This course is designed to help students develop an understanding of, and provide opportunities to practice the various skills necessary to successfully interview clients, counsel them as they make decisions, and generally develop and maintain good attorney-client relationships. Readings will provide a conceptual framework for using interpersonal skills in dealing with clients and suggest interviewing and counseling techniques. Exercises and simulations, both in and out of class, will provide opportunities for experimentation, practice, reflection and analysis as students develop their lawyering skills. Topics explored will include the role of the lawyer, the initial interview, problem identification, gathering information, identifying alternatives, decision-making, communication techniques, conflicts in the attorney-client relationship, and ethical consderations. Most classes will involve exercises or simulations for which the students must prepare. Grading will be based not only on performance in the simulations but on the student’s preparation for and reflection about the simulations as evidenced during the class and in written assignments.