THIS IS YOUR LAW SCHOOL.
uidaho.edu/law | A LEGACY OF LEADING
Table of Contents Dean’s Message...........1 Curriculum.................. 5 Areas of Emphasis.......7 Boise Third-Year Program..................... 14 Enriching Learning Environment...............17 Lawyering in the Real World..................19 Student Services...................... 29 Excellence Through Diversity.................... 30 Two Great Communities............. 32 Admissions................ 36
Welcome
to the University of Idaho
College of Law
This law school is old... and new. Founded in 1909, it has entered a second century of teaching, with a faculty that truly cares about student outcomes, scholarship, dedication to solving real problems and service, with a commitment to improving the administration of justice. The College has emerged as one of the best educational values in the nation, not only because of its cost-effectiveness, but also because of its legacy of leading in the judiciary, the legal profession, business and public service. The College’s success is built upon a steadfast belief that a law school should stand for something. At the University of Idaho College of Law, we stand for: •
Serving the public and making justice accessible, as exemplified by our pro bono service program and leading clinical program;
•
Shaping sound public policy through interdisciplinary teaching and scholarship, demonstrated by our “Waters of the West” initiative;
•
Preparing students for a world of specialization, by offering courses of study that draw upon the strengths of both a land-grant research campus (Moscow) and a dynamic metropolitan setting (Boise);
•
Strengthening sustainability and understanding the challenges facing the American West through our natural resources, environmental, and Native American Law emphases;
•
Promoting economic development and efficient resolution of disputes through our programs in mediation, ethical litigation, business law, and entrepreneurism;
•
Advancing diversity, expressed by our commitment to equal opportunity and by our wide-open welcome of multiple perspectives and backgrounds;
•
Elevating academic quality above quantity, evidenced by our highly selective admissions process and close faculty-student collaboration in intimate learning environments; and
•
Affirming that a life in the law is a noble calling, reflected in our acclaimed professionalism program in which small groups of students talk face-to-face with distinguished lawyers and judges about ethics and professionalism on their first day of law school.
These distinctive characteristics reflect our strategic vision for delivering exceptional value in legal education. Please explore our website or contact me directly to learn more about this remarkable institution.
Michael A. Satz Interim Dean msatz@uidaho.edu
1
Celebrating 100-plus Years 2
•
Established in 1909
•
Accredited by the American Bar Association since 1925
•
Opportunities to live and learn in Moscow and Boise
Accessible
Faculty
These are exciting times at the College of Law! Since beginning its second century of providing public legal education in Idaho, the College of Law has welcomed 18 new faculty members. The College of Law’s faculty members, both new and long-standing, come from diverse social and legal backgrounds. They include former judges, prosecutors, public defenders, JAG attorneys and attorneys from a variety of private practice areas. Our faculty members ensure that the region, the country, and even the world take notice of the College of Law by producing an impressive quality and quantity of scholarly work. They serve the community by giving their time to a number of worthy causes. They strive to expand and improve the program and course offerings at the College of Law.
Jennifer Jensen ’13 is clerking for Judge N. Randy Smith of the U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit. Of her experience at the University of Idaho College of Law she says, “I appreciated the relatively small class sizes and the accessibility of the professors,
College of Law faculty members dedicate themselves
who were genuinely
to the success of their students and remain accessible
interested in helping
by maintaining an open-door policy.
us succeed both in
For more on the College of Law faculty, including
classes and in our future
pictures and biographic information, please visit
careers.”
uidaho.edu/law/meetourpeople. To request to sit in on a class and experience our faculty in person, contact the Admissions Office at lawadmit@uidaho.edu.
3
4
Curriculum Our basic form of teaching involves the case method, a study of the actual decisions made by appellate courts. We supplement this with selected readings that provide key insights into the nature of judicial and legislative processes. Many of our advanced courses provide students with the opportunity for simulated exercises and problem solving. We emphasize techniques that foster student initiative and the development of analytical and communication skills.
National Recognition •
preLaw magazine named our curriculum and programs in Boise in the top 25 for being the most innovative in legal education today.
•
preLaw magazine ranked the College of Law as providing the 15th best externship program in the country.
•
Businessinsider.com named us the 13th least expensive law school in the nation.
•
Our intellectual property, business law, environmental law, international law, litigation and alternative dispute programs are regarded as some of the best in the country.
