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Advancing the art of advocacy

The Center for Excellence in Advocacy at Washburn Law is dedicated to fostering the next generation of skilled advocates. By offering unparalleled training and opportunities, the center empowers students, alumni and practicing attorneys to excel in the legal arena. Whether through hands-on skills-based training, dynamic programming or groundbreaking scholarly work, the center is at the forefront of advocacy education.

Pioneering advocacy education

At the Center for Excellence in Advocacy, we are committed to advancing the field of advocacy through comprehensive practical training, innovative programming and scholarly exploration. Our offerings are designed to meet the needs of students, alumni and the legal community. Through frequent center-sponsored events, we bring together those passionate about advocacy to learn, collaborate and lead. This synergy drives our mission to elevate the practice and understanding of advocacy law.
A law professor coaches a group of law students gathered at a table.

Experience the judiciary in action

Court visits to Washburn Law

Washburn Law’s unique location and facilities provide unparalleled opportunities for students to observe the judicial process firsthand. The Kansas Court of Appeals, the Kansas Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit hold sessions at Washburn, offering students a front-row seat to oral arguments and judicial proceedings. These visits are invaluable, providing real-world insights and learning experiences that are integral to a comprehensive legal education.

Comprehensive advocacy program

Preparing students to be successful advocates
Washburn Law’s Advocacy Program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in trial practice and beyond. Our comprehensive program includes specialized coursework, competition teams, externships, clinical experiences and the renowned Intensive Trial Advocacy Program (ITAP). From civil litigation to criminal law, our curriculum equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel. Participation in student organizations and competition teams further enhances their advocacy skills, while externships and clinic work provide practical, hands-on experience. The state-of-the-art Michael C. Manning Trial Courtroom and Heath Family Appellate Courtroom ensure that students are well-prepared to enter the legal profession as competent and confident advocates.

By integrating rigorous academic training with practical experiences, Washburn Law’s Center for Excellence in Advocacy ensures that students are not only practice-ready but also poised to become leaders in the legal community.
A student practices cross-examining a witness.

Practitioner in residence program

The Patrik W. Neustrom Practitioner in Residence program is a cornerstone of the Center for Excellence in Advocacy. This program brings distinguished practitioners and scholars to Washburn Law to share their expertise with students, judges, and practicing lawyers. Past practitioners have provided invaluable insights into trial practice and advocacy techniques, enriching the learning experience and professional development of all participants.

This program is made possible by the generous support of Patrik Neustrom. Neustrom earned his JD from Washburn University School of Law in 1976. While at Washburn Law, Neustrom was selected to and published in the Washburn Law Journal and was a member of the Phi Delta Phi Scholastic Fraternity. Neustrom has been a partner in the Salina, Kansas law firm of Neustrom & Associates since 2005. His practice focuses on general civil litigation, with an emphasis on personal injury, traumatic brain injuries, wrongful death, automobile, truck, medical malpractice, products liability, nursing home, workers' compensation, and exotic torts.
Joseph Mastrosimone

Center director

Joseph Mastrosimone

Professor of Law