Written by: Blake Etringer

“I find that persuasive legal analysis scratches a similar itch that high school debate would scratch for me.”

For 3L Kyle Kopf, that connection between debate and the law has shaped his academic path and professional aspirations. From competing in high school debate in West Des Moines and coaching it at Iowa City, to advocating before appellate courts in his final year of law school— Kopf is well on his way to a successful career in litigation.

Gaining real-world experience through appellate work

A lifelong Iowan, Kopf’s journey to the University of Iowa College of Law began with his natural affinity for debate in high school.

“I enjoyed thinking through things analytically and conducting legal research and crafting arguments in a way that was persuasive,” he said. “Debate definitely laid the groundwork for my interest in litigation.”

At the start of his 3L year, Kopf earned the opportunity to gain hands-on litigation experience through an externship with the Iowa Appellate Defender’s Office. He has spent the last two semesters drafting appellate briefs and developing arguments with a level of responsibility that stretches far beyond the classroom.

“It’s been a fantastic balance between doing meaningful work while still having great support and mentorship from my supervisors,” he said. “They’ve given me sufficient autonomy, but there’s also enough guidance to make sure I am learning correctly."

Under the guidance of Carwina Weng, director of field placement programs at Iowa Law, and on-site supervisor Theresa Wilson, assistant appellate defender, Kopf has been able to hone both his writing and oral advocacy skills in a real-world setting.

Arguing before Iowa’s highest courts

Through his externship, Kopf has had the rare opportunity to argue cases before both the Iowa Court of Appeals and the Iowa Supreme Court—an experience few law students can claim.

“Being able to practice thinking on my feet and answering questions from judges and justices was a very practical experience,” he said.

Kopf argued before the Iowa Court of Appeals last December, and before the Iowa Supreme Court in February. Prior to each argument, Kopf addressed the judges about something personal: his lifelong stutter.

“I would make a comment at the start—just to let them know I’ve stuttered my entire life, and it’s not because I’m nervous,” he explained. “That kind of took the weight off my shoulders and made it easier,” he explained. 

The experience not only strengthened his advocacy skills but also reinforced his confidence in the courtroom. 

Looking ahead 

After graduation, Kopf will join Bradley & Riley P.C. in their downtown Iowa City office, where he will continue his work in litigation.

Reflecting on his time at Iowa Law, he emphasized the importance of gaining hands-on experience early and often.

“For students interested in litigation, I would advise them to extern,” he said. “It’s been a fantastic experience. My writing has improved by miles, and I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom in a real-world setting.”

For Kopf, stepping into the courtroom as a student has already helped define the kind of attorney he hopes to become—one grounded in analytical thinking, adaptability, and willingness to embrace challenges without fear.