University of Utah : S.J. Quinney College of Law

Civil Clinic

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The Civil Clinic is designed to teach essential skills (interviewing, counseling, problem-analysis, negotiation) for the practice of law. The class promotes reflection on individual strengths and preferences in legal work.

Course: The Lawyering Skills course teaches the theory and practice of interviewing and counseling (through readings, demonstrations, role-playing and videotaped exercises) and introduces the problem-solving strategies of negotiation and advocacy. The class also serves as a forum for students to reflect on their live clinic experiences. Grades are based on videotaped performances and short reflective writing assignments. The course should be taken concurrently with or before the placement. Offered Fall and Summer for 3 credits

Placements: For 2 or 3 credits (P/F) students apply and develop lawyering skills in representing their own clients at public interest law offices. They interview and advise clients, develop strategies, and negotiate and advocate on their clients' behalf in administrative and court hearings. Students may work at any of the following:

Students' legal work may involve family problems, wills, public benefits, basic necessities, housing, immigration, individual rights or protection of the elderly or disabled. A student typically specializes in only one area of law during any one semester.

Registration & Placement: Most students are able to intern at their preferred placement. Students who have previously taken the Skills course may enroll in the placement component of the Civil Clinic in a subsequent semester.

More Information

Faculty Advisor:  Professor Linda F. Smith

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