Arguing that there is no better opportunity to teach about the law than when a sensational trial overwhelms the media, this booklet outlines the legal issues involved in the O. J. Simpson trial and presents teaching methods for introducing these issues to students. In a discussion of the trial phase, the booklet explains the concepts of reasonable doubt, preponderance of evidence, elements of murder, special circumstances as well as the categories of direct and circumstantial evidence. Sections on the sentencing and appeals phases of the trial describe the significance of aggravating and mitigating factors and the grounds and procedures for appeal. A question and answer column elucidates the most frequently asked legal questions regarding the trial such as Simpson's plea, the evidence, the relevance of DNA tests, the likelihood of Simpson testifying, and the significance of pretrial publicity. The teaching methods outlined in the booklet call for students to complete and discuss a worksheet on the facts of the trial and to play the role of judge in evaluating the evidence. The booklet also provides the results of a poll of 311 attorneys taken in September, 1994 on the Simpson trial. A copy of the questionnaire is included for distribution to students. A glossary explains the legal terms used throughout the booklet. (JD)