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

Judicial Clinic

Tags:access to justice clinic judicial 

   The Judicial Clinic places students to serve as "clerks" to judges in one of two programs. Second- and third-year students may serve as "interns" or part-time clerks, for 2 or 3 credits. Third year students may elect the "externship" program, in which they act as judicial clerks for up to 35 hours a week (12 credits). In either placement, Judicial Clinic students will improve their skills in legal analysis, research and writing as they conduct legal research and draft opinions on pending cases. In addition, the judicial clinic provides a unique perspective on court procedure and practice and on the process of judicial dispute resolution. This field experience is accompanied by the Judicial Process class which should be taken concurrently or following the clinical experience.

   Course: The Judicial Process course provides an opportunity for the students to place their judicial clinic experiences in a broader context, and to explore their insights about courts in greater depth. The class looks at "how judges make decisions." These inquiries may include exploration of effective advocacy techniques, the roles of trial and appellate courts, the standard of review, techniques for good opinion writing, the politics of decision-making, the selection of judges, the effects of judicial socialization and alternatives to the adversary dispute resolution process. Grades may be based upon a paper or final examination, class presentations and class participation. (3 credits or 2 credits, graded, fall & spring) Should be taken concurrently.

   Placement & Registration: Registration in the Judicial Clinic is conditional on being placed with a judge. The student must submit a current resume, writing sample, and authorization to disclose the student's law school transcript to participating judges. Students may rank their court placement preferences, although supervising judges make the final selections.

Orientation and Forms

Faculty: Professors Linda F. Smith , Anne Morgan, and Bonnie L. Mitchell

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