When justice calls, Stetson Law is the answer.

Transcription

1 Tampa Bay Florida

2 A close-knit community The highest standards Dedicated, accessible faculty A balanced curriculum Elective courses Concentration opportunities Clinic and internship programs A national powerhouse in advocacy Study-abroad programs Breathtaking architecture Student activities Helpful career guidance Attractions, beaches and activities Admission, scholarships and finances Campus discovery Talented professors and deans If you are self-motivated, dedicated and want to make a true difference in the world, we hope you will consider Stetson University College of Law as your law school. Stetson is grounded in a tradition of excellence, and is responsive to the ever-changing needs of our students and the legal profession. Darby Dickerson Vice President and Dean, Stetson University College of Law, and Author, ALWD Citation Manual B.A., M.A., College of William and Mary; J.D., Vanderbilt University

3 When justice calls, Stetson Law is the answer. Stetson will invest in your success and provide the tools, support, and opportunities for you to emerge as an integral and effective member of the legal profession. Stetson lawyers are comfortable in the courtroom, the boardroom, and the halls of government. For 110 years, they have distinguished themselves in a variety of settings ranging from solo practice to megafirms, corporations to legal-services organizations, and city halls to Congress. They are skilled practitioners, respected jurists and thriving entrepreneurs. Our professors teach interactive courses that carefully balance legal theory, policy, and world-class skills training. This approach will prepare you to practice with sophistication and skill. Through experiences inside and outside the traditional classroom, you will learn to connect facts with doctrine to craft creative solutions to an evolving array of legal issues. And from the very first semester, you will learn to advocate persuasively for clients and causes. You will complete a rigorous required curriculum that emphasizes both learning and doing. You will apply your knowledge by researching issues, negotiating and drafting legal documents, presenting oral arguments, participating in mock trials, and working closely with practicing attorneys. With this solid foundation, you may then customize the balance of your legal education. You may choose to focus your elective courses on a particular field, pursue a dual degree, study abroad, serve on a journal, or intern for a judge or government agency. Regardless of your chosen path, the hallmarks of a Stetson legal education remain the same: A nationally ranked program of skills training. Incredible opportunities for professional experience through clinics, internships and advocacy competitions. A rich and diversified intellectual life that includes regular opportunities to interact with distinguished scholars, practitioners, government officials and judges. A commitment to professionalism and public service which also integrates students into the legal system at an early stage in their career. And a talented, accessible faculty who care about your success. Read on to discover how Stetson can prepare you to answer the call to justice. 1

4 I have never attended an academic institution that made me feel so welcomed. Stetson has the friendly and welcoming environment I was looking for. Although Stetson provides a challenging legal program, the faculty and staff are always here to support you and guide you through your years as a law student. Luis A. Santos 10 Tampa, Florida Associate, Ford & Harrison LLP Member, Moot Court Board and Honors Program B.S., Florida International University J.D., Stetson University A close-knit community will support you during some of the most challenging, rewarding years of your educational career. From the moment you arrive, you ll notice a difference at Stetson. A student ambassador serves as your personal mentor, guiding you through orientation and beyond. An involved and committed faculty offers a level of access rarely found in larger institutions, and a friendly administrative staff provides personalized attention. Faculty are involved in almost every aspect of campus life and are passionate about working with students both inside and outside the classroom. Student organizations provide opportunities for building leadership skills and relationships with peers, practicing attorneys and judges. An involved alumni community of more than 9,000 lawyers provides an international network of connections as you launch your legal career. By the numbers: Students 811 full-time JDs 179 part-time JDs 40 LLMs 288 colleges/universities 53 percent women 22 percent minorities as of Spring 2010 Stetson s student body of more than 1,000 reflects diverse academic, professional and ethnic backgrounds. About half of Stetson s full-time students have work experience; the other half starts directly from college or graduate school. 2

5 The heart of Stetson Law is relationships that foster learning and professional growth. We are a community of scholars who share an abiding belief in the power of law to change our world in positive and profound ways. We are proud of our chosen profession and committed to bringing out the best in one another. Professor Kristen David Adams Associate Dean for Academics Author, Commercial Transactions: A Survey of United States Law with International Perspective, and co-author, The Practice of Law School: Getting In and Making the Most of Your Legal Education B.A., Rice University; J.D., Emory University; LL.M., Yale University 3

6 4 Supreme Speakers Nine supreme court justices participated in Stetson programs in : Hon. Clarence Thomas (U.S. Supreme Court, pictured), Rt. Hon. Beverley McLachlin (chief justice, Canada), Hon. Susan Gageby Denham (Ireland), Hon. Adrian Saunders (Caribbean), Hon. Carol Hunstein JD 76 (chief justice, Georgia), Hon. Peggy Quince LLD 99 (chief justice, Florida), Hon. Janice Holder (chief justice, Tennessee), Hon. James E.C. Perry (Florida), and Hon. Andrew G.T. Moore (retired, Delaware).