•
National Jurist ranked the College of Law’s clinical program 13th in the nation in 2011.
Your First Year Fall Semester Credits
Spring Semester Credits
Civil Procedure and Introduction to Law.................3
Civil Procedure II ........................3
Property .....................................4
Constitutional Law ...................4
Torts ..........................................4
Statutory Reading and Interpretation..............................3
Contracts ..................................4
Criminal Law................................3
Legal Research/Writing (year-long) ...............................................................5
Graduation Requirements •
Students must complete six semesters of full-time study in residence and earn 90 semester hours of credit maintaining a minimum 2.00 grade point average.
•
Students must pass all first-year courses, Constitutional Law II, and Professional Responsibility.
•
Students must earn at least two credits in courses designed to teach professional legal skills and write a major paper to satisfy an upper-division writing requirement.
•
Because the College, like the legal profession, places a high value on public service, all students must complete at least 40 hours of law-related pro bono service before graduation.
All graduation requirements must be completed within six years from the time the student first matriculates into law school.
Professionalism Requirement Students who enter the College of Law must complete a professionalism education program that consists of opportunities that address the following topics: 1) cultural competencies; 2) civility and appropriate professional behaviors; 3) law practice management; 4) bias and thought processes; and 5) other topics related to the development of a student’s professional conduct and identity.
5
6
Areas of Emphasis areas of emphasis offered by the College of Law: 1) Native
Native American Law Courses
American Law; 2) Natural Resources and Environmental Law;
Native American Law
3) Business Law and Entrepreneurship; and 4) Litigation and
Native American Natural Resources Law
Students who wish to specialize may choose from one of four
Alternative Dispute Resolution. Students who successfully complete their area of emphasis will have this reflected on their official College of Law transcript.
Native American Law The College of Law has an ongoing commitment to educating students in the area of Native American Law and encouraging Native Americans to enter into the field of law. Students who are interested in the Native American Law
Tribal Nation Economics and Law Students will choose six credits from one of the following tracks: Economic Development Family Law Governance Natural Resources
Emphasis may apply following their first year and are required to work closely with the Native American Law Emphasis adviser, Professor Angelique EagleWoman. In 2013, Professor EagleWoman was named in the Top 50 Under 50 Minority Law
For a complete list of courses see uidaho.edu/law/ academics/areasofstudy/ nativelaw.
Professors by Lawyers of Color magazine. This emphasis requires 12 credits of designated coursework, a substantial research paper in the area of Native American Law, and completion of a total of 20 service hours of experiential learning that involves the application of Native American Law. For more information regarding the Native American Law Emphasis, visit uidaho.edu/law/academics/areasofstudy/ nativelaw.
7
8
Natural Resources and Environmental Law The Northwest abounds in natural resources, and issues involving natural resources and the environment have figured prominently in Idaho’s legal history. The College of Law benefits from nationally recognized natural resource colleges at the University
Natural Resources and Environmental Law Courses Administrative Law Environmental Law
of Idaho and nearby Washington State University, as well as
Environmental Policy
numerous outdoor laboratories. Moscow provides the ideal place
Externship
to study natural resources and environmental law. This program was developed in response to the general fact that the practice of law is becoming more specialized and that the practice of natural resources and environmental law has become highly technical and complex. Students who are interested in the Natural Resources and Environmental Law Emphasis may apply for the emphasis during their first year. Once they apply, students are assigned a faculty adviser. The Natural Resources and Environmental Law Emphasis requires 18 credits of designated coursework and a major writing assignment. For more information regarding the Natural Resources and Environmental Law Emphasis, visit uidaho.edu/law/ academics/areasofstudy/nrel. To learn more about the Natural Resources and Environmental Law Symposium, visit uidaho.edu/law/newsandevents/ signature/nrel-symposium.
Interdisciplinary Methods in Water Resources International Environmental and Water Law Land Use Law and Planning Law, Science and the Environment Seminar Native American Law Native American Natural Resources Law Natural Resources Law and Policy Natural Resources Law Seminar Natural Resources and Environmental Law Field Course Water Law I Water Law II Water and Energy Policy Seminar Wildlife Law and Policy Writing the Environment
9
10
Business Law and Entrepreneurship The College of Law offers many possibilities for in-depth study of business law and entrepreneurship. This emphasis has three tracks — the Commercial Law track, the Enterprise Organization track, and the
Business Law and Entrepreneurship Courses
Intellectual Property and Technology Law track. Students may choose
Accounting for Law Students
only one track within the emphasis.
