Juris Doctor Program
Florida’s First Law School
Tampa Bay
Establishing the standard for practical legal education since 1900. Now more than ever, the legal profession demands that law school graduates are prepared to not only think like lawyers, but to be ready to practice law. At Stetson, you learn both. Our professors teach interactive courses that carefully balance legal theory, policy and world-class skills training. Through experiences inside and outside the traditional classroom, you will learn to connect facts with doctrine, develop creative solutions, and understand 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 a solid foundation, you will also have an opportunity to customize the balance of your legal education. You may choose to focus your elective courses on a particular field, pursue dual degrees, 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:
Where law meets practice: Ranked #1 in trial advocacy Ranked #5 in legal writing A clinic or internship available for every student
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A nationally ranked program of skills training.
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Incredible opportunities for professional experience through clinics, internships and advocacy competitions.
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A commitment to professionalism and public service — which also integrates students into the legal system at an early stage in their career.
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Strong career development and bar preparation resources.
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A talented, accessible faculty who care about your success and are available outside the classroom.
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A rich and diversified intellectual life that includes regular opportunities to interact with distinguished scholars, practitioners, government officials and judges. 1
Whoever said law students are cutthroat has never visited Stetson. For anyone who wishes to spend part of their professional career in court, Stetson is the undeniable choice. I chose Stetson because its advocacy program is unparalleled. From the moment you set foot at Stetson, you begin to learn what it means to be an effective, persuasive and professional trial attorney.
Diego F. Novaes ’13 Assistant State Attorney, Sixth Judicial Circuit Past Member of Trial Team; Prosecution Clinic; and U.S. Attorney’s Office Legal Clerk B.A., Florida International University; J.D., Stetson University
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. Classmates support each other, working together to achieve the shared goal of becoming lawyers. Involved and committed professors offer a level of access rarely found at larger institutions. A friendly administrative staff also provides personalized attention. By the numbers: Faculty are involved in every aspect of campus life and are passionate about working with students both inside and outside the classroom. Professors from throughout the law school spend time serving as mentors, advising student organizations, and coaching advocacy teams. 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.
Students
710 full-time JDs 269 part-time JDs 56 LLMs 269 2013 entering JDs: 54 percent female 20 percent minority 84 colleges/universities 24 states, plus U.S.V.I. 3 countries as of Aug. 24, 2013
Stetson’s student body reflects diverse academic, professional and ethnic backgrounds.
Professor Judith A.M. Scully teaches criminal law and directs the Innocence Initiative Clinic at Stetson. She previously served as an administrative law judge and arbitrator in Illinois, and her work on reproductive rights has been presented at international conferences in India, Brazil and China. As a member of the National Conference of Black Lawyers, she worked with the African National Congress to help draft the constitution for a Free and Democratic South Africa in 1990.
Professor Stephanie Vaughan is associate director of Stetson’s Center for Excellence in Advocacy. She also coaches Stetson’s award-winning Vis International Arbitration Team and teaches Legal Research and Writing. 2
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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 the profession and improve society. The Stetson Law
Mission
Distinguished Lecturers and Guests U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, Rt. Hon. Beverley McLachlin (Chief Justice of Canada), Jamaican Senator A.J. Nicholson and Kenneth Feinberg have served as distinguished lecturers at Stetson.
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.
You will be regarded as a member of the legal profession beginning on your first day of law school. Stetson provides an environment that encourages and rewards the highest standards of professionalism. Every student has the opportunity to participate in a series of dynamic programs and presentations that foster discussion on current issues facing members of the legal profession.
During the 2012–13 academic year, Stetson law students donated more than 33,000 hours of pro bono service to more than 400 organizations. Stetson’s commitment to community service includes a 60-hour pro bono requirement for all students to enhance their law school experience.
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 B.S., Florida Atlantic University; J.D., Stetson University
Last year, Stetson law students provided more than 11,000 hours of non-legal community service and more than 22,000 hours of legal pro bono service to local organizations.
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Everyone is so welcoming and wants to help you succeed. From the professors and staff to fellow classmates, people often go above and beyond to help.
Alesha Smith ’13
Assistant Public Defender, Ninth Circuit Past Public Defender Clinic member and Innocence Initiative pro bono caseworker B.A., University of Central Florida; J.D., Stetson University
A dedicated, accessible faculty is committed to the academic and professional success of every student. Stetson’s greatest resource is its faculty, 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 full-time faculty is supplemented by outstanding practicing attorneys and judges who serve as adjunct professors in specialized areas.
By the numbers:
Faculty
50 full-time regular faculty 4 visiting full-time faculty 8 full-time professional librarians
2013 data
Each year, speakers and visitors from around the world make presentations on campus, providing new perspectives for a balanced, comprehensive educational experience. Recent academic speakers have included law professors from Yale, UCLA, King’s College London and Duke.
“ 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.” Dr. Tim Kaye coordinates the Stetson Journal for Advocacy and the Law. Before joining Stetson, he held teaching, administrative and consulting positions in England, Lithuania and Estonia. In 2011, he co-authored Law, Justice, and Miscommunications: Essays in Applied Legal Philosophy with six of his Jurisprudence Seminar students. 6
Professor Luz Estella Nagle
Professor of Law; Council Member, International Bar Association Legal Practice Division; and Former Colombian Judge LL.D., Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana; M.A., LL.M., University of California at Los Angeles; J.D., College of William and Mary 7
A wide-ranging and innovative curriculum that includes practical training and diverse electives.
Full-Time J.D. Required Curriculum as of October 2013 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
The J.D. curriculum combines foundational courses in contracts, torts, property, constitutional law, civil procedure, criminal law, professional responsibility, evidence, and legal research and writing, with area requirements and electives for a comprehensive educational experience.
SECOND SEMESTER (Spring)
J.D. students complete 88 credit hours and perform 60 hours of pro bono service to graduate. Full-time students spend the first year of their legal education completing most of the required curriculum. As second and third year students, you can tailor your legal education with a wide-range of electives. Credits also may be earned through international programs, co-curricular activities, clinics and internships.
Constitutional Law I Real Property Torts Research and Writing II
Third semester (Fall) Professional Responsibility
Stetson Law’s Academic Success Program is committed to assisting students in developing their academic skills. Our director is also a full-time faculty member dedicated to helping you adapt quickly to the academic demands of law school. Workshops and specialized guidance help advance your critical thinking skills.
Total credit hours required: 88 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.
“ As a coach for Stetson’s Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot team, I have been able to mentor extraordinarily motivated and talented students, and help them develop as professionals in every way. Stetson’s performance in this global theater has earned us the respect of elite universities from the United States and around the world.”