7 The highest standards of professionalism, ethics and integrity are expected from all. At Stetson, the practice of becoming a great lawyer takes on a deeper meaning. Professors and students alike appreciate the responsibility to serve justice and improve society. The Stetson Law Mission Stetson University College of Law provides a dynamic and supportive scholarly community in which students learn, in and outside the classroom and by example, to become outstanding lawyers and leaders who serve the profession and society. Students build competence by completing an innovative, comprehensive curriculum that integrates an intensive program of skills training through legal clinics, internships, advocacy competitions and other hands-on experiences. Stetson graduates enter the workforce ready to be productive, successful professionals. You will be regarded as a member of the legal profession starting your first day of law school. High ethical standards are expected from every member of the Stetson community. Every first-year student participates in a Professionalism Series that fosters discussion on current issues facing members of the legal profession. Each spring, students learn about attorneys roles and responsibilities through a fullday event dedicated to interacting with practitioners and judges. My years at Stetson prepared me well for the practice of law. Stetson offers a rigorous curriculum in an environment that fosters excellence. The high academic standards and emphasis on clinical practice provide students with an outstanding legal education. I give my alma mater substantial credit for my success in the legal and judicial system. Chief Justice Carol Hunstein 76 Supreme Court of Georgia Atlanta B.S., Florida Atlantic University; J.D., Stetson University Students donate more than 16,000 hours of pro-bono service annually to more than 150 organizations. Stetson s commitment to service is demonstrated through our 60-hour pro-bono graduation requirement, the highest of any law school in the nation. 5

8 A dedicated, accessible faculty is committed to the academic and professional success of every student. My Stetson Law education has been a crucial foundation to all of my successes as an attorney. The rigorous writing and skills programs, along with a solid ethical foundation taught at Stetson, have allowed me to provide my clients with superior representation. Jason Turner 04 Listed in Billboard Magazine s under 30 most influential young music executives Associate, Lassiter, Tidwell, Davis, Keller & Hogan, PLLC Stetson Law Adjunct Professor (Entertainment Law) B.B.A., Belmont University; J.D., Stetson University Stetson s greatest resource is its faculty the academic talent who share their experiences and passion for the law with generations of lawyers. Stetson professors genuinely enjoy teaching and guiding students into the profession and practice. They will challenge you to reach your full potential. They will create opportunities for you to consider not only what the law is, but what it should be. Our professors are among the finest legal educators in the country: Fulbright scholars, Supreme Court advocates, acclaimed authors and public servants. Stetson educators inspire students through their dedication to teaching, demonstrated commitment to community service, and record of high-quality scholarship. The fulltime faculty is supplemented by outstanding practicing attorneys and judges who serve as adjunct professors in specialized areas. By the numbers: Faculty 51 full-time regular faculty 69 books written 10 visiting full-time faculty 64 adjunct faculty 10 professional librarians as of Fall 2010 Each year, a wide variety of speakers and visitors from around the world frequently make presentations on campus, providing new perspectives for a balanced, comprehensive educational experience. Recent academic speakers have included professors from Yale University, Cornell University, King s College London and other institutions. Speakers have also included sitting justices, highlevel government officials, ABA leaders and renowned trial attorneys. Professor Peter L. Fitzgerald, former Fulbright Distinguished Scholar, author of International Issues in Animal Law (forthcoming), and co-author of the International Business Transactions series, with his certified therapy dog, Duncan. 6

9 The Stetson community comprises a diverse student body from all over the country, working together in academic collegiality. Exceptional access to an outstanding faculty makes Stetson a wonderful academic environment for the rigorous study of law. Professor Luz Estella Nagle Member, International Bar Association Legal Practice Division Council LL.D., Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana; M.A., LL.M., University of California at Los Angeles; J.D., College of William and Mary 7

10 Full-Time J.D. Required Curriculum Most full-time students complete the required curriculum in the sequence listed below. FIRST SEMESTER (Fall) Civil Procedure Contracts Criminal Law Research and Writing I SECOND SEMESTER (Spring) Constitutional Law I Real Property Torts Research and Writing II Third semester (Summer and/or Fall) Professional Responsibility Total credit hours required: 88 Minimum course load for full-time residency status: 15 credit hours/semester for first year and 10 credit hours/ semester thereafter Estimated time for completion: Three years (may be completed in 2.5 years by attending summer sessions) See page 11 for area requirements. The curriculum is subject to change. Stetson has a dedicated faculty. Through research and writing endeavors, Stetson faculty members remain on the cutting edge of their legal specialties. We strive not only to be current in the law, but also to provide students with answers and explanations incorporating current events and social mores. Students are provided the requisite tools that enable them to utilize and hone their critical thinking skills. Professor Cynthia Hawkins DeBose Author, Mastering Adoption Law, and co-author, Mastering Property (both books forthcoming) and Past Chair, Women in Legal Education Section of Association of American Law Schools B.A., Wellesley College; J.D., Harvard University 8

