Family Law Clinic

Catalog description

This clinic offers students the opportunity to learn about the practice of family law from a variety of perspectives, including litigation, mediation, and Family Court proceedings. Working 17-20 hours a week under the supervision of faculty and prac-titioners, students represent clients in divorce litigation, child support enforcement, and family offense proceedings (involving domestic violence) in Family Court; they also assist clients participating in divorce mediation. Although the focus is on family law issues, the clinic provides training in skills applicable to the practice of law generally. Starting with an intensive training program at the beginning of the semester and supplemented by weekly seminars, students learn to interview clients; investigate and develop relevant facts; negotiate on behalf of clients; draft litigation documents; and handle in-court representation.