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- The Local Advantage: Studying Law in the Coachella Valley
For many hopeful law students, relocating or commuting long distances to attend law school is unrealistic. California Desert Trial Academy College of Law (CDTA) offers a practical and accessible alternative as the only law school located in the Coachella Valley. Students can earn their JD close to home while maintaining the careers, responsibilities, and routines that matter most. Convenient and Accessible for Local Students CDTA’s location in Indio allows students to pursue a legal education without major disruption. Local students benefit from shorter commutes, predictable schedules, and the ability to continue working full-time. Saving time on travel also means more time for studying, family, and personal balance. Students who live in Palm Desert, La Quinta, Palm Springs, or any of the surrounding desert cities have an easy commute to CDTA. Remaining in the community reduces transportation costs, eliminates relocation expenses, and allows students to stay rooted where they feel supported. Strong Connections to the Coachella Valley Legal Community Studying where you plan to practice provides a powerful advantage. CDTA maintains strong relationships with judges, attorneys, and local law offices, giving students access to internships, clerkships, and mentorship opportunities right here in the Valley. These connections help students gain real courtroom experience and build professional networks before graduation. Meeting the Legal Needs of a Growing Region As the Coachella Valley expands, so does the demand for skilled attorneys. CDTA helps prepare graduates who understand the community and are ready to serve it. Whether students are pursuing family law, criminal defense, business law, or another area of practice, they graduate with a strong foundation in both legal knowledge and practical skills. A Practical, Community-Focused Path to a JD CDTA’s small class sizes, hands-on learning, and affordable tuition make it an ideal option for students seeking a realistic path to becoming an attorney. By offering a high-quality legal education close to home, CDTA ensures that local students can pursue their goals without leaving the community they care about.
- The Benefits of Small Class Sizes in Legal Education: Why CDTA Stands Apart
Choosing the right law school involves more than reviewing curriculum and tuition costs. One of the most influential factors in a student’s success is classroom environment. At California Desert Trial Academy College of Law (CDTA), small class sizes are a defining feature of the learning experience. This intentional structure creates a supportive, interactive, and academically stronger environment where students can thrive. Small class sizes are more than a convenience. They shape the entire educational journey and prepare students more effectively for the demands of legal practice. Personalized Attention That Supports Academic Success In large lecture-driven programs, students often struggle to ask questions, get clarification, or have meaningful interactions with instructors. CDTA’s small cohorts allow professors to provide individualized guidance and real-time support. Students benefit from: Immediate feedback during discussions and exercises Opportunities to ask questions without hesitation Instructors who know their strengths, challenges, and progress A more comfortable space to engage in complex legal analysis This level of personalized attention creates stronger comprehension and a deeper understanding of legal concepts. Meaningful Connection With Professors At CDTA, students aren’t just faces in a crowd. Faculty members know their students by name, understand their goals, and are invested in their success. These relationships often extend beyond coursework, offering mentorship, professional guidance, and encouragement throughout the law school journey. For many aspiring attorneys, this connection becomes a valuable resource long after graduation. A Collaborative, Supportive Learning Community Small class sizes naturally foster a sense of community. Students learn together, challenge each other, and support one another through rigorous coursework. Instead of competing for attention or resources, they build meaningful relationships that mirror the teamwork often required in legal practice. Students gain the encouragement they need to stay persistent and motivated. Enhanced Skill Development Through Active Participation Legal education requires more than memorizing statutes or reading case law. It demands strong analytical abilities, communication skills, and practical application. In smaller classes, students don’t just listen—they participate. CDTA’s intimate classroom environment allows for: More frequent participation in discussions Regular practice of oral arguments Hands-on learning through mock trials and simulations Constructive critique from both peers and faculty This active engagement builds skills that translate directly into real-world legal practice. Better Preparation for the California Bar Exam Because CDTA integrates bar-focused material from the beginning, small class sizes allow instructors to identify where each student needs reinforcement. Professors can adjust instruction, offer targeted support, and provide bar-focused strategies throughout the program. This personalized approach strengthens comprehension and retention, helping students feel more confident as they move toward bar preparation. A Learning Environment That Reflects CDTA’s Mission The benefit of small class sizes is not accidental. CDTA’s founders designed the school with a mission to make legal education accessible, supportive, and effective for working adults and nontraditional students. Intimate classrooms play a major role in fulfilling that mission. By maintaining small cohorts, the school ensures every student receives the attention, guidance, and encouragement necessary to succeed. Why Small Classes Matter in Legal Education Large law schools often rely on anonymity and passive learning. CDTA takes a more intentional path. Small class sizes create an environment where students feel seen, heard, and supported. They empower future attorneys to build confidence, develop practical skills, and form lasting professional relationships. For prospective students seeking a law school experience that prioritizes individualized instruction and meaningful connection, CDTA offers a uniquely supportive approach that stands out in the world of legal education.