11 A balanced curriculum provides fundamental courses, practical training, and a variety of electives. The J.D. curriculum combines foundational courses in contracts, torts, property, constitutional law, civil procedure, criminal law, and legal research and writing, with area requirements and electives for a wellrounded educational experience. J.D. students must complete 88 credit hours and perform 60 hours of pro-bono service to graduate. You will spend the first half of your legal education completing most of the required curriculum. Electives that fulfill skills, writing, administrative and code area requirements are completed in the final semesters. Credits may be earned through international programs, co-curricular activities and internships. You can improve your classroom performance through academic success workshops designed to help students adapt quickly to the educational demands of law school. These workshops offer tips on carefully reading and briefing cases, learning legal rules, legal analysis, outlining, and exam strategies. Stetson also devotes considerable resources to guide you in your planning and preparation for the bar examination. Programs range from information sessions in the first year of law school to a for-credit, on-line Multistate Strategies course and a SuperBar Weekend workshop in your final semester. A full-time faculty member serves as Director of Bar Preparation Services and is available for individual counseling and group guidance. Stetson s bar-passage rate has historically ranked above the state average for Florida, and our graduates also have been successful in gaining bar admission in many other jurisdictions. Part-Time J.D. Required Curriculum All part-time students are required to take classes at both the Gulfport campus and the Tampa Law Center during the required curriculum. In most semesters, required classes will meet 2 days per week in Tampa and 1 day per week in Gulfport. Part-time students who wish to take additional credits in Tampa may do so, up to a maximum of 45 total credit hours. FIRST FALL SEMESTER Contracts Torts FIRST SPRING SEMESTER Real Property or Civil Procedure Research and Writing I FIRST SUMMER SESSION Criminal Law Real Property or Civil Procedure SECOND FALL SEMESTER Constitutional Law I Professional Responsibility Research and Writing II Total credit hours required: 88 Estimated part-time course load: 7-11 credit hours in fall and spring 5-7 credit hours in summer Estimated time for completion: Four years, including summers (Students who meet certain academic criteria may apply to transfer to the full-time program in any semester after completing 28 credit hours.) See page 11 for area requirements. The curriculum is subject to change. 9

12 Discover the law through elective courses covering historic and cutting-edge topics. 10 I chose Stetson because of its reputation, size, location and flexibility. Stetson s locations in Gulfport and Tampa and its part-time program are perfect for me. I can attend law school and have time for my family. Tara Wheat Third-Year Part-Time Student Tampa, Florida B.S., Florida Southern College Advocacy and Skills Academic Skills Workshop Advanced Civil Trial Skills Advanced Criminal Trial Advocacy Advanced Critical Thinking Advanced Legal Research Advanced Legal Research, Florida Law Advanced Legal Research, International Law Advanced Legal Research, Tax Alternate Dispute Resolution Board Appellate Practice Arbitration Civil Poverty Clinic Complex Litigation Conflict of Laws Constitutional Litigation Criminal Procedure Depositions Elder Law Clinic Electronic Discovery Expert Witness Federal Civil Pre-Trial Practice and Strategy Federal Courts and the Federal System Federal Government Litigation Internship Financial Advocacy Florida Civil Procedure Florida Criminal Procedure Florida Practice Immigration Litigation and Advocacy International Litigation and Arbitration Interviewing and Counseling Judicial Decision Making Appellate Context Judicial Internships Law and Policy Internship Legal Drafting Labor Law Internship Local Government Clinic Mediation Skills Training Midpoint-Academic Support and Enrichment Moot Court Board Multistate Strategies Negotiation and Mediation Polishing for Professionals Workshop Post-Trial and Appellate Practice Pre-Trial Practice Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Scientific Evidence Workshop State Litigation Internship Stetson Law Review Supreme Court Advocacy & Procedure Technology in Litigation Trial Advocacy Trial Team Veterans Appellate Rights Clinic Business/Corporate/ Commercial Law Advanced Corporate Law Seminar Agency & Unincorporated Organizations Antitrust Law Bankruptcy Bankruptcy Seminar Bankruptcy Judicial Internship Commercial Transactions Commercial Transactions Seminar Construction Law Consumer Protection Law Copyright Law Corporate Taxation Corporations Delaware Influence on Corporate Law Electronic Commerce Seminar Entertainment Law Federal Taxation I Federal Taxation II Federal Tax Practice and Procedure Financial Advocacy Florida Tort Law In-House Counsel Internship Insurance International Business Transactions International Intellectual Property International Sales Law and Arbitration International Trade Regulation Law and Economics Law of Financial Institutions Law Practice Management Non-Litigation Drafting Nonprofit Seminar Organization of Business Enterprise Partnership Taxation Patent Law Payment Systems Products Liability Real Property Finance Sales, Leases and Licenses Secured Transactions Securities Regulation Sports Law Trademarks and Unfair Competition White Collar Crime (See also: Labor and Employment Law) Criminal Law Advanced Criminal Trial Advocacy Comparative Transnational Criminal Law Criminal Adjudication Criminal Procedure Criminal Responsibility Seminar Death Penalty Seminar Ethics and the Practice of Criminal Law Florida Criminal Procedure International Criminal Law Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Scientific Evidence Workshop Sentencing White Collar Crime Elder Law Administrative Law Aging and the Law Arbitration Civil Elder Law Clinic Disability Law Elder and Disability Law Internship Elder Consumer Protection Internship Elder Law Drafting Elder Law Seminar Estate Planning Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts Health Insurance Insurance Interviewing and Counseling Journal of International Aging Law and Policy Negotiation and Mediation Survey of Florida Probate Trusts and Estates Environmental Law Administrative Law Animal Law Seminar Environmental Hazards Associated with Real Property Environmental Law Environmental Law Internship Florida Administrative Law International Environmental Law International Trade and the Environment Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy Land Use Planning Natural Resources Seminar Ocean and Coastal Law Policy Wetlands Seminar Family Law Adoption Law Seminar Children and the Law Family Law Family Law Internship Family Law Mediation Family Law Seminar Judicial Internship Reproductive Technology and the Law General Civil Law Administrative Law Advanced Tort Law Children and the Law Conflict of Laws Constitutional Litigation Cyberlaw Seminar Education Law Elder Law Seminar Family Law Family Law Litigation Federal Civil Pre-Trial Practice and Strategy Federal Courts and the Federal System Federal Taxation I Federal Taxation II Florida Administrative Law Florida Civil Procedure Florida Real Estate Law Insurance Labor Law Law and Economics Law and Higher Education Policy Legal Drafting Media Law Media Law Seminar Pre-Trial Practice Products Liability Real Property Finance Remedies Sales, Leases and Licences Tort Law Practice and Skills Trial Advocacy Trusts and Estates

