Prospective employers pursue law school graduates who have the skill, knowledge, and professional experience to contribute to their organizations on day one. That is why the Randall O. Sorrels Legal Clinics at South Texas College of Law Houston (STCL Houston)operate like an actual law firm, assigning students to direct client representation and giving them the opportunity to provide legal advice and counsel, preparing them to graduate practice ready.
High Impact, Low-to-No Cost
The Clinics help students hone their lawyering skills while providing free assistance for low-income and disadvantaged populations throughout the Houston metropolitan area. In many cases, court fees are also waived.
In a given year, STCL Houston estimates that clinic students provide over 35,000 hours of direct client services, valued around $1.8 million. Annually, students mediate over 150 disputes and assist with filing dozens of trademark applications.
South Texas actively seeks new ways for its scholars to collaborate with community leaders to meet Houstonians’ changing needs. Last November, the clinics partnered with the Harris County Precinct One Constable’s Office to provide free eviction assistance for hundreds of Houstonians who might have been protected under the CDC eviction moratorium but didn’t know or have the resources to protest wrongful evictions. Through the Clinics’ effort, Houston-area families received much-needed legal relief, and they were able to remain in their homes.
A Wide Range of Opportunities
South Texas offers 23 on-site clinics— more than any other Texas law school — allowing students to get involved in real-life cases covering everything from estate planning and trademarks to criminal defense, asylum and human trafficking, domestic violence and more. Many student report that their experiences in the Clinics have shaped their career goals and helped them decide which areas of law to pursue.
“Each clinic has its own supervising attorney who supports students in their work. With a typical ratio of eight students to one faculty member, we can provide more intense student mentoring,” said Catherine Greene Burnett, associate dean for Experiential Education and professor of law at South Texas.
Due Diligence
To ensure the best results, clients are represented by a team that includes STCL Houston faculty, staff attorneys, paralegals, and law students. Students are given the opportunity to conduct interviews and investigations, draft, counsel, and negotiate with opposing counsel. They also develop case theory, present in court or to agencies, manage client files, identify ethical and professional questions as they arise, and work collaboratively with others in the clinics. South Texas students who participate in the program graduate with a variety of legal skills and aptitudes on their resumes.
Ready to launch your legal career and make a difference?
STCL Houston is currently accepting applications for the Fall 2021 semester. Learn more about enrolling by visiting stcl.edu/explore