Professor Joseph F. Morrissey
Co-author, International Sales Law & Arbitration: Problems, Cases and Commentary Professor of Law; B.A., Princeton University; J.D., Columbia University
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By the numbers:
Bar Exam
89.3% Stetson’s pass rate, July 2013 (#1 in Florida) 77.2% Statewide average, July 2013
93.9% Stetson’s pass rate, Stetson’s Office of Bar Preparation February 2013 Services is designed to assist (#2 in Florida) students with every aspect of bar 80.2% Statewide average, admission. Full-time staff attorneys February 2013 provide individual counseling and For first-time exam takers in Florida group guidance on bar preparation. Students benefit from a personalized study plan and having their sample answers reviewed by bar preparation staff. Stetson alumni also provide emotional, tactical and coaching support to graduates taking the bar exam. Stetson’s barpassage rate among first-time takers has historically ranked well above the state average in Florida. Our graduates also have been successful in passing the bar examination in other states.
Part-Time J.D. Required Curriculum as of October 2013 All part-time students are required to take classes at both the Gulfport campus and the Tampa Law Center.
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: 8-10 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 and other 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.
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Area requirements
Discover the law through one of the nation’s largest offerings of elective courses. (Source: PreLaw Insider, Spring 2013) The knowledge and tools I gained while pursuing my J.D./ M.B.A. prepared me for a successful and rewarding career in nonprofit management and business law. The dedicated faculty provided quality instruction and many hands-on experiences.
Jodie R. Snow ’06
Chief Operating Officer, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Foundation Tifton, Georgia B.B.A., University of Georgia M.B.A., J.D., Stetson University
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Advocacy and Skills
Advanced Civil Trial Skills: Damages Advanced Civil Trial Skills: Voir Dire Advanced Criminal Evidence Seminar Advanced Criminal Trial Advocacy Advanced Legal Research Advanced Legal Research, International Law Advanced Legal Writing: Contract Drafting Advanced Legal Writing: Successful Writing for Law Practice Advanced Legal Writing: Transactional Document Drafting Alternate Dispute Resolution Board Appellate Practice Arbitration Child Advocacy Clinic Circuit Civil Mediation Skills Training Civil Elder Law Clinic Civil Legal Services Clinic Communication and Leadership Skills Conflict of Laws Criminal Procedure Depositions Depositions: Deposing Medical Experts Elder Law Practice Management Electronic Discovery Environmental Advocacy Employee Benefits Litigation Skills Expert Witnesses Family Law Litigation Federal Civil Pre-Trial Practice and Strategy Federal Courts and the Federal System Federal Litigation Internship Federal Public Defender Clinic Financial Advocacy Florida Civil Procedure Florida Criminal Procedure Immigration Litigation and Advocacy Innocence Initiative Clinic International Litigation and Arbitration Interviewing and Counseling Interviewing and Counseling in Spanish Introduction to the Physical Examination Judicial Internships Labor Law Internship Law Practice Management Local Government Clinic Local Government Law Mediation Skills Training Military Justice Internship Moot Court Board Multistate Strategies Negotiation and Mediation Polishing for Professionals Workshop Pre-Trial Practice Private Practice Internship Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Scientific Evidence Workshop State Litigation Internship Stetson Law Review Technology in Litigation Trial Advocacy Trial Team Veterans Advocacy Clinic White Collar Advocacy
Business/Corporate Law
Accounting and Law Advanced Corporate Law Seminar Agency and Unincorporated Organizations Antitrust Law Bankruptcy Bankruptcy Seminar Bankruptcy Judicial Internship Business Entities Business Ethics Commercial Transactions Commercial Transactions Seminar Construction Law Copyright Law Corporate Governance in a Global Market Corporations Delaware Influence on Corporate Law Employee Benefits Litigation Skills Entertainment Law Federal Taxation I Federal Taxation II Federal Tax Practice and Procedure Financial Advocacy Florida Tort Law In-House Counsel Internship Insurance International Banking and Finance Law International Business Transactions International Intellectual Property International Sales Law and Arbitration Law and Economics Law Practice Management Nonprofits Seminar Organization of Business Enterprise Partnership Taxation Patent Law Products Liability Real Property Finance Sales, Leases and Licenses Secured Transactions Securities Regulation Sports Law Trademarks and Unfair Competition White Collar Advocacy White Collar Crime (See also: Labor and Employment Law)
Civil Law (General)
Administrative Law Advanced Legal Writing: Contract Drafting Advanced Legal Writing: Successful Writing for Law Practice Advanced Legal Writing: Transactional Document Drafting Advanced Tort Law Seminar Children and the Law Circuit Civil Mediation Skills Training Conflict of Laws Cyberlaw Seminar Elder Law Seminar Electronic Discovery 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 Florida Torts Insurance Labor Law Law and Economics Law and Higher Education Policy Media Law Media Law Seminar Pre-Trial Practice Products Liability Real Property Finance Remedies Sales, Leases and Licenses Survey of Florida Law Tort Law Practice and Skills Trial Advocacy Trusts and Estates
Criminal Law
Advanced Criminal Evidence Seminar Advanced Criminal Trial Advocacy Correctional Law Seminar Criminal Adjudication Criminal Procedure Criminal Responsibility Seminar Death Penalty Seminar Ethics and the Practice of Criminal Law Federal Public Defender Clinic Florida Criminal Procedure Innocence Initiative Clinic International Criminal Law Juvenile Criminal Law and Practice Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Scientific Evidence Workshop White Collar Advocacy White Collar Crime
Elder Law
Administrative Law Arbitration Civil Elder Law Clinic Disability Law Elder and Disability Law Internship Elder Law Drafting Elder Law Litigation Elder Law Practice Management Elder Law Seminar Estate Planning Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts Health Insurance Insurance Interviewing and Counseling Introduction to Aging and the Law Journal of International Aging Law and Policy Negotiation and Mediation Survey of Florida Probate Trusts and Estates
Environmental Law
Administrative Law Animal Law Seminar Climate Change and Energy Policy
Environmental Advocacy Environmental Hazards Associated with Real Property Environmental Law Environmental Law Internship Florida Administrative Law International Animal Law Seminar International Environmental Law Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy Land Use Law Natural Resources Law Seminar Ocean and Coastal Law and Policy Water Law Wetlands Seminar
Family Law
Adoption Law Seminar Child Advocacy Clinic Children and the Law Domestic Violence and the Law Seminar Family Law Family Law Internship Family Law Litigation Family Law Mediation Judicial Internship Juvenile Law Seminar Reproductive Technology and the Law Seminar Unified Family Court Seminar
Health Law
Administrative Law Advanced Tort Law Seminar Arbitration Depositions: Deposing Medical Experts Disability Law Elder Law Seminar Florida Tort Law Health Insurance Health Law Insurance Interviewing and Counseling Introduction to the Physical Exam Medical Jurisprudence Negotiation and Mediation Reproductive Technology and the Law Seminar
Intellectual Property Law Copyright Law Cyberlaw Seminar Entertainment Law Intellectual Property Intellectual Property Internship International Intellectual Property Patent Law Trademarks and Unfair Competition
International Law
Admiralty Advanced International Law Seminar Caribbean Law Internship Chinese Legal Systems Seminar Human Trafficking: National, International and Immigration Issues Immigration Law Immigration Litigation and Advocacy International Animal Law Seminar International Banking and Finance Law International Business Transactions International Environmental Law International Law of Human Rights Seminar International Intellectual Property
