About the Service Program

Law Service Spotlight Teach Street Law "By giving these students a legal structure in which to frame their civic interactions, we enable them to more clearly identify injustices in their communities and to better assert their rights as citizens." - Daniel Goldman '11L View All Profiles

One of the core values of the W&L Law community is professionalism.  To us, professionalism calls upon us not only to approach the practice of law with honor, care, and diligence but also to serve our communities and our profession.  This duty to serve derives not only from the longstanding W&L commitment to honor but also from the expectations of the greater legal community.  In Rule 6.1 of its Model Rules of Professional Conduct, the American Bar Association has called upon all lawyers to engage in direct pro bono representation of indigent clients.  There is also a general expectation within the profession that lawyers will be involved in the life of their legal community through participation in local bar association activities and committees. 

Our Law-Related Service Program reflects this dual obligation by requiring all students enrolled in the Third Year Program to complete at least forty hours (40) of legal service to the public and/or service to the legal profession during their third year.  Ideally, students will participate in a combination of both.  During their hours of service, students will not only internalize the importance of incorporating service into their legal career, but they will also have an invaluable opportunity to hone their professional skills.

It should be noted that the Law-Related Service Program is not limited to students enrolled in the Third Year Program.  The placement and support services of the Law-Related Service Program are available to all 2L and 3L students who are interested in serving others while improving their professional skills.  Indeed, all students are strongly encouraged to participate, and those who complete more than one hundred hours (100) of uncompensated service will be awarded a certificate, and their extraordinary service will be noted at commencement.

For W&L Law Students

• Read the Guidelines and Policies for an overview of the program and your responsibilities.
• Information on finding a project to work with.
• Log your service hours.

For Attorneys or Organizations that Would Like a Student's Help

Visit Posting a Project to get started.

For Individuals Seeking Legal Help

W&L's Law-Related Service Program is unable to accept cases directly from the public.  Please click here for a list of organizations that may be able to help you.