Tim Holbrook
Chicago-Kent College of Law—Illinois Institute of Technology
Professor Holbrook received his B.S. in Chemical Engineering (summa cum laude) from North Carolina State University and his J.D. from Yale Law School, where he served as a lead editor and publications director of the Yale Journal on Regulation. After law school, he clerked for the Honorable Glenn L. Archer, Jr., of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Following his clerkship, Professor Holbrook spent time in Budapest, Hungary, with the Hungarian patent law firm Danubia. Prior to joining the Chicago-Kent faculty, he was an associate with the Washington, D.C., law firm of Wiley, Rein & Fielding, where his practice focused on patent litigation.
Tim Holbrook On Law Preview . . .
Why do you teach for Law Preview?
I thought it would be an interesting experience, to teach pre-law students, and an invigorating one, because the students are so excited/nervous about law school.
Why is Law Preview better than other modes of preparing for law school?
It is actual exposure not only to the subject matter but also to the "experience" of a law school class. Its hard to capture that environment through reading texts or even watching a film.
Tim Holbrook On Law School . . .
What is the most important skill law students lack when they begin law school that Law Preview teaches?
I don't know enough about the skills sessions, but to me the most value aspect is reducing greatly the fear of the unknown. The students will enter law school with at least a familiarity with the subject matter of the classes. They won't think that "Tort" involves the law of baking!
What are your favorite study aids for the subject-matter you teach at Law Preview?
Gilbert Law Summaries: Property.
What is your favorite fiction/non-fiction book for the subject-matter you teach at Law Preview?
There aren't many. The House of Sand and Fog involves some property issues, although it is rather depressing.
What is your favorite casebook for the subject-matter you teach at Law Preview?
Property by James Krier and Jesse Dukeminier.
Tim Holbrook On Life . . .
What is your greatest accomplishment, professional or personal?
Finishing a variety of endurance events -- 2 AIDS rides (330 miles each time), two marathons, and a half-ironman triathlon.
What person in the legal profession do you most admire?
Carol Rose. She was an outstanding, brilliant professor who also had a great sense of humor and wit. She was brilliant but never felt the need to let everyone else know how brilliant she is. She let her work stand for itself. I model my teaching after her.
If you weren't teaching at your school, what would your "other dream job" be?
Professional beach volleyball player.
How do you relax?
Time at a beach, playing volleyball or just enjoying the rhythm of the waves.
What are you most afraid of?
Getting to a point in my life where I am afraid to try something new or to take risks.
