Resources Projects Applications/Forms Spotlights Lecture Series Calendar FAQS
Who is eligible for projects and programs?
All members of the College of Law community - students, staff and faculty - are welcome to become involved with programming and events. The best way to start is by identifying a project or program that interests you and then contacting our office to register or obtain additional information.
How can law students engage in community service and public interest legal work?
The Pro Bono Program partners with numerous community organizations to make service and outreach opportunities available throughout the year. To learn more about when specific programs and events are offered, we encourage you to visit our website on a regular basis to consult our frequently updated calendar. When you’re on campus, you can also learn about upcoming events by reading the information posted in the Student Life bulletin boards outside the student lounge. In addition to ongoing projects, we host and participate in several short-term endeavors, such as blood drives, walk-a-thons, and days of service on behalf of the United Way and other organizations. Please note that several student-led organizations also sponsor service projects and volunteer opportunities.
Are there also opportunities for legal advocacy on behalf of clients or agencies?
Yes. the Pro Bono Program collaborates with legal services providers and pro bono attorneys to enhance the delivery of legal services to those most in need. The calendar features training opportunities for programs including the OCBA Volunteer Lawyer project and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, among others. Students are also able to assist with client intake, screening, law-related education, community presentations, and more. In addition, the new Pro Bono Legal Research Project teams students with attorneys who need assistance with legal research and writing pertinent to an active pro bono case.
As a volunteer, does a student have to perform a minimum number of hours?
No. All students, however, are strongly encouraged to accept the SUCOL Challenge and perform at least 30 hours of service. The diversity within our projects is designed to allow for varying levels of participation. For a 1L who can give a few hours on a Saturday once a month, there are several options and for those who are able to make more of a commitment, there are many programs allowing for ongoing participation.
How are students recognized for their commitment to public interest and the community?
Each Spring, students, faculty, alumni, and staff gather for the Annual Pro Bono & Public Service Recognition Breakfast. Graduating students who have met the challenge are recognized and given cords to wear at Graduation. In addition, the three students with the total number of service hours performed are given a plaque. More information about the Recognition provided to students is available online.
What if I don’t see a project reflecting my area(s) of interest?
By all means --- let us know. The Pro Bono Program is a dynamic program reflecting the interests and expertise of our students, faculty and staff. We continue to grow exponentially because of new energy and initiatives and we look forward to hearing your thoughts, interests and ideas.
Does the College of Law have clinics?
Yes. The College of Law will have seven clinics for the 09-10 academic year; Children's Right and Family Law, Community Development, Criminal Defense, Disability Law, Elder Law, Low Income Tax, and the Securities and Arbitration Clinic. For more information, please visit the Clinical Education website.
Does the Syracuse University College of Law support summer public interest work?
Yes. Students will find that there are many opportunities for summer public interest work including SPIN Fellows. Throughout the year, the Professional Development Office, along with the Pro Bono Program and the Syracuse Public Interest Network (SPIN), advertise opportunities for summer employment, along with information on how to receive funding for such opportunities.
What are SPIN Fellows?
To be considered for a SPIN Fellowship, students must obtain public interest positions and be otherwise uncompensated for their work. During the summer of 2009, SPIN is proud to have sponsored 14 Summer Fellows worldwide.
Who is eligible to apply to be a SPIN Fellow?
Current and continuing students are eligible to apply for SPIN Fellowships during the school year for the summer. Students who are selected as Summer Fellows must complete at least 300 hours of service at a qualifying agency and receive a stipend.
Is the SUCOL Faculty involved in public interest/pro bono work?
Yes. A number of faculty are involved in public interest and pro bono work in areas ranging from environmental issues, bankruptcy, criminal appeals, human rights, disability law, education law, to name just a few.