Why did you choose to work with the Civil Litigation Clinic?
I chose the Civil Litigation Clinic because of the diversity of experience and the high level of responsibility. The Civil Litigation Clinic handles divorce, unemployment, SSI, asylum and housing cases. In addition to gaining experience in the courtroom, we get to conduct real-life interviewing, counseling, mediation and negotiation. Helping real-life clients is much more rewarding than doing exercises in the classroom.
What was your most memorable case, and why?
My most memorable case was a divorce case that I worked on my entire time in the clinic. It was complex because there were third parties involved that we were concerned about, primarily the minor children. In preparation for negotiations, and ultimately trial, I subpoenaed financial and medical records and interviewed experts such as doctors and therapists. It was a lot of work to go through all the evidence and organize it within the framework of the case, but I wouldn't trade that experience for anything.
There is no better way to learn how to present a case in a real courtroom environment than by actually doing it. Having the excellent supervision of Professor Diamond throughout the process gave me the preparation and the confidence to succeed.
Why is it important to represent cases pro bono?
I think representing cases pro bono is extremely important. Our clients are in situations that will substantially alter their lives. Without legal services organizations, most of these people would have no access to the legal system.
What do you think you got out of the program?
I now feel confident doing many of the things lawyers routinely do that you can't learn in the classroom, like working within the court system, advocating for real clients and developing strategy for actual cases that have real consequences for real people. I also developed more confidence, both in the classroom and outside of it. I feel more confident about my future as an attorney.
What are your plans after BU Law?
I've learned from the clinic that I'm now sure I want to be a litigator after I graduate.
What advice would you give to incoming students curious about the clinical programs?
If you want to be a litigator, you must do either the Civil Litigation Clinic or the Criminal Clinic. The skills you learn can't be learned without immersing yourself in real-life experience. You need to immerse yourself in the work. The clients expect it, and the professors expect it. At the end of the program, if you put in a full effort, you'll have gained confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