- A Debt-Free Path to Becoming an Attorney: the CDTA Way
For many aspiring attorneys, the biggest barrier to attending law school is the fear of long-term student loan debt. Traditional law schools often require students to take on substantial financial obligations that follow them far beyond graduation. California Desert Trial Academy College of Law (CDTA) takes a different approach. Its commitment to affordability and accessibility allows students to earn a JD without relying on student loans. CDTA’s financial structure supports working adults, second-career students, and anyone seeking a practical, debt-conscious path to becoming an attorney. The result is a legal education that is both high quality and financially sustainable. A Law School Designed for Real Life CDTA was built with the understanding that many law students balance careers, families, and other responsibilities. The program’s flexible structure, small class sizes, and emphasis on practical training allow students to pursue a legal education without stepping away from their income or dramatically changing their lives. Unlike many law schools, CDTA keeps tuition at a level that aligns with its mission of accessibility. The school believes that cost should not prevent capable, motivated individuals from entering the legal profession. Monthly Tuition Payments Instead of Student Loans One of CDTA’s greatest advantages is its simple, predictable monthly tuition payment plan. This plan allows students to pay for their education while they attend, avoiding the need to borrow money or accumulate interest. The payment plan offers: Consistent, budget-friendly monthly payments No large lump-sum tuition deadlines No interest or added loan costs No long-term financial burden after graduation Because many CDTA students continue working while enrolled, tuition becomes a manageable part of their monthly budget. By the time they complete the program, their education is fully paid for. Financial Freedom After Graduation Graduating from law school without student loan debt is more than a financial victory. It shapes a new attorney’s opportunities, career choices, and long-term stability. CDTA graduates benefit from freedom to choose career paths based on interest rather than income pressure as well as greater financial security early in their legal careers This financial freedom is rare in the world of legal education, where graduates often face decades of repayment. A Practical, Accessible Path to a Legal Career CDTA’s approach reflects a broader philosophy. The school believes that becoming an attorney should be achievable for dedicated individuals from all backgrounds. By removing the financial barriers commonly associated with law school, CDTA creates opportunities for students who might otherwise believe a legal career is out of reach. Graduating debt-free allows new lawyers to step confidently into their professional lives without the limitations imposed by large student loans. It also aligns with CDTA’s commitment to producing ethical, community-minded, and well-prepared attorneys who can focus on service rather than financial strain. Why CDTA Stands Out In a landscape where legal education often comes with a heavy financial price, California Desert Trial Academy College of Law offers something different: a high-quality, practice-focused legal education that students can pay for as they go. For prospective law students seeking affordability, flexibility, and a realistic pathway to becoming an attorney, CDTA provides a model that supports long-term success both academically and financially.
