to the law school, you will also be advised of all the future dates and
RECOMMENDATIONS // Two letters of recommendation are required in support of the application for admission. These recommendations may be from professors, instructors or professional associates who can comment on the candidate’s character and potential for success in legal study. Candidates who
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cannot obtain a faculty recommendation due to lapse of time may submit recommendations from employers or professional associates. Recommendations must be sent directly to Trinity Law School from the recommenders or provided through LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service.
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requirements for your matriculation.
Financial Aid Trinity Law School offers two types of federal loans to its law students throughout
THE SAMARITAN FELLOWSHIP // The Samaritan Fellowship differs from the traditional
their academic career. The Financial Aid Office assists students in applying for and
law school scholarship in that it is specifically designed for those with a calling to
securing financial assistance when family resources are insufficient to meet educational
missionary work. It has been created for those with an interest in the law as a tool to better
expenses. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal
fulfill that calling. The Samaritan Fellowship is a full scholarship to Trinity Law School, and
Student Aid (FAFSA) using school code E00961 on the web concurrently with their
students who are accepted will be immersed in many aspects of the missionary field. In
application for admission to law school.
addition, each student will be paid, receiving a monthly stipend. Samaritan Fellowships will be awarded every year to applicants who show exceptional academic promise, a selfless
Scholarships Trinity Law School also offers many generous scholarships and grants to its law students. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to speak with an Admissions Counselor to determine their scholarship eligibility.
devotion to helping others, and a sincere desire to share the faith. Admissions counselors are available to discuss financial aid options and to assist prospective students in planning a realistic budget for attending law school. Requests for scholarships will not be considered if you have not first completed a FAFSA Application (whether or not you intend to actually accept financial aid).
Among the many scholarships and grants offered by Trinity Law School, are the following: Dean’s Full-Tuition Scholarship + Stipend
By the
Dean’s Full-Tuition Scholarship Dean’s Partial Scholarship
Numbers
Justice Scholarship Christian College Scholarship
Based on information
Evangelical Free Church Scholarship Public Service Grants
school year.
Community College Grant Veterans’ Educational Benefits (Including the Yellow Ribbon Scholarship) Church Match
$27,500
$28,000
$25,700 $25,000
from the 2013-2014
$20,700 $20,000 $0
Part-Time
Full-Time
Average Financial Aid Package
94% of students receive financial aid The average financial aid package is $27,500 per year Over $440,000 was awarded in scholarships in the 2013-2014 school year
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Based on information from the 2013-2014 school year.
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Contact Trinity Law School 2200 North Grand Avenue Santa Ana, CA 92705
Photos: Crystal Worley Photography
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PHONE: 800.922.4748 FAX: 714.796.7190 ADMISSIONS: 714.796.7100 FINANCIAL AID: 714.796.7121
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