Tulane Law School - In the Public Interest

In the Public Interest

Public Interest Law Brochure
Click here to download the PDF.

Pro Bono Requirement

Tulane was the first law school to require pro bono work of all its students. Since 1987 law students have been required to engage in pro bono service. Each student must complete a minimum of 30 hours of legal service on behalf of indigent persons or with non-profit, public interest organizations that serve the community. This may occur in the New Orleans metropolitan area, or, if more convenient, in the student’s home community, here or abroad. The following are some recent comments by students actively pursuing their pro bono requirement:

I gained an appreciation for the hard work public defenders do, and for the overburdened juvenile justice system. I also gained experience in dealing with clients - from law student working with local public defender's office.
I enjoyed making a difference in the client’s life. With the pressure of having someone’s personal affairs in your hands, you have all the more motivation to perform and do your best. I learned plenty about family law - from law student placed with a legal services program.
My research skills dramatically improved. Also how to ask the right questions – what questions really address the problem. The work made me very aware of the issues in this area of law - from law student working with advocacy center for those with disabilities.
Amazingly practical experience for me, drafting documents and gaining familiarity with the legal process. I wish I had spent more hours because it’s good, clinical experience - from law student placed with local organization which assists indigent clients in a wide range of civil matters.

See the TLS Public Interest brochure for additional information.

Annual Placement Fair

Each fall the Pro Bono Program holds an open-house Placement Fair for 2Ls and 3Ls. Attending the annual fair are attorneys and directors of a variety of local organizations which provide legal assistance to those who cannot otherwise afford it. Students meet the people in charge and have the chance to ask questions about the needs and activities of these agencies. This is the ideal opportunity to see what best fits the student’s schedule and to sign up for a placement designed to satisfy the 30-hour minimum pro bono requirement.

Information for Attorneys and Organizations Seeking Law Student Assistance