Students observe actual mediation and design simulations to hone their techniques. Out of the clinical courses, students started the Concord District Court Small Claims Mediation Program in which students mediate small claims actions. They work on behalf of the elderly, those in need of guardianships, and the mentally disabled. They work as prosecutors and in government for state attorney generals, administrative agencies, and the U.S. Department of Justice. They represent very low-income clients throughout the country.
Many graduates combine private practice with public interest work.
In New Hampshire, Franklin Pierce graduates represent many low-income individuals without compensation through the NH Bar Association s Pro Bono Program. Graduates are also actively involved in professional associations such as the Superior Court Committee on Mediation in Domestic Relations Cases. Together with student groups, funds are raised for summer jobs, workshops conducted, and programs developed. In 1991 the Law Center and Public Interest Coalition, a student organization, inaugurated a program to offer grants to students working for public interest organizations during the summer. Each year the Law Center faculty, staff, students, and private law firms contribute funds via an auction.