Law School - Real-Life Learning Exercise #1
March 2025
Background - Cieo everybody. Every semester, I conduct a series of surprise “Real-Life Learning Exercises” for my entertainment law class. This first of this semester happened after assignment #7, which was to redraft and hand in two agreements that we had extensively reviewed in class, and for that work to be A-Level. Perfect, in fact, is what I asked for. This is the email I sent to the class email introducing (surprising) them with Real-Life Learning Exercise #1.
Subject: My next two emails
Hello Class,
I hope this note finds you well. Welcome to Real-Life Learning Exercise #1.
My next two emails to you will contain surprise graded evaluations of Assignment #7, which consisted of drafting:
Your second (V2) draft of your attorney-client agreement.
Your V2 draft of the non-WGA screenwriter work-for-hire agreement.
I went over both drafts in class, and I asked for A-level work, so I expect the V2 versions to demonstrate A-level work.
This real-life learning experience will be straightforward in its evaluation. There are only two possible grades on each contract.
A+ = SUCCESS. You got the client (in the case of the attorney agreement), or you got the dream job. Your cover letter will reflect this achievement, vibrant and compelling.
F = FAIL. You did not get the hypothetical client or job. The cover letter you receive will be a standard form letter, which will undoubtedly be disappointing.
These are real-life win-or-lose scenarios. Your work is either A-level or F, and if it is F, someone else gets your dream job.
These grades do not count toward your final grade.
There will be several more Real-Life Learning Exercises during the semester — and then it’s game time — the bar exam and your career. Sink or swim.
No excuses for late or subpar work will be accepted in these simulations, even if they are valid. In the real world, opportunities missed due to delays are opportunities lost. But…
DO NOT INTERNALIZE FAILURE
If you fail one or both assignments, don’t be too hard on yourself; this is law school. My class and this process is about learning and improvement. You will have opportunities to try again. Never ever internalize failure, learn from the mistake and let it go.
However.
Here, in law school, right now. Briefly consider the impact of an F on Assignment #7. Your document was not good enough, full stop.
Similar all-or-nothing opportunities will occur throughout your career.
Will you step up? Will you be ready? Do you want to risk taking the bar exam multiple times? A-level work is required to get that dream job, to pass the bar. Nothing else counts, even with a valid excuse.
Part B - The Responses
Following are the email responses I sent to each student for each agreement, based upon the quality of work. I have a really great class, my goal is to build confidence and produce great lawyers. The surprise for me was the emotional responses the students reported when they received these emails, positive and negative, even though it was role play.
Contract #1 - A-Level work (attny agreement)
Dear Attorney [student last name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my excitement and appreciation upon receiving the attorney-client agreement. The professionalism and thoroughness reflected in the document assure me that I am in capable hands, and I am eager to embark on this partnership with your office.
Please proceed by sending an invoice for the retainer as outlined in our agreement. We are prepared to wire the funds to your attorney trust account immediately upon receipt of the invoice.
Again, thank you for your attention to detail and the professional courtesy extended to me thus far. I am confident this is the beginning of a successful and fulfilling collaboration.
Warm regards,
John Doe, Client
Contract #1 - F-Level work (attny agreement)
Dear Attorney [student last name],
Upon reviewing the attorney-client agreement you submitted, I must express my profound disappointment in its numerous formatting errors. As such, I have decided to terminate our discussions and will not be engaging your services. I believe it is in my best interests to seek counsel that aligns more closely with the standards and precision I require.
Thank you for your time and efforts. I wish you the best in your future professional endeavors.
John Doe
Contract #2 - A-Level work (screenwriter agreement)
Subject: Welcome to Broken Ocean Studios!
Dear [Student’s Name],
It is with great enthusiasm that we offer you the position of Production Counsel at Broken Ocean Studios. Your writing sample and the professionalism demonstrated in your agreement truly stood out and clearly showcased your expertise and understanding, aligning perfectly with our vision and needs.
We are thrilled to offer you a starting salary of $175,000, complemented by a competitive benefits package that includes stock options, a comprehensive health and wellness plan, and a flexible working schedule to foster work-life balance. Additionally, you will be eligible for our annual performance bonuses. You will have opportunities to participate in corporate legal conferences both nationally and internationally, which will further enhance your professional development.
Your anticipated start date will be April 2, 2025. Our HR team will contact you shortly to guide you through the onboarding process and ensure that everything is set for a smooth transition.
Welcome aboard, [Student Name]! We are looking forward to all that we will achieve together.
Warmest regards,
John Doe, CEO
Broken Ocean Studios
Contract #2 - F-Level work (screenwriter agreement)
Dear Applicant
Thank you for your interest in the Production Counsel position at Broken Ocean Studios and for submitting your writing sample as part of the application process. After thoroughly reviewing your writing sample, we have decided to proceed with another candidate.
We appreciate the effort and time you dedicated to your application and encourage you to apply for future opportunities at our company.
Warm regards,
John Doe, HR Manager
Broken Ocean Studios