International Law International Litigation and Arbitration International Sales Law and Arbitration International Taxation Journal of International Aging Law and Policy Journal of International Wildlife Law and Policy
Jurisprudence, History and Comparative Law
American Legal History Constitutional Law and the Civil Rights Movement Feminist Jurisprudence Seminar Honors Colloquium Jurisprudence Jurisprudence Honors Seminar Jurisprudence Seminar Law and Economics Law and Religion Law, History and Philosophy Seminar Law, Literature and Film Seminar Legal Discourse and Rhetorical Theory Seminar Race and the Law Seminar Sexual Orientation Seminar
Labor and Employment Law
Constitutional Law and the Civil Rights Movement Employee Benefits Employment Discrimination Equal Employment Opportunity Internship Employee Benefits Litigation Skills Employment Law Labor Law Labor Law Internship Sexual Orientation Seminar Worker Safety Law and Policy Workers’ Compensation
Property Law and Probate
Construction Law 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 Patent Law Real Property Finance Real Property Litigation Real Property Seminar Survey of Florida Probate Trademarks and Unfair Competition Trusts and Estates
Public Interest Law
Animal Law Seminar Children and the Law Civil Elder Law Clinic Civil Legal Services Clinic Constitutional Law and the Civil Rights Movement Disability Law Elder and Disability Law Internship Elder Law Seminar Election Law Seminar Family Law Family Law Internship
Federal Courts and the Federal System Federal Defender Clinic Homeless Advocacy Internship Human Trafficking: National, International and Immigration Issues Individual Externship Program International Law of Human Rights Seminar Labor Law Internship Land Use Law Local Government Clinic Local Government Law Low Income Taxpayers Clinic Poverty Law Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Remedies Veterans Rights Clinic (See also: Public Law)
Public Law
Administrative Law Antitrust Law Conflict of Laws Constitutional Law II Constitutional Litigation Environmental Law Florida Administrative Law Florida Constitutional Law Florida Department of State General Counsel Internship Immigration Clinic Immigration Law Immigration Litigation and Advocacy International Intellectual Property International Law Law and Economics Legislation Military Justice Internship Military Law Municipal and Administrative Law Internship Natural Resources Seminar
Tax Law
Accounting and Law Business Entities Employee Benefits Employee Benefits Litigation Skills Estate Planning Federal Taxation I Federal Taxation II Federal Taxation of Estates, Trusts and Gifts Federal Tax Practice and Procedure International Taxation Low Income Taxpayers Clinic State and Local Taxation See complete list of clinics and internships on page 14. These courses have been (or will be) offered within the 2011-2014 academic years. Not all of these courses may be offered in the future.
(One course required from each category as of October 2013, subject to change.)
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 Journal of International Aging Law and Policy with research paper Seminar course with research paper A faculty-supervised individual research project with research paper
Skills
Appellate Practice Arbitration Child Advocacy Clinic Circuit Civil Mediation Skills Training Civil Legal Services Clinic Elder Law Clinic Family Law Mediation Federal Civil Pre-Trial Practice and Strategy Federal Defender Clinic Human Trafficking: National, International and Immigration Issues Immigration Law Clinic Immigration Litigation and Advocacy Innocence Initiative Clinic International Sales Law and Arbitration in Spanish Interviewing and Counseling Interviewing and Counseling in Spanish Local Government Clinic Mediation Skills Training Negotiation and Mediation Post-Trial and Appellate Practice Pre-Trial Practice Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Supreme Court Advocacy and Process Tampa Prosecution Clinic Tort Law Practice and Skills Trial Advocacy Veterans Advocacy Clinic White Collar Advocacy
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The academic culture and its unique location make Stetson an ideal place to pursue the study of law. The professors take a strong interest in the development and success of each individual student, and there is a great camaraderie within the student body. The law school experience at Stetson is a very positive one.
Andrew Bennett ’13
Past legal intern, U.S. House of Representatives and past judicial intern, U.S. District Court B.A., Hofstra University; 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, environmental law, international law or social justice. 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 to broaden career opportunities in law and business. Students must be admitted to both programs. Full-time students typically complete both degrees within three years, including at least one summer. Part-time students also are eligible for this program. J.D./Grado en Derecho
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, read and write fluent Spanish to be considered for admission to this program, and must be willing and able to live in Spain for two consecutive years. J.D./M.I.E.L.
Select students who are permitted to spend a full academic year in the foreign 12
exchange program at the University of Toulouse, France, will earn a Master of International Economic Law from the University of Toulouse upon successful completion of a year of academic work. Intellectual Property Exchange
After the first year, a few selected students interested in specializing in intellectual property law may participate in a semester exchange program with the University of New Hampshire School of Law’s Franklin Pierce Center for Intellectual Property. This program offers one of the broadest intellectual property 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 may be invited to other special events on campus. Constitutional Law and the Civil Rights Movement Travel Course
Each summer, Stetson offers an experience-based course on Constitutional Law and The Civil Rights Movement. This course takes students to six cities to visit museums, institutes, universities and historic sites identified with the legal history of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. The academic itinerary includes personal interaction with Civil Rights Movement veterans and modern civil rights practitioners.
“ 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; Director, Center for Excellence in Elder Law and LL.M. in Elder Law; Co-author, Tax, Estate & Financial Planning for the Elderly, Planning for Disability, and Fundamentals of Special Needs Trusts B.S.B.A., Central Missouri State University; J.D., Stetson University
Academic Centers and Institutes
Stetson’s Centers for Excellence in advocacy, elder law, higher education law and policy, and international law sponsor conferences, workshops, scholarship and research projects within their areas. 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 and the Institute for Caribbean Law and Policy. Stetson’s Veterans Law Institute offers legal support for veterans and active military. Stetson’s newest program is the Institute for the Advancement of Legal Communication, which serves as a nexus of research, teaching and service to improve the quality of legal communication, particularly legal writing, in the profession. Legal Research and Writing
Stetson was ranked fifth in legal writing for 2014 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. LL.M. in International Law
The LL.M. in International Law is an intensive two-semester, 24-credit program located at the Gulfport campus. The program prepares graduates to enter the legal marketplace with thorough preparation in the skills and knowledge necessary to practice international law. Online LL.M. in Advocacy
The 25-credit LL.M. in Advocacy builds upon Stetson’s national reputation as the leader in advocacy education. Students master methods of persuasion from theoretical and practical perspectives, and they may focus on advanced criminal litigation skills, civil litigation skills and advocacy teaching techniques.
