Academic Programs at Trinity Law School
European Study Program • Student Handbook • The Center for Human Rights
Trinity Law School is a law school rooted in the Christian faith. We are committed to the belief that Christianity should affect every aspect of life, which includes legal practice and public policy. Courses at Trinity Law School seek to provide a student not only with the same knowledge of the law they would obtain at other law schools, but with an understanding of law and legal practice that is fully integrated with biblical principles. We want graduates of Trinity Law School to be equipped to effectively criticize current public policy and propose superior alternatives. We want Trinity graduates to be equipped to defend their faith in the marketplace of ideas and, if necessary, in the courts. We want Trinity graduates to be able to aid those who are being oppressed, to free those unjustly condemned, and to work for justice in every level and aspect of society. We seek to instill in Trinity students the realization that law is a profession committed to the whole good of individuals and society, not just a trade or means to earn a living. This integrative approach takes place both in each class dedicated to an individual legal subject and in specialized classes such as Jurisprudence and Legal Institutions and Values that deal directly with philosophical and theological issues.
Degree Requirements
Trinity Law School confers the Juris Doctor degree upon its students who have met the admissions requirements and have satisfactorily completed the prescribed program of 90 units of study. In most cases, the degree will be conferred only upon students who have been in residence at Trinity Law School for at least the final four semesters. An average grade of C (70 on a scale of 100) or better is required in all work offered for the degree.
Class Attendance
Regular class attendance is mandatory for all students. Students must attend at least 80 percent of the regularly scheduled class hours in each course to receive credit for the course. Students are required to attend class prepared to participate.
Academic Advisement
Final responsibility for meeting degree requirements for graduation rests with each student. However, the law school seeks to provide information and academic assistance for each student to complete the Juris Doctor degree successfully. Academic advisement is provided through individually appointed academic advisors. Advisement forms listing all graduation requirements are available in the registrar’s office.
Students with Disabilities
Any student with a disability requiring special arrangements will be accommodated upon petition, with supporting documentation of the handicap and upon approval of the dean. Special accommodations will be carefully tailored to meet the documented need in accordance with the Trinity Law School disability policy.
Bar Results
Trinity Law School’s bar results can be found at the California State Bar website.
Study 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. A student who intends to seek admission to practice law outside of California should contact the admitting authority in that jurisdiction for information regarding its education and admissions requirements.
Required Curriculum
The academic calendar consists of two 15-week semesters each fall and spring with the option of additional summer courses. To graduate with a Juris Doctor degree from the full-time program, a student must complete three consecutive academic terms within five years. To graduate from the part-time program, a student must complete four consecutive academic terms within five years.
Study 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. A student who intends to seek admission to practice law outside of California should contact the admitting authority in that jurisdiction for information regarding its education and admission requirements.
See the current Academic Catalog for information on our Full-time and Part-time program options.