- Pursuing a Law Degree as a Non-Traditional Student
For many aspiring attorneys, the path to law school is linear—college, LSAT, law school, and then the bar exam. But for non-traditional students, the journey often looks very different. If you’re considering a legal education later in life, while working, or after pursuing another career, you’re not alone. California Desert Trial Academy College of Law in Indio is an excellent choice for non-traditional students who are ready to embark on this transformative journey. What is a Non-Traditional Law Student? A non-traditional law student is anyone who doesn’t fit the typical mold of someone attending law school right after earning their undergraduate degree. You may be returning to school after years in the workforce, juggling family responsibilities, or making a complete career change. Your experience and perspective can be an incredible asset in law school and beyond. Why Choose CDTA College of Law? CDTA College of Law, the only law school in the Coachella Valley, offers a flexible and supportive environment that caters to non-traditional students. Here’s why it stands out: Part-Time Evening Program – Many non-traditional students balance work and family obligations. CDTA offers evening classes, allowing you to continue working while earning your law degree. Small Class Sizes & Personalized Attention – Unlike larger law schools, CDTA fosters a close-knit community where students receive individualized support from faculty and staff. Real-World Legal Training – CDTA emphasizes practical, hands-on legal education, preparing students for the realities of practicing law from day one. Accessible and Local – For those in the Coachella Valley, CDTA provides a local option for legal education without requiring relocation or a lengthy commute. Challenges & How to Overcome Them Balancing law school with other responsibilities can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can succeed: Time Management is Key – Create a structured schedule that includes study time, work, and family obligations. Leverage Your Experience – Your life experience can give you an advantage in understanding legal concepts and applying them to real-world scenarios. Seek Support – Whether through classmates, professors, or family, having a strong support system can make all the difference. Stay Organized – Keeping track of assignments, deadlines, and court cases will be crucial for academic success. The Reward of a Legal Education Attending law school as a non-traditional student is a commitment, but the rewards are substantial. A law degree can open doors to new career opportunities, provide the skills to advocate for yourself and others, and allow you to make a meaningful impact in your community. If you’ve been thinking about pursuing a law degree but have hesitated because you’re not a “traditional” student, know that CDTA College of Law welcomes and supports students from all backgrounds. It’s never too late to follow your passion for justice and the legal field. Are you ready to take the next step? CDTA College of Law is be the perfect place to start your legal journey.
- Breaking Boundaries: Why Nontraditional Students Should Consider Law School
In a world that continually embraces diversity and values the unique perspectives each individual brings, the legal profession is no exception. The notion that law school is exclusively for recent graduates or those on a traditional academic path is going by the wayside. Nontraditional students, those who embark on the journey to law school after gaining diverse life experiences, can offer a fresh and valuable perspective to the legal field. Here are some compelling reasons why nontraditional students should consider attending law school: 1. Life Experience as a Strength: Nontraditional students often bring a wealth of real-world experience to the table. Whether it’s through work, travel, or personal challenges, these experiences shape a distinct perspective that can be a valuable asset in understanding and solving legal issues. 2. Diverse Perspectives Enrich Legal Education: Law schools benefit from a diverse student body that represents a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. Nontraditional students contribute unique viewpoints, fostering a richer learning environment for everyone. This diversity can enhance classroom discussions, provide varied solutions to legal problems, and prepare future lawyers for the complexities of the real world. 3. Strong Work Ethic and Time Management Skills: Nontraditional students often have a proven track record of strong work ethic and effective time management. Juggling work, family, and education demonstrates the ability to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously—skills that are invaluable in the demanding environment of law school and legal practice. 4. Commitment to Personal Growth: Pursuing law school as a nontraditional student reflects a commitment to personal growth and lifelong learning. This dedication not only benefits the individual but also contributes to the overall culture of continuous improvement within the legal community. 5. Unique Networking Opportunities: Nontraditional students bring with them established professional networks, which can be advantageous for future legal practice. These connections can open doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities that might not be as readily available to those on a more traditional academic path. 6. Demonstrated Passion and Purpose: Choosing to attend law school as a nontraditional student often stems from a deep passion for justice, advocacy, or a desire to effect positive change. This intrinsic motivation can be a powerful driving force, propelling individuals to excel in their studies and make meaningful contributions to the legal profession. 7. Adaptability and Resilience: Life experiences equip nontraditional students with adaptability and resilience. These qualities are invaluable in navigating the challenges of law school and the legal profession, where unpredictability and adversity are inevitable. 8. Contributing to Legal Specializations: Nontraditional students may already have specialized knowledge or skills in a particular industry or field. Combining this expertise with legal education can lead to unique opportunities to specialize in areas such as environmental law, healthcare law, or technology law. In conclusion, attending law school as a nontraditional student is not only a viable but also a commendable choice. Embracing diversity in legal education enriches the profession as a whole, and the unique perspectives and experiences of nontraditional students contribute immeasurably to the evolving landscape of the legal world. The path to law school is no longer confined to a single trajectory—nontraditional students are breaking boundaries and shaping the future of the legal profession.