Applicants for Stetson’s LL.M. programs must have received their first law degree at a law school accredited by the ABA or approved by the appropriate authority in its country. 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. in Elder Law is a threesemester, 25-credit program that covers issues ranging from estate and long-term care planning for the elderly to disability law and guardianships. 13
With more than 450 opportunities available each year, every Stetson student can do a clinic or internship.
Stetson’s clinical programs are unique. Full-time law faculty are closely involved as they supervise and mentor the students enrolled in each program. Programs are designed to enhance classroom-based learning and give students opportunities to gain valuable, real-world experience. These experiences allow students to observe and participate in the application of substantive law, and find solutions to problems that confront attorneys on a daily basis.
While at Stetson, I have enjoyed the opportunity to gain practical, real life, legal experience. As a judicial intern, I was able to view the justice system from the perspective of a judge and gain an insider’s view on how judges make decisions.
Internship programs place students in off-campus, legal environments where they
Jonathan Hart
Stetson Law offers 37 clinic and internship programs at more than 60 hosting organizations each year. Hosting organizations include state and federal courts,
government agencies, corporations, law firms and legal aid organizations.
observe and participate in the activities of host organizations. Internship placements vary widely and include state and federal courts, governmental agencies and local corporations. Consequently, students enjoy the unique opportunity to observe how these entities operate from behind the scenes. Students routinely perform functions such as reviewing documents, conducting research, and writing memoranda of law.
Clinics and Externships Child Advocacy Clinic Civil Elder Law Clinic Civil Legal Services Clinic Federal Public Defender Clinic Individual Externship Immigration Law Clinic Innocence Initiative Clinic (in-house) Local Government Clinic Low Income Taxpayers Clinic Prosecution Clinic Public Defender Clinic Supreme Court Advocacy Clinic (in-house) Tampa Prosecution Clinic Veterans Advocacy Clinic (in-house)
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Internships Bankruptcy Judicial Internship Elder and Disability Law Internship Elder Consumer Protection Internship Environmental Law Internship Equal Employment Opportunity Law Internship Family Law Internship Federal Judicial Internship Federal Litigation Internship In-House Counsel Internship Florida Circuit Court (Appellate) Internship Florida Circuit Court (Trial) Internship Florida Department of State General Counsel Internship
Florida District Court of Appeal Internship Homeless Advocacy Internship Intellectual Property Internship Labor Law Internship Military Justice Internship Municipal and Administrative Law Internship Private Practice Internship State Litigation Internship State Supreme Court Internship Summer Law and Policy Internship in Washington, D.C. U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims Internship
Most clinic programs also place students in off-campus, legal environments where they are authorized to practice law under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Placements include legal aid organizations, local governments, public defender offices and state attorney offices. Students routinely conduct research, interview clients and witnesses, write motions or memoranda of law, and advocate during hearings and trials. Most clinic participants are approved by the Florida Supreme Court as Certified Legal Interns (CLIs), authorized to practice law under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Consequently, CLIs may speak in open court. Speaking in open court often includes arguing motions and advocating during criminal proceedings, including jury trials.
Candidate for Juris Doctor, 2014 Judicial intern, U.S. Bankruptcy Court; past intern for the U.S. District Court and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, past law clerk, U.S. Trustee’s Office and Florida Attorney General’s Office, Economic Crimes Division B.S., Florida State University
Stetson also has three in-house programs, the Veterans Advocacy Clinic, Innocence Initiative Clinic and the Supreme Court Advocacy Clinic. Veterans Clinic students help veterans navigate the disability benefits application and appeals process. The Innocence Initiative Clinic allows students to investigate the cases of individuals who assert that they have been wrongfully convicted. In Stetson’s newest clinic, students help prepare U.S. Supreme Court amici briefs for organizations such as the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. These “friend-of-the-court” briefs support petitions for certiorari and cases on the merits in criminal defense matters.
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A national powerhouse recognized for educating lawyers prepared for every stage of the legal process. Being on Stetson’s Vis team introduced me to international arbitration and to the right people. Someone I met at the competition and stayed in touch with led me to my current job.
Alex Zesch ’13
Associate, Shearman & Sterling, Frankfurt, Germany B.A., University of South Florida; 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 on 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 Competition.
Recent championships Moot Court Board • Nationally ranked #3 for 2012 and #4 for 2013 by the Blakely Advocacy Institute • National Professional Responsibility Moot Court Competition: 2012 and 2013 champions • E. Earle Zehmer Workers’ Compensation Moot Court Competition: 2013 champions • New York City Bar’s 63nd National Moot Court Competition: 2013 national champions • Philip C. Jessup International Moot Court Competition: 2012 regional champions and first place memorial • ABA Law Student Division National Appellate Advocacy Competition: 2012 regional cochampions and best oralist • National Veterans Law Moot Court Competition: 2009 and 2010 champions, threetime best oralist, 2009 and 2011 best brief • Robert Orseck Memorial Competition: 2010 and 2011 champions, best brief award and best final round oralist, 2012 best brief • Inaugural 11th Circuit Bankruptcy Competition (CKP Cup): 2012 champion, semifinalists and best oralist • Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot (East and West): Past world champion and two-time silver medalist
By the numbers:
Advocacy
Stetson’s winning record in mock trial, moot court and alternative dispute resolution competition over its 32-year history is unmatched: • 62 national championships • 4 world international titles • 60 regional championships • 41 state titles • 40 best brief awards • 99 best oralists/ advocates
“ 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; Director, Center for Excellence in Advocacy; author of Fundamental Trial Advocacy and co-author of 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 16
Trial Team • ABA National Trial Competition: 2010 champion and first law school to win five times • AAJ National Student Trial Advocacy Competition: 2009 champions and first school to win both first and second place in one year; 2010, 2011 and 2012 regional champions • National Civil Trial Competition: 2009 champion • 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: 20-time champion in 30 years • FJA Student Mock Trial Competition: More wins than all other Florida law schools combined, often finishing first and second Alternative Dispute Resolution Board • Liberty University National Negotiation Competition: 2011 champion • National Environmental Negotiation Competition: Two-time champion and threetime runner-up • ABA Representation in Mediation Competition: Three-time regional champion • ABA-LSD Arbitration Competition: Past national champion and five-time regional champion 17
Explore new horizons while earning class credit in one of Stetson’s many study abroad programs. In an increasingly global society, Stetson enables you to discover new lands and foreign legal systems through several international study opportunities. Semester in London: Spend a full semester taking classes and working in 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. U.K. Supreme Court
The Alhambra
Summer Abroad Programs: Learn about international law, meet high-level officials,
International Opportunities
Stetson Law enables you to discover new lands and foreign legal systems through international coursework. The Great Wall
and tour legal and government institutions in one of Stetson’s summer-abroad programs in Buenos Aires, Argentina; Tianjin, China; The Hague, Netherlands; 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. Cayman Islands Winter Break Program: Travel to George Town in the Cayman
Islands between the fall and spring semesters for a two-week program housed at Cayman Islands Law School. Foreign Exchange Programs: Stetson has formal agreements with the University of
I participated in the study-abroad program to The Hague and Freiburg. Attending the international courts was a huge learning experience, and the professors who taught these classes were absolutely top-notch.
