National Jurist - November 2008 - (Page 15) cases from beginning to end. She prepared for evidentiary hearings and motions, gathered witness statements, reexamined forensic evidence, and assisted with postconviction proceedings. Now a staff attorney at the law firm, Ortiz helps oversee the work of other clinical students. “Practically, it’s an important facet of your career,” said Ortiz about her experience. “You take those classes that teach you the black letter law, but then you get to go to court and see how it all plays out.” In Illinois, as in many states, law students may obtain a student license which allows them to practice law with supervision, said Professor Richard Kling, who oversees the clinical program at the Law Offices of Chicago-Kent. Kling said he’s had students argue on appeal and deliver the opening statement in a capital case. “It’s essentially getting a taste of what [the practice of law] is, two years before they get their license,” Kling said. Students typically log about 15 hours per week in a clinical class worth three to four credits, though Kling said there is such a positive reaction by students that he often has to “kick students out” after they put in much longer work weeks. But being in a law firm environment teaches more than just practical skills. Students can get acclimated to working with other lawyers, and they also see how the business side of law firms is run. At the Law Offices of Chicago-Kent, students also get exposed to cost and billing issues: they are expected to keep track of their time as if they were associates at a firm, although student time is not billed out to clients. Having a fee-generating clinic also takes some cost pressures off of the law school, Kling said. And for law students, working in a law firm environment — whether feegenerating or simulated — is a great way to explore real-life practice. Gordon said Detroit Mercy students who have participated in the Law Firm Program and gone on to summer associate positions felt they were much better prepared as summer associates. “Students love the idea that they’re learning from people who are practicing and that they can see how these theoretical and substantive courses are applied in real life,” Gordon said. GRADUATING? Check out the entirely online, most advanced MBE preparation program. technologically Accessible from ANY Internet-based computer. Uses only previous bar exam questions. Adjusts presentation of questions based on your strengths and weaknesses. Calculates your optimal timing in each subject. Allows you to compare your performance to other students. Is accessible from your cell phone at adaptibar.mobi. Allows you to email our staff on both technical AND substantive questions. 105% money-back guarantee. Try AdaptiBar for free at www.tryAdaptiBar.com Enroll online at www.adaptibar.com or call us at 877.466.1250 For a limited time, AdaptiBar is yours for only $345. Use promo code NJ118 when enrolling to receive the $50 discount. November 2008 THE NATIONAL JURIST 15 http://www.tryAdaptiBar.com http://www.tryAdaptiBar.com http://www.adaptibar.com
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