Administrative Law
•
The Commercial Law track is designed with a focus on the various laws that govern commercial transactions.
Advanced Torts
•
The Enterprise Organization track is designed with a focus on the legal issues that surround the formation, operation and governance of businesses.
•
The Intellectual Property and Technology Law track is designed with a focus on the legal issues that surround the protection of intellectual property and the management of intellectual property rights.
Interested students may apply during their first year. Upon acceptance, students are assigned a faculty adviser with whom they must meet once a semester. The Business Law and Entrepreneurship Emphasis requires 22 credits (12 within a chosen track) of designated coursework, an additional course that fulfills a skills requirement (variable credits), and a major writing assignment. For more information regarding the Business Law and Entrepreneurship Emphasis, visit uidaho.edu/law/academics/areasofstudy/ businesslawandentrepreneurship.
Antitrust Regulations Bankruptcy Business Associations Business Entities Taxation Consumer Law Copyrights Cyberlaw Environmental Law for Business Intellectual Property: Unfair Competition International Trade and Investment Introduction to Intellectual Property Mass Media Law Negotiable Instruments Patents Property Security Real Estate Transactions Sales Securities Regulations Suretyship and Guaranty Taxation Trademarks and Trade Dress Workplace Law
11
12
Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution The Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Emphasis offers students an opportunity to develop a wide range of skills critical in today’s competitive legal environment. From traditional courtroom litigation to the rapidly growing disciplines of negotiation and mediation, students are trained for the dynamic legal environment. Our experiential education programs complement the emphasis by offering students an opportunity to explore lawyering from a variety of perspectives.
Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Courses Advanced Legal Research Advanced Legal Writing Appellate Advocacy
Opportunities include the following:
Appellate (Moot) Court
•
six in-house clinics;
Civil Mediation
•
one-credit mini-clinics;
•
numerous externship offerings; and
•
various simulation courses.
Clinical Labs Dispute Resolution
This program gives law students the chance to experience lawyering as
Evidence
the profession they will soon be entering. We believe that good lawyers
Family Mediation
owe a duty of care and responsibility to their clients, society and the legal profession. The clinical experience reinforces the College of Law’s commitment to the development of lawyering skills and the understanding of ethics and the values associated with good lawyering. For more information regarding the Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Emphasis, visit uidaho.edu/law/academics/ areasofstudy/ladr.
Lawyering Process Legal Aid Internship (Clinic) Legal Drafting Legal Externship Mock Trial Negotiation and Appropriate Dispute Resolution
Concurrent Degree Programs Students who wish to maximize the investment of their time and money, and aim to become more specialized, may consider one of our concurrent degree programs. •
J.D./M.S. in Bioregional Planning and Community Design
•
J.D./M.S/Ph.D. in Water Resources (Law, Management and Policy)
•
J.D./M.S. in Environmental Science
•
J.D./MACCT (Master of Accountancy)
•
J.D./M.S. in Accountancy, Taxation (Offered in cooperation with Boise State University)
•
J.D./P.S.M. (Professional Science Master’s) in Natural Resources and Environmental Science
Public Service Externship Semester in Practice Small Business Legal Clinic Trial Advocacy Trial Skills
To request more information, e.g., admission requirements, graduation requirements, and so on, regarding concurrent degree programs, contact the Admissions Office at lawadmit@uidaho.edu to request a program-specific flyer. 13
The Boise
Third-Year Program
14
The Third-Year in Boise program offers a dynamic mix of doctrinal and experiential learning opportunities for thirdyear law students. The University of Idaho has a statewide mission to deliver public legal education. As part of that mission, the College of Law has developed a focused, high-quality curriculum for students completing their third year of law school. During their first year at the College of Law, students may apply to spend their third year in Boise. This program offers a dynamic mix of doctrinal and experiential learning programs for third-year law students.
Doctrinal In this program, we offer business and commercial law courses. Common courses include bankruptcy, negotiable instruments, securities regulation, property security, workplace law and white-collar crime. Boise and Moscow courses are made available through distance education technology.