- Distance Learning: Direction on the Road to Success
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a permanent shift in the way all students, not just law students, experience the learning process. The physical move and mental transition from classroom to the bedroom have presented new challenges, if not obstacles, for teachers and students alike. Distance learning is a reality that demands students adapt to achieve and maintain academic success. Law school is much more intense than undergraduate studies and demands more time and commitment. Adhering to a predetermined and well-thought schedule that optimally takes advantage of the ways that you learn as an individual is a good way to start. Get an overview of what it will take for you to succeed and do your best in your law school courses. Simply put, in most cases, smart people make it to law school. Use this as the foundation of a confident approach to excelling. If you do your best, you will excel. Of course, studying and learning at home is filled with so many more distractions than the environment of a law school facility. Finding consistency in the maintenance of a healthy balance between work and play is key. Following a work schedule will maintain this consistency and also make the entire process considerably easier in the long run. For some students, maintaining consistent academic success through remote learning tools may provide more problems than solutions. The inability to access libraries, computer labs, archived materials, and even student gathering places may be a formidable obstacle for some. Then there are those students who are mentally fatigued from spending hours using video conferencing applications to interact with their professors and fellow students. This fact supports the necessity to balance studying with any activity unrelated to law school to maintain an eager, fresh approach that helps avoid burnout and isolation. Distance learning makes the use of resources more crucial than ever before. The good news is that the internet exists to help access and utilize these valuable resources. The California Desert Trial Academy (CDTA) provides its students with an extensive distance learning platform available at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The CDTA provides an enriching, academic experience that prepares students to be effective advocates on their first day of practice. To this end, the CDTA utilizes many effective, easy-to-use online tools. Finding another person with whom you can work despite the constraints of the pandemic may help as you can divide the use of resources and then share the results of your work. The academic success of any student is directly related to the use of study tools and the like without any resource limitations. For students to fully optimize their desired learning experience, distance learning systems with adequate resources must always be available. Like traditional law schools, California Desert Trial Academy’s curriculum is designed to teach students the substantive law of core subject areas. Unlike traditional law schools, CDTA emphasizes training and developing students to be capable advocates in any courtroom. The California Desert Trial Academy (CDTA) is a 21 st Century law school that moves students toward a successful legal career on the first day of class. We believe that practical experience in tandem with legal knowledge is the best road to a successful, rewarding, and prosperous legal career. Call us today at (760) 342-0900 or find out more online here .
- Am I Too Old to Go to Law School?
When I was in law school, one of my classmates was a gentleman in his 70s who had self-started and operated a business for over four decades. He had always wanted to go to law school and his retirement gave him a prime opportunity to realize this ambition. Based on his goals and experiences, the answer to the question may be that you are never too old to go to law school. Of course, every person’s circumstances are different. And the older you get, your reasons for going to law school may differ more from those of persons in their twenties. The decision to attend law school is one of the biggest decisions anyone can make. It requires not only a commitment to the years of attendance but a commitment to the testing and application processes necessary for admission. Taking the LSAT and finding the school that’s right for you and is an institution that will accept your admission application is a long arduous road in itself filled with ups and downs. Whether you have always wanted to realize your life’s dream of practicing law or just want to supplement your skills in a different career, going to law school as a thirty- or forty-something, or even older, is not that far-fetched. While most applicants are 25 or younger, a survey of the data shows that 20% of applicants are 30 or older. If you are in your forties or older, you may have more of a financial cushion than a law student in their twenties. Of course, this is a benefit although there is an argument that the younger student is hungrier for success. Still, going forward, your experiences and the fruits thereof are valuable personal resources in any learning environment. Experience goes a long way in helping a student prepare for law school. An older student will have more life, if not professional, experience than a law student in their early or mid-twenties. Your everyday life experiences may include direct familiarity with the application of legal concepts that you encounter in law school. And then there is the potential for expanding your professional network with the people you meet and with whom you form relationships in law school. These include teacher-student, student-student, and student-mentor relationships. As the COVID-19 pandemic has forever changed the educational process, distance learning is a viable way to earn a law degree for anyone at any age. The California Desert Trial Academy (CDTA) has been on the cutting edge of distance learning since it first opened its doors in 2013. CDTA’s distance learning option allows students the opportunity to attend law school in real-time from the comfort of home while providing access to classroom lectures 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Unlike traditional law schools, the California Desert Trial Academy emphasizes training and developing students so that they are capable advocates in any courtroom. The California Desert Trial Academy is a 21 st Century law school that moves students toward a successful legal career on the first day of class. We believe that practical experience in tandem with legal knowledge is the best road to a successful, rewarding, and prosperous legal career for a student of any age. Call us today at (760) 342-0900 or find out more online here .
