Non-profit/Government Internship/Public Service Lawyering
This course consists of two components focused on public service lawyering: a 3- credit writing seminar (graded) and an internship for either 2 or 3 credits (graded pass/fail). Students must register for both components, earning a total of 5 or 6 credits. Students are expected to work at their internships during most or all of the weeks in which the class meets.
The program sends students into public service practice to gain experiences that they reflect upon and analyze in class. Placement supervisors are experienced attorneys who are asked to provide students with broad exposure to the activities of their offices and varied, demanding assignments. The course will address a variety of topics relevant to the legal profession and becoming a lawyer, including legal ethics, access to justice, advocacy and communication skills, analysis of the lawyering role, etc. Course requirements include short writing assignments, a legal research paper, presentations, and supervision meetings with the instructor.
Students must consult with the course instructor to develop their field placements at government offices and non-profit organizations. (Prosecution and judicial internships do not qualify as placements for this course.) An application and instructor approval is required prior to registration.
Students are required to work 60 hours per credit for their internship: i.e., 120 hours for the 2-credit placement option, and 180 hours for the 3- credit placement option. These hours of work must be completed before the end of fall classes. Each intern will arrange a mutually convenient work schedule with their supervising attorney. Students may not receive compensation (including a Baron & Budd Fellowship) for their internship work.
NOTE: Students should register for 2 or 3 hr. Internship AND Public Service Lawyering seminar.
Harrington, Eden E.