For John West, JD ’25, attending Cumberland School of Law was an easy decision. With a clear goal of becoming a trial lawyer, he knew Cumberland’s nationally ranked advocacy program was where he’d receive the best preparation.

 

“I always knew I wanted to be a trial lawyer,” West said. “When it came down to picking a school, the choice was obvious. This was the place to be.”

 

That choice paid off. In addition to being part of numerous national trial team accolades, top competition wins and seven national professionalism awards, West was named the Academic All-American Trial Advocate by the National Association of Legal Advocacy Educators. Yet for West, the recognition reflects not just personal accomplishment but the strength of the program and the people behind it.

 

“Our advocacy program is known not only for its success, but for how we show up—with professionalism and kindness,” he said. “That starts with our coaches. They lead by example and give so much of themselves to help us grow.”

 

Judge Jim Roberts, JD ’94, director of Cumberland’s national trial teams and interim co-director of advocacy programs, said West exemplifies everything the program stands for.

 

“John represents the best of our national trial program at Cumberland,” Roberts said. “He is an excellent student who has had tremendous academic success, a selfless servant who has mentored and guided others through their law school careers, and

a dedicated, hardworking and talented advocate who has represented our school with dignity, grace and the utmost professionalism. It was my great honor to coach, teach and mentor John these past two years.”

 

While competitions shaped his legal skills, West said the most lasting impact came from the relationships he built.

 

“Being part of the advocacy program gave me some of my best friends,” he said. “These are people I’ll stay connected with for life.”

 

West also expressed gratitude for the donors whose support fuels the program’s success.

 

“Support like that is fundamental,” West said. “It’s what allows us to travel, compete and continue raising the bar.”

 

During the 2025-26 term, West is clerking for United States Magistrate Judge Chad W. Bryan in the Middle District of Alabama, with plans to pursue criminal law in government service. Eventually, he hopes to join the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

 

“Regardless of what I do after my clerkship, Cumberland’s advocacy program has prepared me for it,” he said.”

 

And when the time comes, he plans to give back. “I want to be one of those alumni who shows up,” he said. “Whether I’m coaching or just answering questions, I want students to know they’re not alone. That’s the culture here—people pour into you, and you want to do the same.”