Becky Farrar ’09
Co-Chair, International Human Rights Committee, ABA Section of International Law, and Legislative Coordinator, Amnesty International USA B.A., Queen’s University; J.D., Stetson University
Granada in Spain, Victoria University in Melbourne, Australia, and the 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 dual degrees in Spain and the U.S. through the J.D./Grado program or a master’s degree from the University of Toulouse (see page 12). Foreign Language Initiative: In an increasingly globalized legal environment, the ability to communicate in a foreign language is a great asset to practicing attorneys. In an effort to assist in the development of language skills, Stetson offers students access to an online language development program with unlimited access to interactive courses in more than 50 languages.
Netherlands
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China
Argentina
Spain
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At Stetson, I have had the privilege of being taught by professors who genuinely care about my growth as a student and as an individual. I have also had the opportunity to serve the Gulfport community through pro bono legal work.
Kayla Cash
Candidate for Juris Doctor, 2014 Federal Judicial Intern, Moot Court Board and Stetson Ambassador B.A., Franklin College
Don’t let the historic buildings fool you — technology is integrated everywhere. And our campus looks even better in person.
Stetson’s three-story Dolly and Homer Hand Law Library is a popular spot for law students looking for a quiet space to focus or private group-study rooms to collaborate with classmates. Six of Stetson’s eight full-time law librarians have both J.D. and Master of Library Science degrees, and three are members of the Florida Bar.
From high-tech courtrooms and classrooms to a Google-mapped floor plan of the law library, 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 audiovisual technology. Stetson’s highly acclaimed law library attracts legal scholars from around the world with its comprehensive digital and print collections, not to mention its comfortable study areas. Stetson’s 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 high-end technology, including electronic evidence displays, cameras, plasma screens, microphones and speakers for observing court participants and jury deliberations. Wireless internet access is available throughout both campuses, and power/network connections are available at most classroom seats.
By the numbers:
Facilities
2 law campuses 7 courtrooms 48 library group study rooms 21 acre Gulfport campus 6.8 acre Tampa Law Center 70 wireless access points 3,920 network connections 419,501 library volumes 24/7 card access to the Dolly and Homer Hand Law Library
Professor of Legal Skills Lance Long regularly presents at national legal writing conferences, and his recent article on the U.S Supreme Court was featured in the Washington Post. 20
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Student organizations • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 22
ABA Law Student Division American Association for Justice American Constitution Society Amnesty International – Stetson Chapter Arts Society at Stetson Law Asian-American Law Student Association Bankruptcy Society Black Law Students 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 Federalist Society Florida Association of Women Lawyers at Stetson Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division Law Student Division Freethinkers Rhetoric Society Health Care Law Association Hispanic Bar Association Immigration Law Student Association Innocence Initiative at Stetson Intellectual Property Law Society International Law Society Jewish Law Student Association J. Reuben Clark Society Labor and Employment Law Association Lambda Legal Society Leadership Development Committee Maritime Law Society National Association for Women Campus Action Network Part-Time Student Society Phi Alpha Delta Phi Delta Phi Public Service Fellows Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Association Stetson Ambassadors Stetson Law Democrats Stetson Law Parents Stetson Law Republicans Stetson Solo and Small Firm Society Student Animal Legal Defense Fund Student Bar Association Student Veterans Organization Tax Law Society
Share your interests in a vibrant campus culture and develop your leadership potential. One hallmark of a great law school is an involved, active student body. More than 450 law student events are planned each year, so on any given day, you’ll find interesting speakers, community service projects, wellness programs, competitions and other activities coordinated by student organizations. 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 many national and regional ABA/LSD officers in the past five years — including a past national chair. During spring break, Stetson students may participate in a Washington, D.C., trip to meet national leaders or a pro bono service trip to help an area in need. With 47 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.
I have been impressed with the number of organizations available on campus, and my involvement in several of them has been extremely rewarding. Stetson has everything I wanted in a law school because it gives us a quality education and provides us with the tools we need to pursue our dreams.
Erin Okuno ’13
Associate, Stearns Weaver B.S., Georgia Institute of Technology; J.D., Stetson University
Our active intramural program includes team sports, competitions and exercise classes. A spacious fitness center and temperature-controlled pool are located on the Gulfport campus, which is also a short distance from several public beaches, bike trails and community dog parks.
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Master the tools to build, grow and sustain a successful career. When finishing my initial JAG Corps training, I was selected to compete against three other classmates in a trial competition. Many classmates came from top law schools and had appreciable litigation experience. I won the competition, and it was nice to find out that my advocacy training at Stetson was the real deal.
Brendan Burke ’05 Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy; Command Judge Advocate, U.S.S. George H.W. Bush B.A., University of Missouri, Columbia; J.D., Stetson University
At Stetson, we know that your first job after law school is just that — the first step in a long, successful and rewarding career. Accordingly, we will provide the tools and toolkit to help you launch the career that is right for you. An accessible career development staff supports your career choices through individual coaching sessions, group meetings and programs. Also, many of the successful attorneys in Stetson’s 9,000-member alumni community stand ready to help new graduates get started. Stetson’s Career ToolKit workshop series provides a framework and essential information for career planning and job searching. The workshops focus on a wide range of subjects, including: • • • • • • • •
Strategic Planning for Your Life Planning and Organizing Your Job Search Job Search Documents and Publications Entrepreneurship Professional Etiquette Career Preparation During School Breaks Social Media Strategies Building Your Network
By the numbers:
Employment
Class of 2012, as of Feb. 15, 2013 341 total graduates* 339 graduates whose employment status is known** 14 pursuing graduate degree full-time 287 employed 216 employed/bar passage required 34 employed/J.D. advantage 30 employed/professional Employment Type*** 135 law firms 51 business and industry 59 government 24 public interest (including public defender) 13 judicial clerkship (federal, state, other) 4 academia 1 employer type unknown
Successful Stetson lawyers work in every sector of the legal profession, including government agencies, the judiciary, the military, nongovernmental organizations, and at large, medium and small law firms. In response to the growing trend of attorneys opening their own legal practices, Stetson’s Solo Practice Network connects aspiring and experienced solo practitioners through mentorship opportunities and educational workshops. Beyond the legal arena, our graduates have achieved success in business, public and private education, health care, sports management, broadcasting and other fields.