13 Area Requirements Students must complete one course in each of these areas. (Subject to change.) Health Law Administrative Law Advanced Torts Seminar Arbitration Disability Law Elder Law Seminar Florida Tort Law Health Insurance Insurance Interviewing and Counseling Mental Health Law Seminar Negotiation and Mediation Reproductive Technology and the Law Intellectual Property Law Copyright Law Entertainment Law Intellectual Property Internship International Intellectual Property Patent Law Trademarks and Unfair Competition International Law Admiralty Caribbean Law Internship Chinese Legal Systems Seminar Immigration Law Immigration Litigation and Advocacy International Business Transactions International Criminal Law International Distributive Justice Seminar International Environmental Law International Human Rights Seminar International Intellectual Property International Law International Litigation and Arbitration International Sales Law and Arbitration International Trade and the Environment International Trade Regulation Journal of International Aging Law and Policy Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy Jurisprudence, History and Comparative Law Advanced Comparative Tort Law American Legal History Comparative Corporate Law Constitutional Law and Civil Rights Honors Colloquium Jurisprudence Jurisprudence Honors Seminar Jurisprudence Seminar Law and Economics Law and Religion Law and Sexual Orientation Seminar Law, History and Philosophy Seminar Law, Literature and Film Seminar Race and the Law Seminar Theories of Constitutional Interpretation Seminar Western Legal Thought Seminar Labor and Employment Law Constitutional Law and Civil Rights Employee Benefits Employment Discrimination Equal Employment Opportunity Internship Employment Law Labor Law Labor Law Internship Law and Sexual Orientation Seminar Workers Compensation Property Law and Probate Copyright Law Elder Law Drafting Estate Planning Federal Taxation I Federal Taxation II Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts Florida Real Estate Law Land Use Law Land Use Planning Patent Law Real Property Finance Survey of Florida Probate Trademarks and Unfair Competition Trusts and Estates Public Interest Law Children and the Law Civil Poverty Clinic Constitutional Law and Civil Rights Constitutional Law II Constitutional Litigation Consumer Protection Law Disability Law Education Law Elder Law Clinic Elder Law Internship Elder Law Seminar Family Law Family Law Internship Federal Courts and the Federal System Homeless Advocacy Internship Human Trafficking: National, International and Immigration Issues International Distributive Justice Seminar Labor Law Internship Land Use Planning Local Government Clinic Poverty Law Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Remedies Public Law Administrative Law Antitrust Law Children and the Law Civil Poverty Clinic Conflict of Laws Constitutional Law II Constitutional Litigation Defamation, Privacy & Other Economic Torts Disability Law Elder Law Clinic Elder Law Seminar Environmental Law Florida Constitutional Law Immigration Clinic Immigration Law Immigration Litigation and Advocacy International Intellectual Property International Law International Trade Regulation Labor Law Internship Land Use Planning Law and Economics Legislation Local Government Clinic Military Law Municipal and Administrative Law Internship Natural Resources Seminar Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Securities Regulation Theories of Constitutional Interpretation Seminar Spanish-Language Courses Interviewing and Counseling in Spanish International Sales Law and Arbitration in Spanish Tax Law Corporate Taxation Employee Benefits Estate Planning Federal Taxation I Federal Taxation II Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts Federal Tax Practice and Procedure Partnership Taxation The courses listed above have been offered during the past two academic years. Because the scheduling of a particular course depends on faculty availability, student interest and other considerations, not all of these courses may be offered in the future. For further information, please call the Office of Admissions and Student Financial Planning at or lawadmit@law.stetson.edu. Administrative Law Administrative Law Administrative Law for Health Care Consumer Protection Law Employment Discrimination Environmental Law Environmental Regulation of Water Federal Tax Practice and Procedure Florida Administrative Law International Trade and the Environment International Trade Regulation Labor Law Land Use Law Poverty Law Securities Regulation Water Law: Public and Private Rights Code Bankruptcy Commercial Transactions Federal Taxation I Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts International Sales Law and Arbitration Payment Systems Sales, Leases and Licenses Secured Transactions Writing Stetson Law Review service, writing a paper of publishable quality Seminar course with research paper A faculty-supervised individual research project with research paper Skills Alternative Dispute Resolution Appellate Practice Arbitration Civil Poverty Clinic Elder Law Clinic Family Law Mediation Federal Civil Pre-Trial Practice and Strategy Human Trafficking: National, International and Immigration Issues Immigration Law Clinic Immigration Litigation and Advocacy International Sales Law and Arbitration in Spanish Interviewing and Counseling Interviewing and Counseling in Spanish Local Government Clinic Mediation Skills Training Negotiation and Mediation Pre-Trial Practice Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Post-Trial and Appellate Practice Supreme Court Advocacy and Process Tort Law Practice and Skills Trial Advocacy 11

