The Domestic Violence Civil Justice Project will provide full representation and services to low-income victims of domestic violence. Teams of Social Work students and law school students will work together to decide jointly what assistance is required of the battered women with whom they are both working. A background in public interest law is not necessary but is desirable.
Family law is also highly recommended.
Under the direction of Prof. Jacqueline St. Joan , teams consisting of Ruthann M. Macolini , Staff Attorney, Barbara Shaw, M.S.W. , Advocacy Coordinator, law school students and social work interns will work together to help victims of domestic violence. Domestic Violence Civil Justice Clinic students will meet for a 2-4 day orientation prior to the first day of spring classes. The orientation will include intensive training on domestic violence and the legal framework under which it can be addressed. Because the demands of graduation and bar preparation often interfere with responsibilities to clients, clinics are not available to students during their graduating semester. The Domestic Violence Civil Justice Clinic is a substantial commitment.