While Stetson’s Career Development Office offers tools, instruction, advice and many hands-on opportunities to practice critical career and job acquisition skills, employment following law school depends on a number of important factors, including academic performance, bar exam passage, class rank, grades, clinic and internship participation, and one’s personal efforts to learn, master and apply career development skills. The job market at the time of graduation, as well as the location and sector where graduates wish to practice will affect the length of time it may take to achieve employment in their first positions after law school.
* Stetson’s Class of 2012 consists of those who graduated in December 2011, May 2012 and July 2012. ** All graduate employment status listed as of Feb. 15, 2013, as reported to the American Bar Association, available at employmentsummary.abaquestionnaire.org. For more information regarding Stetson’s post-graduation employment rates, visit www.law.stetson.edu/career. ***Of the 287 employed.
Before joining Stetson, Director of Career Development Cathy Martin served as a human resources executive. She also has served in leadership positions in Workforce Florida, Leadership Florida and other organizations. 24
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Photos courtesy of St. Petersburg/ Clearwater Convention and Visitors Bureau and Tampa Bay and Company.
Tampa Bay
An exciting array of attractions, beaches and activities are waiting just around the corner. The active yet relaxing Florida lifestyle is an ideal counterpoint to the rigors of academic study. As part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan region, Stetson offers you access to one of Florida’s most vibrant business and legal communities, and positions you in a thriving cultural center with numerous environmental and international opportunities. The St. Petersburg/Gulfport region boasts magnificent beaches, palm-lined boulevards and sunshine throughout the year. Relax to live music at one of the many restaurants and clubs on the beach or downtown. Refine your tennis stroke or golf swing. Attend a spring training game. Or spend a day on cultural pursuits at the Museum of Fine Arts or the Salvador Dalí Museum. Tampa offers Busch Gardens theme park and animal preserve, the Florida Aquarium, and the nightlife of historic Ybor City. The Tampa Bay region also is rich in parks, biking paths, playing fields, fishing piers, boating, shopping, marinas and golf courses. The temperate climate allows you to enjoy these activities year round. Tampa Bay is home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tampa Bay Lightning. The 2010 American League East Champion Tampa Bay Rays play just five miles away from Stetson’s Gulfport campus, and Tampa has been the site of a number of major conventions, including the 2012 Republican National Convention.
My professors have always been available and willing to meet with me to not only discuss course material, but also to provide insight about the various programs offered, potential internships and externships, legal opportunities in the surrounding communities, as well as potential career paths involving new and emerging fields of law.
Zachary Karber
Candidate for Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration, 2014 Past Legal Intern, U.S. Representative Kathy Castor B.A., James Madison University
Stetson University College of Law Stetson Tampa Law Center Museums Performing Arts Attractions Parks/Recreation Areas Professional Sports
Downtown 26
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Tuition and Fees Full-Time
Admission and Financial Planning
Fall 2013–Spring 2014
$37,462
Fall 2013
The faculty, administration and student organizations do a great job of creating a wonderful learning environment. Also, many people don’t realize how important research and writing skills are in the legal field. I love that Stetson has one of the top legal research and writing programs in the nation.
Elizabeth Ufot ’13 Ethics & Compliance, BP B.M., Baylor University; J.D., Stetson University
Applying to Stetson
Federal Financial Aid
If you haven’t already applied to Stetson, you can find more information by visiting stetson.edu/lawadmissions or calling 727562-7802 to set up a visit with a counselor.
Students seeking any type of federal financial aid must annually submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is available on January 1 of each year and can be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The information on the FAFSA is transmitted electronically to the schools you list on the application. Stetson Law’s school code is E00342.
Entering Student Scholarships Stetson Law awards multi-year scholarships to selected entering students. All admitted students are considered for scholarships; no special application is required. Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, a range of other personal accomplishments and experiences, and the ability to further the mission of the College of Law. Applicants who wish for their unique circumstances and backgrounds to be considered may include an addendum with their application. Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis. For Fall 2013, approximately 48 percent of incoming students received a scholarship ranging from partial tuition to full tuition plus a stipend. Detailed information about the awarding and selection processes, scholarship retention data, and scholarships from Stetson and outside sources can be found at stetson.edu/ lawfinaid.
Assistance for Continuing Students Several programs provide financial assistance to students after they enroll, including a small number of partial-tuition merit scholarships based on first-year academic performance, leadership, community service and need. Announcements for these scholarships are shared via the Stetson website, email, Twitter and Facebook. Scholarships to recognize public service are also available through endowed and university funds. Stetson offers a full-tuition scholarship for a student entering his or her final year with a record of public service who plans to continue that path for three years after graduation. Stetson participates in the Veterans Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program, offering tuition assistance to 15 student veterans or eligible dependents. Teaching assistantships and faculty research assistantships are available on a competitive basis to upper-level students who have a strong academic record and an interest in scholarly research and writing. Teaching assistants support faculty teaching (but do not teach courses themselves), and research assistants support professors with books, law review articles and other projects.
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Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
Spring 2014 Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
Living Expenses Living expense budget projections based on double-occupancy living arrangements are available at stetson.edu/lawfinaid. Students who complete the FAFSA will be offered a financial aid package to cover the full cost of attendance (including living expenses), although many students choose not to accept the full amount of loan aid offered. Students will be given a sample monthly budget showing local living expense averages, and should reduce expenses wherever possible. Stetson financial planning counselors are ready offer support via instant message, Skype, phone or in person, including evening hours.