Experiential We offer the Small Business Legal Clinic, Economic Development Clinic and Low-Income Taxpayer’s Clinic in addition to a series of public and private sector externships. Placements for externships include federal and state courts, county and city prosecutor offices, Legal Aid and Public Defender offices, the Office of the Attorney General, and select corporate counsel offices. For more information regarding the Boise Program, visit uidaho.edu/law/academics/boise.
Semester In Practice Program Third-year College of Law students have an opportunity to develop practical skills with a Semester in Practice in Boise.
Megan Fernandez ’11 Associate, Hopkins Roden Crockett Hansen & Hoopes, Idaho Falls, Idaho “I really enjoyed the abundant professional networking opportunities in Boise. I developed mentoring relationships with the judges and practicing attorneys and learned directly from professionals what legal practice is all about.”
Approved public agencies and nonprofit organizations benefit from students’ talent and enthusiasm, while offering hands-on externship training for soon-to-be graduates. 15
16
Enriched Learning Environment
Legal training involves much more than what students take away from the classroom. Every year, the College of Law sponsors events and programs that broaden student skills and experience. The Idaho Court of Appeals and Idaho Supreme Court regularly hear cases in our courtroom. We believe opportunities like these give our students an integrated and invaluable legal education. Here are just a few events: Sherman J. Bellwood Lecture—The Bellwood lectures bring prominent and highly regarded local, regional and national leaders to the state of Idaho and the University of Idaho campus. Students have the opportunity to discuss, examine and debate numerous subjects related to the justice system. Previous speakers include national civil rights leader Morris Dees (pictured left) and Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. Columbia River Governance—The Universities’ Consortium on Columbia River Governance was formed to develop a research program to inform, guide and shape decision making, and influence policy in decisions concerning the Columbia River Treaty. Idaho Law Review Symposium—This event continues the tradition of bringing together a select group of scholars and professionals for an informed interdisciplinary discussion centered on a topic of growing national importance. By exposing members of the academic, business, technological and legal communities to diverse viewpoints and multifaceted experiences, the Symposium aims to provide a forum for open discourse, and offers participants important information that applies to attendees’ own business and legal situations. Native American Law Events—These events provide educational opportunities on the law by and between Tribal, federal and state governments. In 2013, the Navajo Nation Supreme Court, which has jurisdiction over the largest tribal land base and population in the Unites States, visited the College of Law to hear oral arguments. For more information on news and events, visit uidaho.edu/ law/newsandevents.
Aaron Calkins ’10 Regional Director, Northern Idaho, U.S. Congressman Raúl R. Labrador “Attending the College of Law was one of the best decisions I have made. At the College of Law I received a quality legal education and built relationships that will last the rest of my life. “The classes I took provided me with a broad base of legal knowledge that has served me well. The faculty and administration were always willing to take time to answer questions and address concerns. I continue to call on many of my former professors for insight on legal issues. “Since graduating, I have maintained relationships with many of my classmates. I always look forward to opportunities to get together with the friends I made in law school to reminisce and to talk of my personal and professional successes.” 17
18
Lawyering in the Real World Professional Development We believe that the student experience at the College of Law should include numerous opportunities to gain a head start on a successful legal career. Experiential learning and professional development are woven into the fabric of our curriculum, and you will find our com-
Yatziri Magaña ’16
mitment to public service evident in everything the College of Law offers. We believe this is essential in providing our students with a
Kennewick, Washington
legal education that is relevant in today’s world.
“I have had such a
First Week
great experience at the College of Law. The small
From the first day of New Student Orientation, our students grapple
class sizes allow for a
with the meaning of the law and the challenges of being a lawyer
strong community bond
through the College of Law’s Professionalism Workshop. Students
between the students.
have the first of many opportunities to meet with distinguished
Best of all, the professors
members of the bench and bar who travel from all parts of the
are always willing to help.
Northwest to donate their time to this innovative program. In small
I can’t imagine having
discussion groups, judges and lawyers engage first-year students in
that accessibility at any
examining factual scenarios designed to produce thoughtfulness and
other school.”
introspection on topics such as civility, truthfulness and fairness in litigation; fiduciary obligation to clients; reasonableness of attorney fees; conflicts of interest; and pro bono service for clients in need.
First Year In first-year Legal Research and Writing, students collaborate in small groups to learn how to perform legal research and prepare legal documents. In addition to research and writing, students write a mock appellate brief during their first semester and deliver the oral argument on that brief during the spring semester of their first year.
