Opinion ID: 891873
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Clinical Law Program

Text: {23} While there is nothing in the record to confirm it, even defense counsel believed that Mills was a law student, and under the circumstances he likely was. This Court created Rule 1-094 to allow the University of New Mexico School of Law to administer clinical law programs. We are pleased with the success of such programs and believe the experience they afford law students is invaluable. However, this case should serve as a cautionary tale to those participating in clinical programsstudents, faculty, and supervising attorneys alike. The issue in this appeal could likely have been avoided with a minimal amount of care and supervision. {24} Rule 1-094(B) requires written approval of the judge presiding over the case. We specifically created Form 4-821 to use with Rule 1-094. If Mills was in fact a law student, all that was needed was the presiding judge's approval, evidenced by a signature on Form 4-821 and documented in the case file. We recognize that metro court is the busiest court in the state. Bayless could have introduced Mills as a clinical law student, requested oral approval on the record, and later filed the written approval. Metro court is also an excellent place for law students to gain valuable experience. Mindful of the benefits of that experience, we urge those responsible to redouble their efforts and function within the rules provided.