Domestic Violence Clinic   [Archived Catalog]
2018-2019 School of Law Bulletin
   

LAWS 752 - Domestic Violence Clinic


Credits: 6

This course will train students to assume the role of lawyer and introduce them to domestic violence law and practice.  Through classroom discussion, simulations, assigned readings, client representation, and community-based projects, the course will cover central concepts of laws governing civil injunctive remedies for intimate partner abuse, including orders of protection, restraining orders, and permanent protection orders, as well as related relief, such as custody and visitation, child support, and crime victims' compensation.  Students will apply their substantive knowledge by representing clients seeking these forms of relief.  Through client representation, students will have an opportunity to develop legal skills including: interviewing, counseling, fact investigation, legal research, writing, and analysis, case strategy, negotiation, and courtroom advocacy, as well as professional and life skills relating to legal practice.  The course also will give students an opportunity to consider the broader context of their individual cases through class discussion and community-based projects, which may include know-your-rights presentations, limited advice and assistance clinics, and policy research.  In some semesters, students may have the additional opportunity to represent clients in administrative matters related to their experience of domestic violence, such as in applying for affirmative immigration remedies or parole.  All student work on cases and community based projects will be completed under the supervision of a clinical professor.



Corequisites: Problems in Professional Responsibility

Prerequisites: Evidence and Professional Responsibility or Problems in Professional Responsibility (can be completed as a co-requisite); in addition, students must be in their third year and must be eligible for certification under the Student Practice Rule (Rule 401).

 

Note: This course satisfies the professional skills course graduation requirement.

For first year students entering Fall 2016, this course satisfies the experiential course graduation requirement.

Basis of Grade: Students will be graded on their performance on casework and community­ based projects, as well as their participation in class discussions and exercises.

Form of Grade: Letter Grade