19
20
Pro Bono Service Requirement
“Extracurricular activities”
With support from student organizations and leaders in the legal
takes on new meaning at
profession, the College of Law adopted a universal pro bono program,
the UI College of Law, or
which puts Idaho in the vanguard of a nationwide movement.
at the very least, seems to
The College of Law’s pro bono program requires all students to perform at least 40 hours of law-related service under the supervision of lawyers or judges prior to graduation. Students can choose from an array of opportunities or create their own project based on their interests. Pro bono services provide students with real-world experience while exposing them to the core value of service in the legal profession.
pack a wallop not always associated with the term. For example: While attending the University of Idaho College of Law,
Kirstin Eidenbach, (pictured left) J.D. magna cum laude, ’09, drafted
Law Library
a model law to regulate private ownership of
With the guidance of the College of Law
primates. This project
Library professionals, students hone their
was made possible by the
electronic and print research skills through-
support of the Jane Goodall
out law school.
Institute’s ChimpanZoo.
The Law Library maintains a comprehen-
Kirstin graduated from
sive collection to support law students and faculty in their scholarly pursuits. Numbering more than 250,000 volumes and volume equivalents, the collection has primary materials for the federal system and all 50 states. Secondary materials, such as treatises, law reviews and other services, round out the American law collection. There is also a working collection of United Kingdom and Canadian primary and secondary materials, and a growing International Law collection. The Law Library also
the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law, LL.M. Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy Program, ‘10. She is an associate at Perkins Coie in Phoenix, Ariz. Kirstin is also founding editor of the crit, a critical legal
serves as a Selective Federal Government Documents depository.
studies journal and
In addition to print resources, a host of electronic databases is accessible
annual critical legal studies
from the Law Library website. College of Law faculty, staff and students have
conference.
organized the school’s first
individual access to the LexisNexis, Westlaw, and Bloomberg Law databases. The Law Library also subscribes to many other legal and non-legal databases, such as Congressional Universe, Hein Online, LegalTrac, LoisLaw and Bloomberg BNA. Moreover, the Idaho State Bar provides law students with free access to the Idaho State Bar Association’s Casemaker web library. For more information, please visit uidaho.edu/law/library.
21
22
Clinics Third-year students who have earned their limited licenses to practice from the Idaho Supreme Court, may represent clients in a variety of different courts under the supervision of clinical faculty. The clinical program seeks to satisfy the twin goals of providing students with meaningful real-life experiences while offering high-quality legal services to underrepresented populations. Students may gain experience in the following six clinics. •
•
•
•
•
•
General Clinic represents clients in a wide variety of cases, including misdemeanor defense, family law, consumer protection, landlordtenant disputes, probate and civil rights. Economic Development Clinic enables students to advise Idaho counties, cities, tribes and non-governmental agencies with economic development-related issues typically arising in questions of land use law, administrative law, state and local government law, and environmental law. Immigration Clinic students help immigrants from a variety of countries who are seeking asylum, permanent resident status, citizenship, status under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and relief from removal. They represent clients in administrative courts and before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. Students also conduct educational outreach programs and presentations in immigrant communities.
Reed Anderson ’13 Deputy State Appellate Public Defender Boise “As an older student with a diverse background, I wasn’t sure how I would fit in, but the faculty and students at the University of Idaho College of Law made me feel welcome,
Mediation Clinic provides mediation services where students hone their skills in communication, facilitation, negotiation, organization and ethics. Mediation can help resolve disputes, such as divorce, child custody, criminal, personal injury, small claims and more.
and I was surprised by
Tax Clinic represents low-income taxpayers in controversies with the Internal Revenue Service. Students also conduct public information and outreach presentations to inform taxpayers for whom English is a second language and other low-income taxpayers about tax law issues.
dedication of the faculty is
Small Business Legal Clinic assists small and start-up businesses referred to the Clinic by the Idaho Small Business Development Center. Clients include both for profit and nonprofit companies in a variety of business areas. Students perform legal services, such as preparing formation and organizational documents, employee agreements, customer agreements, disclosure forms and privacy agreements.
the large number of other ‘non-traditional’ students. The quality, diversity, and truly impressive, and I made connections and developed friendships here that I know will last throughout my career. “
For more information, visit uidaho.edu/law/academics/ clinicsprofessionalskills.
