LAW 0704:
Family Law Litigation Clinic: Temple Legal Aid Office
Spring 2022 • Section S21
Course Description
The Family Law Litigation clinical in the Temple Legal Aid Office provides direct legal representation to low-income litigants in child custody, child and spousal support, paternity and adoption cases. Student attorneys have the opportunity to handle all aspects of client's cases, including intake interviews, case selection based on merit, development of a case plan, drafting of pleadings, counseling of clients, negotiation with opposing counsel or parties, development of trial strategy, trial preparation and court appearances. Under the supervision of the Clinical Professor, and with collective input from their classmates, students are expected to take ownership of their cases and direct case strategy and outcomes.Students must simultaneously enroll in the linked two-credit hour letter-graded Temple Legal Aid Office: Family Law Litigation seminar (Law 5036) for a total of four credit hours (refer to seminar description and time requirements). Students will be evaluated based on criteria such as: case and/or project handling responsibility; oral and written advocacy; professional and ethical obligations; initiative and critical reflection; relationship with supervisor; and relationship with teammates and collaborators. The evaluation process will be explained at the beginning of the course and a midpoint evaluation will provide students with substantial feedback on their progress. Note: Certification under Rules 321 and 322 of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is required. Students automatically will be enrolled in the two-credit hour letter-graded Temple Legal Aid Office: Family Law Litigation seminar (Law 5036) for a total of four credit hours.
Schedule
Schedule To Be Announced
Additional Time Requirements
The seminar meets weekly on Wednesdays from 9:50 to 1150 am. Students should note that this class will also require students to watch three additional video classes during the first three weeks of the semester. The purpose of these additional video classes is for students to learn important substantive law and procedure before engaging in the practice of family law. A minimum of 8-10 hours per week that may be scheduled Monday-Thursday 9 am-5 pm. Additional hours as required for trial preparation and hearings.
Registration Info
Pre-Requisites
You must have completed the following courses before enrolling in this course:
- LAW 0460 (Trial Advocacy I ) or LAW 0558 (Introduction to Trial Advocacy)
- LAW 0540 (Evidence) (C or better)
Co-Requisites
You must take this course in conjunction with the following courses:
- LAW 5036 (Family Law Litigation Seminar)
Book List/Materials
No book purchases are required or recommended for this course.