LAW-8092 Transactional Skills in Commercial & IP Practice
This course introduces students to the core skills required for effective transactional lawyering in both commercial and intellectual property contexts. Focusing on how lawyers translate business deals into enforceable agreements, the course develops foundational competencies in contract analysis, drafting, and negotiation. Students will examine the role of the transactional lawyer, including ethical considerations, and learn to structure agreements that accurately reflect client objectives while allocating risk and responsibility.Through a series of practical exercises, simulations, and drafting assignments, students will work with a variety of agreements, including general commercial contracts as well as assignments, licenses, and other arrangements used to commercialize intellectual property. The course emphasizes clear and precise drafting, use of plain English, avoidance of ambiguity, and effective use of boilerplate provisions. Students will also explore how intellectual property assets—such as inventions, creative works, and brand rights—are monetized through contractual relationships.By engaging with realistic deal scenarios, students will build the analytical and practical skills necessary to advise clients, negotiate terms, and draft agreements across a range of transactional settings. The course is designed for all students interested in developing practical lawyering skills, regardless of intended practice area. Evaluation will be based on class participation, drafting exercises, simulations, and written assignments.
Offered
Fall Law, Spring Law