The student-teacher ratio in the clinics is intentionally kept low so as to allow for close supervision of client service, written work, and advocacy. The ratio never exceeds 9 to 1, and is as low as 4 to 1 in some clinics. In most clinics, students are responsible for all aspects of the client's representation, including investigation, interviewing, planning, negotiation, strategic analysis, research, writing, and oral advocacy. They also spend a great deal of time reviewing and reflecting on their own and other students' experiences. Such review teaches students how to critically evaluate legal work.
Some clinics are also open to second-year students.
Students may be chosen either by lottery or by competitive selection. Those clinics using competitive selection base their choices on prior experience, writing samples, and statements of interest. Over 500 students usually apply for one of the approximately 300 clinical seats available each year. In most but not all clinics, third-year students are given preference. Second-year students who unsuccessfully apply are encouraged to apply again, and have a greater chance of being selected in their third year.