23
24
Public Service Externships
(pictured left)
Externships help bridge the gap between the theoretical and the practical
Dave Arkoosh ’11
and provide students with experiences that will give them an advantage
Boise
when seeking post-graduation employment. In 2013, the University of Idaho College of Law was named a Top 25 school for externships according to preLaw magazine. Our program enables students to work for selected public agencies, nonprofit organizations, or state and federal judges while receiving credit toward graduation. Students who have completed two-thirds of the required credits for graduation may qualify for a limited license to practice law, that allows them to appear in court and try cases under the supervision
“At the law office of David Arkoosh, I partner with the founders of small, agile companies with big missions. I help my clients in a broad spectrum of mat-
of a licensed attorney.
ters, especially in business
Past Externships
employment law.
Ada County Public Defender’s Office
“I earned my J.D. from the
American Civil Liberties Union
University of Idaho College
California Department of Justice
of Law. I am a proud Boise
Capital Habeas Unit Federal Defenders Services of Idaho
native, and when I am not
Center for Justice (Spokane, Wash.)
in the office, I am with my
City Attorney’s Office—multiple cities
wife and our dog, venturing
Coeur d’Alene Tribe Office of Legal Counsel County Prosecutor’s Office—multiple counties, Idaho and Washington Idaho Attorney General’s Office—criminal, environmental Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence
governance, corporate, and
through Idaho and the surrounding western states, supporting Idaho’s craft food and beverage movement.”
Idaho Legal Aid Services, Inc. Idaho State Bar Idaho State District Court—multiple districts Idaho Volunteers Lawyers Program (IVLP) National Coalition Against Domestic Violence Public Policy Office New Mexico Office of District Attorney, Second Judicial District Nez Perce Tribe Prosecutor’s Office Office of the Governor of Idaho Second District Court, State of Utah Southeast Alaska Conservation Council State Appellate Public Defender’s Office United States Attorney’s Office United States District Court University of Idaho Washington State University Center for Human Rights Washington State Attorney General’s Office 25
26
Skills Competitions Students can hone their skills through legal writing competitions and courtroom competitions. We encourage students to enter papers in any of the dozens of legal writing competitions sponsored annually by the American Bar Association, or other professional associations, law schools and law firms. Students have numerous opportunities to participate in regional and national skills competitions listed below. •
McNichols Appellate Moot Court Competition
•
ABA National Moot Court Competition
•
Dean Jerome Prince Memorial Evidence Competition
•
Mock Trial Competition
•
ABA Bankruptcy Moot Court
•
ABA Mediation Advocacy Competition
•
ABA Negotiation Competition
•
NNALSA Moot Court Competition
Jeremy K. Tamsen ’16 Denver, Colorado “I chose the University of Idaho College of Law to enjoy small class sizes and a diverse team of professors.
Trial Advocacy Program
At our ‘right-sized’ law
Fall 2013 marked the 35th anniversary of the College of Law’s annual trial
school, students thrive in
advocacy program. The week-long program, modeled after the National Institute for Trial Advocacy, provides third-year law students an opportunity to learn practical skills in courtroom advocacy from experienced faculty and accomplished judges and practitioners. As the week-long session concludes, the students test their skills by trying a case to live juries that consist of
a collaborative learning environment. We get to learn as colleagues in a community, not just students in a classroom.”
new, first-year law students.
American Civil Liberties Union
27
28
Student Services To ensure a positive educational experience, the University of Idaho and College of Law strive to provide law students with exceptional student services from campus safety and academic advising to recreation and counseling.
Academic Success The Academic Success Office helps students develop the tools and skills they need to maximize their law school success. The director, a licensed attorney, leads pre-orientation programs, workshops, small group sessions, and individual consultations designed to enhance students’ ability to effectively read, brief, outline and apply the law, and to thrive in the law school environment. Academic services are provided to all students with a special emphasis on first-year students. The Academic Success Office also provides academic advising and bar preparation assistance. For more information, visit uidaho.edu/law/academics/academic-success.
Disability Support Services In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended, the University of Idaho Disability Support Services (DSS) provides support to students with temporary or permanent disabilities. Students who request assistance must provide adequate advance notice of such requests and must provide appropriate disability documentation to DSS. For more information, visit uidaho.edu/studentaffairs/asap/dss.
