معرفی
Matt Woodham is an Associate Professor of Advocacy and Assistant Director of Advocacy Programs at Cumberland School of Law, Samford University. He holds dual roles in teaching trial advocacy and overseeing advocacy programs. Previously, he served as an assistant public defender in Tuscaloosa County, representing clients in criminal cases ranging from DUI to capital murder. His litigation experience informs his academic contributions and coaching efforts.
Woodham graduated from Cumberland School of Law in 2015, ranking in the top 5% of his class. He was an associate editor of the Cumberland Law Review and led the National Trial Team to the 2014 National Trial Advocacy Competition victory. As a student, he earned awards including the Best Closing Argument (2015 NTC Regionals) and the Michael Rasmussen Excellence in Advocacy Award.
His research and writing focus on trial advocacy and legal procedures. He authored casefiles for the 2021 and 2022 Tournament of Champions Trial Competition and contributes annually to the Trial Handbook for Alabama Lawyers. His upcoming publication in the St. John's Law Review critiques executive privilege in Trump v. United States.
As a coach, Woodham guided Cumberland’s National Trial Team to multiple victories, including the 2017 National Trial Advocacy Competition win and regional championships. His teams also secured best advocate awards and top finishes in competitions like the Capitol City Challenge and UCLA’s The Verdict Trial Competition.
Woodham’s professional development includes National Criminal Defense College training and teaching in-office seminars on evidence and cross-examination. His work bridges legal practice, education, and scholarship, emphasizing advocacy skills and ethical litigation.
