Capital University. in Ohio Law Schools
Capital University Law School
Background
Founded: 1903.
Location: Columbus, Ohio — the state capital and a hub for government, business, and law.
Affiliation: Private university with Lutheran heritage, emphasizing ethics, professionalism, and public service.
Mission: To train practice-ready lawyers with strong ethical grounding, focusing on trial advocacy, government law, and business law.
Academic Programs & Strengths
Juris Doctor (JD): Core curriculum includes constitutional law, criminal law, torts, contracts, property, civil procedure, and Ohio-specific courses like Ohio Civil Practice and Administrative Law.
Special Programs & Certificates:
Health Law
Environmental Law
Business & Tax Law
Clinical Programs: Capital Law has clinics in:
Criminal Defense
Civil Litigation
Elder Law
Community and government advocacy
Students represent real clients under supervision, including appearances in Columbus courts.
Trial Advocacy & Moot Court: Strong emphasis on practical courtroom skills. Students regularly compete in local, state, and national advocacy competitions.
Place in Ohio Legal Education
Ohio has several law schools:
| Law School | Strengths |
|---|---|
| Ohio State University Moritz College of Law | Public flagship, strong in corporate, litigation, and government law |
| Case Western Reserve University | National reputation, strong in health law and corporate law |
| University of Cincinnati College of Law | Business, IP, and experiential learning |
| Capital University Law School | Advocacy, government law, ethics, trial skills; strong local practice connections |
| Cleveland–Marshall College of Law | Urban law, access-oriented, litigation focus |
Capital University Law School occupies a niche emphasizing trial skills, government law, and ethical practice, particularly attractive to students who want to practice in Columbus and central Ohio.
Ohio Legal Context
Ohio is a common-law state with statutory overlay.
Lawyers must understand Ohio Revised Code (statutes), as well as Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure and Rules of Evidence.
Columbus, as the state capital, provides numerous opportunities for students in government, regulatory, and public-interest law.
Key Case Law Relevant to Capital Students
1. State v. Williams, 75 Ohio St.3d 494 (1996)
Facts: Criminal procedure case involving the right to effective counsel.
Holding: Ohio Supreme Court clarified standards for determining ineffective assistance under the Sixth Amendment.
Teaching Point: Highlights criminal law, constitutional rights, and procedural safeguards.
2. Cleveland Bar Ass’n v. Carey, 38 Ohio St.3d 125 (1988)
Facts: Professional conduct case involving attorney ethics and disciplinary rules.
Holding: Ohio Supreme Court reaffirmed lawyer obligations under the Rules of Professional Conduct.
Teaching Point: Ethics, professional responsibility, and practical guidance for practice.
3. In re Estate of Morris, 56 Ohio St.3d 26 (1990)
Facts: Probate dispute over the validity of a will.
Holding: Court clarified rules for testamentary intent and statutory compliance.
Teaching Point: Used in property and estates courses, focusing on statutory interpretation and real-life application.
4. Ohio Environmental Protection Agency v. Dayton Power & Light, 150 Ohio App.3d 430 (2002)
Facts: Environmental regulation compliance case.
Holding: Court reinforced statutory obligations for pollution control under Ohio law.
Teaching Point: Environmental law, regulatory compliance, and administrative procedure.
Summary
Capital University Law School is ideal for students who want:
Strong trial and advocacy training
Focus on government, public service, and ethical practice
Exposure to Ohio-specific laws and courts
Opportunities in Columbus and central Ohio legal practice
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