14 Stetson is a tremendous institution that fosters great legal writing. I am proud to be a part of Stetson Law. Forrest J. Bass 09 Punta Gorda, Florida 2010 recipient of national Burton Award for Legal Writing (fourth Stetson winner in 10 years) Associate, Farr, Farr, Emerich, Hackett & Carr P.A. B.A., Flagler College; J.D., Stetson University Specialize your coursework to earn a certificate of concentration, or go the extra mile and pursue a second graduate degree. Certificates of Concentration Students may specialize their elective curriculum to earn a Certificate of Concentration in advocacy, elder law or international law. Students may apply for a concentration program after completing 30 hours of study. Candidates who are admitted to a concentration program are expected to complete at least 21 credit hours of courses in the specialty and other requirements. J.D./M.B.A. The College of Law and Stetson s AACSB-accredited School of Business Administration offer an accelerated course of study leading to Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration degrees. This program, offered in Tampa Bay, is designed to broaden career opportunities in law and business. Students must be admitted to both programs. Fulltime students typically complete both degrees within three years, including at least one summer. Part-time students also are eligible for this program. International Travel and Exchange See page 19 for information about other study-abroad opportunities. Intellectual Property Exchange After the first year, students interested in specializing in intellectual property law may participate in an exchange program with Franklin Pierce Law Center for a semester. A private independent law school in Concord, N.H., Franklin Pierce offers one of the broadest intellectual law curricula in the country. Honors Program High-achieving students may be invited to join Stetson s full-year Honors Program after their first year (or second year if enrolled part-time). Honors Program students participate in an Honors Colloquium with several faculty members and take a special Honors Jurisprudence Seminar. Members also are invited to other special events on campus. J.D./M.P.H. or J.D./M.D. with the University of South Florida In cooperation with the University of South Florida in Tampa, Stetson offers dual-degree programs for students interested in earning degrees in law and public health or medicine. Students must be admitted separately to both programs before starting either one. Full-time students may save a semester of study by enrolling in these programs. J.D./Grado with the University of Granada Stetson offers a four-year, dual-degree program with the University of Granada for full-time students interested in earning a U.S. Juris Doctor degree and Spanish Grado law degree. Students must speak fluent Spanish to be considered for admission to this program, and must be willing and able to live in Spain for two consecutive years. Constitutional Law and the Civil Rights Movement Travel Course Each summer, a class of Stetson and University of South Florida students follow the steps of the Freedom Riders on a trip through the South, visiting historic sites and civil rights leaders. Centers for Excellence Stetson s Centers for Excellence in advocacy, elder law, higher education law and policy, and international law sponsor conferences, workshops, continuing legal education programs, certificate programs, scholarship and research projects within their specialized areas. Stetson students may serve as fellows who assist with research and major projects, and conferences are open to students on a space-available basis, usually with a tuition waiver. Stetson s Center for Excellence in International Law houses the Institute for Biodiversity Law and Policy 12

15 Our priority is to provide students with outstanding educational experiences to better prepare them for the challenges of the practice of law. Professor Rebecca C. Morgan Boston Asset Management Chair in Elder Law and Director, Center for Excellence in Elder Law Co-author, Ethics in an Elder Law Practice, Planning for Disability, and Fundamentals of Special Needs Trusts B.S.B.A., Central Missouri State University; J.D., Stetson University and the Institute for Caribbean Law and Policy. By establishing partnerships with international organizations, students can benefit through unique internship and research opportunities. Legal Research and Writing Program Stetson s Legal Research and Writing Program is ranked third in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Taught by full-time professors, Stetson s research and writing courses prepare students for career-long success in legal communication and advocacy. Many Stetson students have won writing awards at state and national levels, including four Burton Award winners in the past decade. National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law Funded by the National Institute of Justice, the National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law is a central resource for attorneys, judges, scientists and law enforcement to understand the latest developments in scientific evidence and technology and their use in the courtroom. Students can contribute to clearinghouse research or attend its conferences and specialized classes. LL.M. in International Law The LL.M. in international law prepares graduates to enter the legal marketplace with thorough preparation in the skills and knowledge necessary to practice international law in the United States and abroad. The program admits a limited number of law school graduates for an intensive twosemester, 24-credit course of study with options to concentrate in private or public law. Applicants must have received their first law degree at an ABAaccredited law school or at a law school approved by an appropriate authority in a country other than the United States. Florida and most other states require a J.D. degree from an accredited U.S. law school before an individual may sit for the bar examination. Online LL.M. in Elder Law Stetson s LL.M. degree in elder law is a threesemester, 24-credit program that allows students to study online at flexible times and locations. The program covers issues ranging from estate and longterm care planning for the elderly to disability law and guardianships. Applicants for the LL.M. program must have received their first law degree at an ABAaccredited law school or at a law school approved by the appropriate authority in a country other than the United States. 13

