Ohio Northern University’s Pettit College of Law continues its tradition of excellence in Trial Advocacy, earning the No. 1 ranking in Ohio and climbing to the No. 24 spot nationally according to U.S. News & World Report. Today’s announcement marks the fifth consecutive year that ONU Law has been recognized among the top 25% of law schools in the nation for its exceptional trial advocacy program.
"The specialty rankings for U.S. News & World Report are particularly important because they are peer driven. Our ranking is a direct reflection of how our competitors view our performance at competitions and teaching conferences,” says ONU Law Dean, Charles H. Rose III. “We are grateful for the way in which they have acknowledged and supported the hard work of our students.”
“Trial Advocacy has long been a cornerstone of ONU Law's curriculum, focusing on practical courtroom skills essential for success as trial lawyers,” says Professor Donald Anderson, Trial Team Director.
Anderson is proud of the program’s accomplishments and how the law school continues to emphasize hands-on learning in areas such as witness preparation, jury selection, direct and cross-examination, and presenting opening and closing arguments. “Whether students pursue litigation or not, they leave ONU with the real-world skills employers consistently seek in attorneys,” Anderson says.
“Our Trial Team members exemplify the core values of ONU Law. They are dedicated professionals who approach every case with thorough preparation and unwavering ethical standards. Having competed against some of the nation’s top legal teams, they consistently demonstrate grace, dignity, and professionalism,” says Dean Rose.
Anderson adds, “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and perseverance of our students, who understand that success in law and life requires teamwork, accountability, and sacrifice.”