$18,731 $110 $50
Summer 2014
Student loans are processed through the federal Direct Loan Program. The lender is the U.S. Department of Education, though the entity you interact with (your loan servicer) can be a private business. Student borrowers are not required to begin making payments until after they graduate or leave school. The Direct Loan Program offers Stafford Unsubsidized Loans (fixed rate, currently 5.41%) and Graduate Plus Loans (fixed rate, currently 6.41%) to graduate or professional students. Interest rates are subject to change. The Graduate Plus Loan will require a credit check. To be considered credit-worthy, students must have non-delinquent credit or obtain a coendorser. Students are encouraged to check their credit report on an annual basis. For more information about federal student loans, visit www.studentloans.gov and studentaid.ed.gov. All students who borrow must complete entrance and exit counseling, sign master promissory notes and accept conditions of receiving financial aid. Students may schedule one-on-one sessions with our friendly financial planning counselors or attend workshops on any of the following topics: • Public Service Loan Forgiveness • Understanding, Managing and Repairing Credit • Financial Advocacy (one-credit course) • Finances During the Bar Exam Study Period
$18,731 $110 $50
Tuition per session Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
Part-Time
Fall 2013–Summer 2014
$9,696 $30 $50
$32,592
Fall 2013 Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$12,941 $100 $50
Spring 2014 Tuition per semester Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$12,941 $100 $50
Summer 2014 (first summer required) Tuition per session Student activity fee Student Bar Association fee
$6,710 $30 $50
Miscellaneous Fees
“ 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 Academic Affairs 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
(non-refundable) Application fee Confirmation fee/seat deposit Transfer student application fee Visiting student application fee Late fee
$55 $500 $55 $50 $200
Housing (Fall 2013–Spring 2014) On-Campus Single w/shared bath $2,395/sem. Super-Single w/shared bath* $2,680/sem. Special Needs w/private bath $2,680/sem. *Includes living area, sleeping area and small dinette Off-Campus Rosa Apartments Stetson Houses
$855/month $650–$1,200/month
Stetson housing is available on a firstcome, first-served basis. For more information, visit stetson.edu/lawhousing.
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www.law.stetson.edu/tour Check out our interactive campus tour, which features sweeping 360-degree views of our campuses and surrounding communities.
710/219 total full-time JD/part-time JD students 269 JD entrants in 2013 224 full-time and 45 part-time students Full-time entrants 75th percentile Median 25th percentile
LSAT 158 155 152
GPA 3.61 3.40 3.17
Part-time entrants 75th percentile Median 25th percentile
LSAT 155 153 150
GPA 3.40 3.20 2.92
20% minority/53.53% female 19-50 age range of 2013 entering JD class, average in the mid-20s 30
28 advanced degrees (including MA, MAcc, MBA, MS, MSW, MD and PhD) earned by the 2013 JD entering class
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states represented in 2013 JD entering class, plus the U.S. Virgin Islands
48.69% new JD students receiving scholarships $37,462 full-time fall/spring tuition $32,592 part-time fall/spring/summer tuition (Summer session is required for part-time students) *Data as of Aug. 24, 2013, the first day of fall classes
A day in the life of a law student
More than a campus tour, you’ll visit a real class, talk to professors and students, and discover life at Stetson firsthand. Contact the Office of Admissions and Student Financial Planning at (877) 529-7838 to schedule your appointment.
Contact Stetson Law Phone Fax U.S. mail Email Website Social media
(877) 529-7838 or (727) 562-7802 (727) 343-0136 1401 61st St. S., Gulfport FL 33707 lawadmit@law.stetson.edu finaid@law.stetson.edu stetson.edu/lawadmissions stetson.edu/lawfinaid facebook.com/stetsonlaw twitter.com/stetsonlaw youtube.com/stetsonlaw
Directions to Gulfport Campus Take I-275 to St. Petersburg. Exit at 22nd Ave. N. (exit 24) and go west. Once on 22nd Ave., proceed 5.7 miles to 58th St. N. and turn left. Continue on 58th St. for 2.5 miles and turn right at 15th Ave. S. Turn right on 61st St. S., and visitor parking will be on your right.
Stetson’s Gulfport campus becomes tobacco-free in July 2014.
Directions to Tampa Law Center From North or East, take I-275 South to exit 45A (Downtown East, West) and stay to the right for Downtown West. Exit at Doyle Carlton Dr. and turn right. Continue on Doyle Carlton Dr. and turn right on Henderson Ave., then turn right on Tampa St. From South, take I-275 North to exit 44, then take Scott St. straight to Florida Ave. Turn left on Florida, then go left on Henderson Ave. Take Henderson to Tampa St. and turn left. The entrance to the parking lot will be on your right. 31
Talented professors and deans serve as dedicated teachers, scholars and mentors. Welcome to the Stetson University College of Law, where you will receive an exemplary valuesbased legal education worthy of the best and brightest students intent upon making a difference in the world. Your education and experiences at Stetson will equip you for more than success — they will prepare you to lead a significant life.
Wendy B. Libby President, Stetson University B.S., M.B.A., Cornell University; Ph.D., University of Connecticut
Kristen David Adams Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor of Law B.A., Rice University J.D., Emory University LL.M., Yale University Michael P. Allen Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Strategic Initiatives, Professor of Law, and Director, Veterans Law Institute B.A., University of Rochester J.D., Columbia University Linda Anderson Professor of Legal Skills and Coordinator of Legal Research and Writing A.B., College of the Holy Cross J.D., Franklin Pierce Law Center
Kirsten K. Davis Professor of Law and Director, Institute for the Advancement of Legal Communication B.A., J.D., The Ohio State University Ph.D., Arizona State University Cynthia H. DeBose Professor of Law B.A., Wellesley College J.D., Harvard University Stephen M. Everhart Professor of Law B.A., Florida State University J.D., University of Florida
Cynthia Batt Associate Professor of Law and Director of Clinical Education B. Ed., M. Ed., J.D., Temple University
Kelly M. Feeley Professor of Legal Skills B.S., Florida State University J.D., Stetson University
Mark D. Bauer Professor of Law B.A., University of Chicago J.D., Emory University
Michael S. Finch Professor of Law B.A., Oberlin College J.D., Boston University S.J.D., Harvard University
Dorothea A. Beane Professor of Law and Co-Director, Institute for Caribbean Law and Policy B.A., Drew University J.D., Rutgers, State University of New Jersey Jason R. Bent Assistant Professor of Law B.A., Grinnell College J.D., University of Michigan Robert D. Bickel Professor of Law B.A., University of South Florida J.D., Florida State University Joan Catherine Bohl Professor of Legal Skills B.A., Boston University J.D., Suffolk University Paul Boudreaux Professor of Law B.A., J.D., University of Virginia LL.M., Georgetown University Brooke J. Bowman Professor of Legal Skills B.S., Indiana University at Bloomington M.S., University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign J.D., Stetson University Catherine J. Cameron Professor of Legal Skills B.A., M.A., J.D., University of Florida
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Lee A. Coppock Trial Advocacy Fellow B.A., University of South Florida J.D., Stetson University
Peter L. Fitzgerald Professor of Law B.A., College of William and Mary J.D., University of California, Hastings LL.M., University of Exeter (U.K.) Roberta K. Flowers Professor of Law and Associate Director of the Center for Excellence in Elder Law B.A., Baylor University J.D., University of Colorado James W. Fox Jr. Professor of Law B.A., University of North Carolina J.D., University of Michigan Clark W. Furlow Professor of Law B.A., Boston University J.D., Emory University Royal C. Gardner Professor of Law, and Director, Institute for Biodiversity Law and Policy A.B., Georgetown University J.D., Boston College Rafael Guzman Distinguished Professorial Lecturer B.A., University of Dayton LL.B., George Washington University Carol Henderson Professor of Law and Director, National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law B.A., University of Florida J.D., George Washington University
Bruce R. Jacob Dean Emeritus and Professor of Law B.A., Florida State University J.D., Stetson University LL.M., Northwestern University LL.M., University of Florida S.J.D., Harvard University
“I invite you to join a law school committed to preparing lawyers and leaders to serve the legal profession and society. We value rigor in our academic program, responsibility to the rule of law and social justice, and loyalty to the relationships that we develop inside and outside the classroom.”