16 Teaching is the number one priority for Stetson faculty. We believe in an open-door culture and welcome students to our offices. Professor Ellen S. Podgor LeRoy Highbaugh Sr. Research Chair and Editor of White Collar Crime Prof Blog Co-author, White Collar Crime in a Nutshell, Understanding International Criminal Law, and Criminal Law: Concepts and Practice B.S., Syracuse University; M.B.A., University of Chicago; J.D., Indiana University at Indianapolis; LL.M., Temple University 14

17 Countless opportunities for practical experience await in Stetson s clinic and internship programs. Clinics and internships place you in the heart of the action, working on actual cases while you are still in law school. Open to upper-level students, these practical courses will match you with an attorney or judicial mentor. This experience is invaluable when searching for your first position after graduation and making decisions that will lead to a rewarding legal career. Hundreds of students participate in Stetson s internship and clinic programs, including the new in-house Veterans Appellate Rights Clinic. Internships give students the opportunity to apply their legal research and writing skills at legal organizations including state and federal courts, governmental agencies and local corporations. Most clinic students become approved by the Florida Supreme Court as Certified Legal Interns permitted to practice law under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Clinics allow students to argue motions and advocate in civil or criminal proceedings, including jury trials. My legal training at Stetson has helped me tremendously in being prepared to make decisions today as a general manager in the NFL. Law school is a great tool; you should take it and use it. Richard J. McKay 84 President and General Manager, Atlanta Falcons; Past General Manager, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Atlanta, Georgia B.A., Princeton University; J.D., Stetson University Stetson internships and clinics include: American Caribbean Law Internship Bankruptcy Judicial Internship Civil Elder Law Clinic Civil Poverty Clinic Elder and Disability Law Internship Elder Consumer Protection Internship Environmental Law Internship Equal Employment Opportunity Law Internship Family Law Internship Federal Agency Externship Federal Judicial Internship Federal Litigation Internship Florida Circuit Court Internship Florida Department of State General Counsel Internship Florida District Court of Appeal Internship Homeless Advocacy Internship Immigration Law Clinic In-House Counsel Internship Intellectual Property Internship Labor Law Internship Local Government Clinic Municipal and Administrative Law Internship Private Practice Internship (pilot program) Summer Law and Policy Internship in Washington D.C. Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic State Litigation Internship State Judicial Internship State Supreme Court Internship (Florida and Georgia) U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims Internship Veterans Appellate Rights Clinic 15

18 A national powerhouse recognized for educating lawyers prepared for every stage of the legal process. I enjoyed the first-hand legal experiences that I gained while at Stetson. Stetson provides numerous opportunities for students interested in litigation or advocacy of any kind to hone those skills. Stetson has given us an edge that many students at other law schools will not have once they begin their legal careers. Patice Holland 07 Associate, Woods Rogers PLC Edward D. Foreman Most Distinguished Student Award Roanoke, Virginia B.A., George Mason University; J.D., Stetson University As the nation s top-ranked law school for advocacy education, Stetson offers you an unparalleled opportunity to develop and test your legal abilities from the first client contact through the final appeal. Beyond the typical courses in trial procedure found at most law schools, at Stetson you ll discover a comprehensive range of advocacy electives, clinical programs, intramural tournaments, interscholastic competition teams and a certificate of concentration. Effective advocacy is one of a successful lawyer s most important skills regardless of practice area and Stetson s commitment to teaching advocacy is unmatched. Our lawyers and student-advocates excel in the classroom, in the courtroom, and in champion performances on our nationally and internationally lauded advocacy teams. Our professors have authored several leading books in advocacy, and our campuses feature seven courtrooms for experiential learning. Stetson annually hosts two interscholastic competitions, the International Environmental Moot Court Competition and the National Pretrial Advocacy Competition. Advocacy teams at Stetson The TRIAL TEAM participates in mock trial competitions before a judge. Teams give opening and closing statements, question witnesses, argue motions, make and respond to objections, and introduce evidence. The MOOT COURT BOARD argues appellate cases. Students must submit a written brief and orally argue their positions to panels of judges. The ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION BOARD focuses on legal skills outside the traditional courtroom: client counseling, negotiation, arbitration and mediation. 16