- Small but Mighty: The Advantages of Choosing a Small Law School
In the vast landscape of legal education, bigger is not always better. Small law schools, often overshadowed by their larger counterparts, offer a unique and personalized experience that can be incredibly beneficial for aspiring lawyers. Here are compelling reasons why opting for a small law school might be the best choice for your legal education journey: 1. Personalized Attention: One of the most significant advantages of attending a small law school is the individualized attention students receive. Smaller class sizes mean that professors can better engage with each student, fostering a more interactive and participatory learning environment. This personalized approach allows for meaningful mentorship, personalized feedback, and a deeper understanding of each student’s strengths and areas for improvement. 2. Tight-Knit Community: Small law schools often cultivate a close-knit and supportive community. Students, faculty, and staff get to know each other on a personal level, creating a sense of camaraderie and collaboration. This tight community can provide a strong support system throughout law school and beyond, facilitating networking opportunities and long-lasting professional relationships. 3. Accessible Faculty: In smaller law schools, faculty members are more accessible to students. Professors are often readily available for one-on-one consultations, academic guidance, and career advice. This accessibility enhances the learning experience and enables students to build meaningful connections with their professors, who can serve as mentors throughout their legal careers. 4. Flexibility in Learning: Smaller institutions often have the flexibility to adapt their curriculum to the evolving needs of the legal profession. This adaptability allows for the integration of new legal trends, emerging areas of practice, and interdisciplinary studies, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the dynamic legal landscape. 5. Opportunities for Leadership and Involvement: With fewer students, there are often more opportunities for leadership roles and active participation in student organizations, law reviews, and moot court competitions. Small law schools empower students to take on leadership positions, fostering a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and the development of valuable leadership skills. 6. Focus on Practical Skills: Small law schools can prioritize practical skills training, emphasizing experiential learning opportunities such as clinics, internships, and externships. This hands-on approach equips students with the practical skills and real-world experience needed for success in the legal profession. 7. Close Collaboration with Peers: Smaller class sizes encourage close collaboration among peers. Students have more opportunities to engage in discussions, share perspectives, and collaborate on projects. This collaborative learning environment enhances critical thinking, communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team—a crucial aspect of legal practice. 8. Less Intimidating Environment: For some students, the intimate setting of a small law school can be less intimidating than a large, bustling institution. A smaller student body and campus create a more familiar and comfortable atmosphere, allowing students to focus on their studies and personal growth without feeling lost in the crowd. In conclusion, the choice of a small law school can provide a transformative and enriching educational experience. The personalized attention, close community, and emphasis on practical skills make small law schools a compelling option for those seeking a more intimate and tailored approach to legal education. Sometimes, greatness comes in smaller packages, and a small law school can offer a powerful and unique foundation for a successful legal career.
- Mastering the Art of Legal Education: John Patrick Dolan’s Expertise as Dean of CDTA College of Law
Legal education is not just about textbooks and lectures; it’s about shaping future legal minds, instilling a passion for justice, and preparing individuals to navigate the complex world of law. At the California Desert Trial Academy (CDTA) College of Law, this commitment to excellence is embodied by the remarkable leadership of Dean John Patrick Dolan. Let’s delve into the expertise that makes Dean Dolan an exceptional force in the realm of legal education. 1. Seasoned Legal Practitioner: John Patrick Dolan is not just an academic; he is a seasoned legal practitioner with over four decades of experience in criminal defense. As a practicing attorney, he brings a wealth of real-world knowledge and practical insights to the CDTA College of Law. His extensive experience in the courtroom serves as a bridge between theory and practice, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded legal education. 2. Passionate Advocate for Justice: Dean Dolan’s career is marked by a deep commitment to justice and advocacy. His passion for ensuring fair and effective legal representation permeates the ethos of CDTA. Students under his guidance are inspired to view the law not just as a profession but as a powerful tool for positive change and social justice. 3. Holistic Approach to Legal Education: Under Dean Dolan’s leadership, CDTA embraces a holistic approach to legal education. Recognizing that the legal profession demands more than just knowledge of statutes, the curriculum is designed to cultivate critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and practical skills essential for success in the legal field. 4. Emphasis on Trial Advocacy: Given Dean Dolan’s background as a trial attorney, CDTA places a strong emphasis on trial advocacy. Students are not just taught legal theories; they are trained to effectively present cases in the courtroom. This hands-on approach sets CDTA apart, equipping graduates with the confidence and skills necessary to excel in trial settings. 5. Mentorship and Accessibility: Dean Dolan’s leadership style is characterized by mentorship and accessibility. He understands the importance of individual guidance in the formative years of legal education. Students at CDTA benefit from Dean Dolan’s open-door policy, allowing them to seek advice, discuss career goals, and receive personalized guidance. 6. Innovative Legal Education Methods: In response to the evolving landscape of the legal profession, Dean Dolan advocates for innovative teaching methods at CDTA. Integrating technology, experiential learning opportunities, and interactive teaching approaches, he ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of a modern legal practice. 7. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Dean Dolan is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. At CDTA, this commitment is reflected in initiatives that foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds. The aim is to produce legal professionals who can effectively serve diverse communities. In conclusion, Dean John Patrick Dolan’s expertise as the leader of CDTA goes beyond the traditional role of a dean. His unique combination of legal acumen, advocacy for justice, and commitment to holistic education creates an environment where aspiring lawyers not only gain knowledge but also develop the skills and values needed to make a positive impact in the legal world. Under his guidance, CDTA stands as a testament to the transformative power of legal education.
