A basic course in criminal law is a standard required course for first-year law students, or 1Ls. This class introduces students to the Model Penal Code and topics such as mental states, defenses, attempts and the elements of some specific crimes. The first year of law school is designed to give students a broad overview of different areas of law, so it offers the added benefit of helping students discover if they truly want to practice criminal law.
The rules of hearsay can be one of the more complicated subject areas of criminal law. These rules are also very testable, making them perfect for use on the bar exam. Evidence classes often cover issues such as burden of proof, objections and the questioning of witnesses that will come up frequently in criminal trials.
Although the name may vary, law schools all teach a class in criminal procedure or investigation, often called "Crim Pro" by students. Typically, these classes center around Constitutional issues such as search and seizure and interrogations. Crim Pro classes may also discuss state constitutional issues and how they apply to the investigation of a crime. This is why it is frequently suggested to students that they attend law school in the state they want to practice in later.
Most law schools approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) offer a variety of legal clinics to second- and third-year law students. Clinics typically combine a classroom or discussion component with the experience of dealing with real clients. Local attorneys run the clinics and supervise the law students. Most states have a certification program for third-year students, which allows the student to appear in court under the guidance of an attorney. Criminal defense or prosecution clinics give students the change to get their feet wet and deal with real cases before finishing law school.