19 At Stetson, we are committed to the concept of the complete advocate one who commands a superior understanding of the law, the ability to persuasively present evidence, and the humanity to know when and how to do the right thing. We empower students to find within themselves their unique voice becoming the best possible advocate they can be. Professor Charles H. Rose III Professor of Excellence in Trial Advocacy Author, Fundamental Trial Advocacy and co-author, Fundamental Pretrial Advocacy B.A., Indiana University at South Bend; J.D., University of Notre Dame; LL.M., The Judge Advocate General s Legal Center and School, U.S. Army Selected awards Alternative Dispute Resolution Board National Environmental Negotiation Competition: Two-time champion and three-time runner-up ABA Representation in Mediation Competition: Three-time regional champion ABA-LSD Arbitration Competition: Past national champion, 2009 regional dual-champions and two-time runner-up Trial Team ABA National Trial Competition: 2010 champion and first law school to win five times National Civil Trial Competition: 2009 champion AAJ National Student Trial Advocacy Competition: 2009 champion and first school to win both first and second place in one year NACDL Trial Competition: Four-time champion NITA Tournament of Champions: Five-time champion ABA Criminal Justice Trial Advocacy Competition: Only law school to win six times Chester Bedell Memorial Mock Trial Competition: 18-time champion in 26 years FJA Student Mock Trial Competition: More wins than all other Florida law schools combined, often finishing first and second Moot Court Board Robert Orseck Memorial Moot Court Competition : 2010 champion, best brief and best oralist John Marshall Law School International Moot Court Competition in Information Technology and Privacy: 2009 champion International Criminal Court Competition: 2008 world champion Vis International Arbitration Moot (West and East): Past world champion, two-time silver medalist, numerous awards Navy JAG Corps National Moot Court Competition: 2009 champion Veterans Law Appellate Advocacy Competition: 2009 champion Worker s Compensation Moot Court Competition: 2008, 2009 and 2010 champion National Tax Moot Court Competition: Three-time champion 26 brief awards in past five years 17

20 Legal education is a privilege and should be valued by service locally, nationally and internationally; this is one of Stetson s most important core values. Professor Dorothea A. Beane (pictured above, far right) and Co-Director, Institute for Caribbean Law and Policy B.A., Drew University; J.D., Rutgers-The State University of New Jersey 18 The Hague, Netherlands

21 Explore new horizons while earning class credit in one of Stetson s many study-abroad programs. In an increasingly global society, Stetson University College of Law enables you to discover new lands and foreign legal systems through several international study opportunities. Autumn in London: Spend a full semester taking classes and working in competitive internships in the heart of London. Stetson offers a full 13-week semester program taught by American and British faculty in the historic Bloomsbury district, located just blocks away from major legal and cultural landmarks. Summer-Abroad Programs: Learn about international law, meet highlevel officials, and tour legal and government institutions in one of Stetson s summer-abroad programs in Bueños Aires, Argentina; Tianjin, China; The Hague, Netherlands, with Lausanne/Geneva, Switzerland; or Granada, Spain. Classes meet each morning on Monday through Thursday, leaving afternoons and three-day weekends free to experience local culture and explore the region. Winter-Break Institute on Caribbean Law: Travel to George Town in the Cayman Islands in early January for a two-week program housed at Cayman Islands Law School. Spending time in The Hague getting to see how international law works was the pinnacle of my summer. We visited the special court for Sierra León, the international tribunal for Rwanda, and the International Peace Palace. Sarah Alexandra Cohen 10 St. Petersburg, Florida Former intern, Supreme Court of Uganda Alternative Dispute Resolution Board and Vis Arbitration Moot team member Walter Mann Award recipient B.A., George Washington University; J.D., Stetson University Spring-Break Travel: Participate in a week-long trip over Spring Break after completing an on-campus course. Destinations have included Ireland, Scotland and Switzerland. Foreign-Exchange Programs: Stetson has formal agreements with the University of Granada in Spain, Tec de Monterrey and University of Nuevo Leon in Mexico, and University of Toulouse in France for students to attend law school for up to one year at one of these institutions. Students also may pursue a dualdegree in Spain and the U.S. through the J.D./Grado program (see page 12). England Switzerland China Argentina Spain 19

22 On the first day of Orientation, a Stetson law student learns that his or her career as a lawyer has officially begun. The student is rid of the notion that a legal career starts after graduation and upon receipt of his or her degree. Sure enough, my legal career began at the start of law school. Vanita Vishnubhakat 10 New York, New York Associate, Sagat Burton LLP Dean s Award recipient and Stetson Ambassador B.A., Vassar College J.D., Stetson University Breathtaking architecture frames contemporary classrooms, courtrooms and legal research facilities. Few places in the world can compete with Stetson s main law campus as an idyllic environment for the study of law. Inside the walls of this former 1920s resort in Gulfport/St. Petersburg, you ll find classrooms and courtrooms equipped with sophisticated audio-visual technology. Stetson s award-winning law library attracts legal scholars from around the world with its comprehensive digital and print collections, not to mention its comfortable study areas. The Tampa Law Center, located at the entrance to downtown Tampa along the Hillsborough River, shares its Wm. Reece Smith Jr. Courtroom and satellite law library with Florida s Second District Court of Appeal. Stetson s courtrooms feature the latest design and technology, including electronic evidence displays, cameras, plasma screens, microphones and speakers for observing court participants and jury deliberations. The Eleazer Courtroom serves as a national model for access to the elderly, and the two jury rooms of the Wm. Reece Smith Jr. By the numbers: Facilities 2 campuses 21 acre Gulfport campus 6.8 acre Tampa Law Center 7 courtrooms 70 wireless access points 3,920 network connections 419,501 library volumes 50 library group study rooms as of Summer 2010 Courtroom provide a unique laboratory for comparing the influence of demographic factors on juries. High-speed wireless internet access is available throughout both campuses, and power/network connections are available at most classroom seats. 20