- A Debate Team Ace Becomes an Award-Winning Trial Lawyer: Speech Communication Alum John Dolan Honored With Laurence H. Tribe Award
When Lucy Keele heard John Dolan debate for the first time, she knew he was going to be one of the best. “All of us are born with a quotient of critical thinking, but those who come with a big dose of it and happen to be loquacious are natural-born debaters,” said Keele, a Cal State Fullerton professor emeritus of speech communication. “John was one of the four most innately talented debaters I ever had the privilege to coach.” John Dolan ’71 (B.A. speech communication) In his first year on CSUF’s debate team, Dolan qualified for the Novice National Debate Tournament and placed third in the country. During his junior and senior years, Dolan qualified for the National Debate Tournament, where he and his partner, Patty Peoples ’73 (B.A. history), were named one of the best teams in the nation. Dolan was the 10th speaker in the nation out of 104 debaters. After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in speech communication in 1971, Dolan attended Western State University College of Law, built a successful private practice and founded the only law school in Riverside County. He has tried more than 330 cases and has been featured in several episodes of the CBS show, “48 Hours,” for his legal expertise. For his many achievements, Dolan was honored with the 2024 Laurence H. Tribe Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes a National Debate Tournament alum who has used their debate training to make significant contributions to their profession, to society or to humanity. The award is named in honor of the Harvard Law School professor who is considered one the foremost scholars on American Constitutional Law. Putting the Debate Team on the Map Dolan thought he would attend a community college like most of his friends, but a high school English teacher encouraged him to apply to Cal State Fullerton. Initially overwhelmed by the idea of attending a four-year university, Dolan soon got involved in both the debate team and a campus fraternity. He also held several jobs, including driving the monorail at Disneyland and selling tickets at Angel Stadium. The decision to join the debate team proved to be impactful for Dolan, who found himself competing at Ivy League institutions like Harvard and Dartmouth. “Because of John and a few extremely talented debaters, people began to notice our university and invite us to tournaments,” recalled Keele. “We, in large measure, put Fullerton on the national map.” Today, CSUF’s Department of Human Communication Studies continues to boast one of the top debate programs in the country, with students attending national and international competitions each year. “I’m very grateful for all the experience I had at Cal State Fullerton, especially on the debate team, because it really set me up for my career,” said Dolan. Building a Law School Eager to share his passion for trial law and debating, Dolan and his wife, Irene Garcia Dolan, founded the California Desert Trial Academy College of Law in 2012. Now in its 12th year, 38 students have graduated from the school and many practice law in the Coachella Valley. Financed entirely by Dolan and his practice, Dolan Law Offices, the $5 million law school features three state-of-the-art courtrooms and a conference room. The trial courtroom is named in honor of another CSUF alum and fellow debate team member, Terry Giles ’70 (B.A. speech communication). “You really don’t get an education about trial work in law school. You might have one class at the end of your law school career,” explained Dolan, who personally teaches classes and is involved with all aspects of the school. “And if you want to be a courtroom lawyer, there are many skills you need to learn beyond books.” “I cannot emphasize enough how remarkable it is that John and Irene’s vision has come to reality,” added Keele. “He established a law school in an area where there was none, and people who never dreamed they would get to go to law school now have that opportunity.”