Marco J. Jimenez Professor of Law B.A., B.S., University of Southern California J.D., Yale University Timothy S. Kaye Professor of Law LL.B., University of Sheffield (U.K.) Ph.D., University of Warwick (U.K.)
Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz
Dean and Professor of Law; member of the Florida Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism, Florida Bar Vision 2016 Commission, ABA Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar Data Policy and Collection Committee, and board of trustees member of Law School Admission Council B.A., University of Scranton; J.D., Loyola University (New Orleans); LL.M., Georgetown University
Peter F. Lake Charles A. Dana Chair and Director, Center for Excellence in Higher Education Law and Policy A.B., J.D., Harvard University Lance N. Long Professor of Legal Skills B.A., J.D., Brigham Young University Janice K. McClendon Professor of Law B.A., University of Texas J.D., University of Utah LL.M., New York University Jeffrey J. Minneti Professor of Legal Skills and Director of Academic Success B.A., University of South Florida M.B.A., J.D., Samford University Hon. Andrew G.T. Moore II Fmr. Chief Justice, Delaware Supreme Court Distinguished Professorial Lecturer B.B.A., J.D., Tulane University Rebecca C. Morgan Boston Asset Management Chair in Elder Law and Director, Center for Excellence in Elder Law B.S.B.A., Central Missouri State University J.D., Stetson University Joseph F. Morrissey Professor of Law B.A., Princeton University J.D., Columbia University Luz Estella Nagle Professor of Law LL.D., Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana M.A., LL.M., University of California at Los Angeles J.D., College of William and Mary Marleen A. O’Connor Professor of Law B.S., DePaul University J.D., Duke University
Jason Palmer Associate Professor of Legal Skills B.A., University of Virginia J.D., George Washington University Ann M. Piccard Professor of Legal Skills B.A., Florida State University J.D., Stetson University LL.M., University of London (U.K.) Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz Dean and Professor of Law B.A., University of Scranton J.D., Loyola University (New Orleans) LL.M., Georgetown University Ellen S. Podgor Gary R. Trombley Family White Collar Crime Research Professor B.S., Syracuse University M.B.A., University of Chicago J.D., Indiana University at Indianapolis LL.M., Temple University Theresa J. Pulley Radwan Associate Dean for Administration and Business Affairs and Professor of Law B.A., University of Dayton J.D., College of William and Mary Charles H. Rose III Professor of Excellence in Trial Advocacy and Director, Center for Excellence in Advocacy B.A., Indiana University at South Bend J.D., University of Notre Dame LL.M., The Judge Advocate General’s School, United States Army Susan D. Rozelle Professor of Law B.A., University of Central Florida J.D., Duke University
Judith A.M. Scully Wm. Reece Smith Jr. Distinguished Professor of Law B.A., University of Chicago J.D., George Washington University Ciara Torres-Spelliscy Assistant Professor of Law B.A., Harvard University J.D., Columbia Law School Rebecca S. Trammell Law Library Director; Professor of Law; and Director of Electronic Education B.A., Lindenwood University M.L.S., Dominican University J.D., University of Denver Ph.D. candidate, Nova Southeastern University Stephanie A. Vaughan Professor of Legal Skills and Associate Director of the Center for Excellence in Advocacy B.A., University of Alabama J.D., Stetson University Louis J. Virelli III LeRoy Highbaugh Sr. Research Chair and Professor of Law B.S.E., Duke University M.S.E., J.D., University of Pennsylvania Darryl C. Wilson Attorneys’ Title Insurance Fund Professor of Law and Co-Director, Institute for Caribbean Law and Policy B.F.A., B.B.A., Southern Methodist University J.D., University of Florida LL.M., John Marshall Law School
Visiting Faculty Natalie M. Banta Bruce R. Jacob Visiting Assistant Professor of Law B.S., J.D., Brigham Young University Edwin M. Boyer Borchard Distinguished Professorial Lecturer in Elder Law B.A., M.A., Ed.S., University of South Florida J.D., Stetson University Kurt Lenz Visiting Assistant Professor of Legal Skills B.A., J.D., Duquesne University James A. Sheehan Practitioner in Residence B.A., State University of New York J.D., Stetson University Rachel VanLandingham Bruce R. Jacob Visiting Assistant Professor of Law B.S., U.S. Air Force Academy M.P.M., University of Maryland, College Park J.D., University of Texas LL.M., The Judge Advocate General’s School Ramsi Woodcock Bruce R. Jacob Visiting Assistant Professor of Law B.A., Yale University J.D., Harvard University
Candace Zierdt Professor of Law B.A., J.D., University of Kansas LL.M., Temple University
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Stetson’s Tampa Law Center
Stetson University, DeLand Stetson Center at Celebration College of Law, Tampa Bay
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Full-time and part-time options
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J.D./M.B.A.,J.D./M.P.H., J.D./Grado en Derecho, and J.D./M.I.E.L. dual-degree programs
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LL.M. degrees in advocacy, elder law and international law
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Ranked No. 1 for trial advocacy and No. 5 in legal writing
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Concentrations in advocacy, elder law, environmental law, international law and social justice
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Six study abroad programs
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Championship advocacy competition teams
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Four academic law journals
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Florida’s first private university and first law school
The College of Law is part of Stetson University, with a College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, and School of Music in DeLand, Florida. A university satellite center in Celebration offers advanced degrees.
College of Law Admissions and Student Financial Planning 1401 61st Street South • Gulfport, Florida 33707 1700 North Tampa Street • Tampa, Florida 33602 (877) LAW-STET • (727) 562-7802 • Fax: (727) 343-0136 lawadmit@law.stetson.edu • stetson.edu/lawadmissions ©2013, Stetson University College of Law. All rights reserved. Stetson University is an equal opportunity educational institution.