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24 Student organizations ABA Law Student Division American Association for Justice American Constitution Society Amnesty International Animal Legal Defense Fund Asian-American Law Student Association Aviation and Aerospace Law Society Bankruptcy Society Black Law Student Association Business Law Society Christian Legal Society Education Law Association Elder Law Society Entertainment and Sports Law Society Environmental Law Society Equal Justice Works Family Law Society Florida Association for Women Lawyers Federalist Society Freethinkers Rhetoric Society Health Care Law Association Hispanic Bar Association Immigration Law Student Association Innocence Education and Reform Project Intellectual Property Law Society International Law Society Jewish Law Student Association Lambda Legal Society Law and Order Leadership Development Committee Maritime Law Society National Organization for Defense Attorneys Part-Time Student Society Performing Arts Society Phi Alpha Delta Phi Delta Phi Public Service Fellows Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Association South Asian Law Student Association Stetson Ambassadors Stetson Democrats Stetson Republicans Student Bar Association Tax Law Society 22

25 Share your interests in professional, cultural and recreational activities, and develop your leadership potential. One hallmark of a great law school is an involved, vibrant student body. On any day, you ll find interesting speakers, community service projects, intramural sport competitions and other events coordinated by student organizations and their leaders. Stetson s Student Bar Association has been recognized as one of the most effective student government organizations in the nation by the American Bar Association Law Student Division, and Stetson has produced more national and regional ABA/LSD officers in the past five years including the national chair than any other law school in the country. During spring break, Stetson students may participate in a Washington, D.C., trip to meet national leaders or a pro-bono trip to serve an area in need. With about 45 registered student organizations, leadership opportunities abound on campus. You can earn a leadership certificate upon graduation by attending 10 hours of workshops through a program that won the ABA s prestigious E. Smythe Gambrell Professionalism Award. A monthly cultural event series allows you to attend concerts, plays and other community activities, and our active intramural program includes team sports, competitions and exercise classes. A spacious fitness center and temperaturecontrolled pool are located on the Gulfport campus, which also is a short distance from several public beaches, bike trails and community dog parks. Every experience at Stetson, whether in class or in an organizational meeting, or even interacting with others at the coffee shop, has been preparing me for life after law school. In addition to providing the essential doctrinal classes for the practice of law, the other activities held at Stetson also provide a practical application of real life. Stetson truly provides guidance for everything, from how to obtain a job to how to win your first case. Stephanie Kwan 09 Miami, Florida Judicial clerk, Florida s Third District Court of Appeal Vis Arbitration Moot team member Past intern, Pinellas County Attorney s Office, Third District Court of Appeal, and Sixth Judicial Circuit of Florida B.B.A., M.B.A., J.D., Stetson University 23

26 Helpful career guidance will help you find your first internship, clerkship, associate position and beyond. One often hears lawyers state that their law schools did not prepare them well for the practice of law. That was not my experience at Stetson. My professors at Stetson provided me with many of the necessary skills that have proven invaluable to me in the dayto-day practice of law. David Orta 94 Washington, D.C. Partner, Arnold & Porter B.A., Tulane University; J.D., Stetson University To help you in your legal job search, Stetson offers a complete program of networking events, educational workshops and individual counseling sessions. You ll receive personal attention through all facets of your legal career planning, including résumé review sessions, mock interviews with alumni, and cover letter advice. A 24-hour, on-campus resource center offers computers, a reference library and office equipment. As a liaison between students and employers, Stetson brings legal organizations to campus to interview second- and third-year students. Hundreds of employment opportunities for associate positions and clerkships are posted throughout the year, and Stetson s participation in job fairs across the country provides an additional venue for your job search. Regional alumni events also provide opportunities for you to network with some of the more than 9,000 Stetson law graduates nationwide. Beyond the legal arena, our graduates have achieved success in business, sport management, broadcasting and other fields. Many have earned advanced degrees from Columbia, Florida, George Washington, Georgetown, NYU and other universities. By the numbers: Employment 1,100 job postings 2,000 student job interviews on-campus annually 93% 2009 graduates employed within nine months 56% private practice 15% government 8% public interest 13% business 6% judicial clerkships 2% academia/ll.m. $75,000 average 09 graduate salary (private sector) $43,000 average 09 graduate salary (public sector) data 24