Career Development The primary responsibility of the Career Development Office is to facilitate employment of law students. Additional purposes are to educate students about the breadth of career opportunities for which a law degree prepares them, and the most successful strategies for pursuing such opportunities; to support the strategic career development of students and alumni through counseling, workshops and programs; and to enhance the reputation of the school and its students. The director and assistant director of Career Development are both licensed attorneys who are active members of the legal community, which allows them to continue to build invaluable relationships with alumni and employers. The director is available full time at the Moscow campus, and the assistant director is available full time at the Boise campus. Both use their combined experience in career services and the practice of law to provide law students and alumni with one-on-one counseling, arrange oncampus interviews and employer visits, host a variety of workshops, cultivate networking opportunities, and review student résumés and cover letters. As a result of the skills honed through interaction with the Career Development Office, College of Law alumni have found employment as judicial clerks at a percentage regularly higher than the average throughout the United States. Our alumni practice law as solo practitioners, in private firms, public service organizations, and prosecutors’ and criminal defenders’ offices. Idaho graduates serve in all branches of local, state and federal government, and hold high-ranking positions in major regional, national and multinational businesses. For more information, including current employment statistics, visit uidaho.edu/law/ careerdevelopment.
29
Excellence through Diversity
Diversity is an essential component of the University of Idaho College of Law and requires legal professionalism from all sectors of our community to provide an appropriately respectful learning environment. The law school community values people of diverse cultures, races, ethnicities, genders, physical abilities, lifestyles, opinions, citizenship, philosophies, sexual orientations, religious backgrounds, ages, life experiences and identities. The College of Law promotes a strong commitment to inclusiveness and diversity as we strive to foster a community of mutual respect among our students, staff and faculty. Our differences of ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, family status, religion and language help make us a vibrant community of scholars, lawyers and professionals. The College of Law commitment to diversity is supported by our:
30
•
Career Development Office, which is committed to expanding career opportunities for women and minority students;
•
Native Law Program and courses such as Critical Legal Studies, and our focus on the legal status, experiences and rights of diverse populations;
•
Pro Bono Program, which requires all students to perform at least 40 hours of law-related public service, assists the underserved and disadvantaged; and
•
Professionalism Program, which exposes students to the importance of cultural competency skills and provides training on bias issues in practice.
More Student Organizations American Civil Liberties Union American Constitution Society Asian Pacific American Law Student Association
Student Organizations
Black Law Student Association
The number and diversity of student organizations in the College of Law comprises both extracurricular and co-curricular activities. Here are a just a few.
Board of Student Advocates
Student Bar Association — the College of Law’s student government that represents the collective interests of the student body in administrative matters.
Federalist Society
Idaho Law Review — the College of Law’s journal of legal scholarship and the only scholarly journal with its primary focus being the law in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest.
Hunting & Fishing Club
Board of Student Advocates — a student organization that oversees and fields competitors for annual mock trial and moot court competitions, such as the Raymond C. McNichols Moot Court Competition.
Idaho Trial Lawyer’s Association
the crit—a critical studies journal that encourages rigorous critical thinking and aims to include the voices of those who are often underrepresented in legal and cultural discourse, including those whose experiences and ideologies are shaped by race, gender and gender identity.
J. Reuben Clark Law Society
Business Law Association Environmental Law Society Fun Club Idaho Golf Club Idaho Law Health and Fitness Clubs Idaho Veteran Law Association Intellectual Property Club The International Law Students Association Latino Law Caucus Law Democrats Law Students for Appropriate Dispute Resolution Multicultural Law Caucus Native American Law Students Association OutLaws Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity, Borah Chapter Public Interest Law Group Volunteer Income Tax Association Women’s Law Caucus The most current listing of student organizations can be found at uidaho.edu/ law/academics/student organizationsandactivities.
31
Black Law Student Association Business Law Association
One Great Law School, Two Great Communities
The College of Law offers opportunities to study and live both in Moscow and Boise. Students spend the first two years of the law program at the University of Idaho campus in Moscow, with the option to complete the third year of the program at the UI Boise building (Water Center) located in downtown Boise. Each of these communities presents a distinct array of venues for learning, professional development and recreation.
32
Moscow The University of Idaho campus in Moscow lies tucked among the rolling hills of the scenic Palouse, a region in north central Idaho recognized by National Geographic magazine for its natural beauty. With a population of 23,800, Moscow is a friendly college town that offers a safe, family-oriented environment. According to the Lumosity website and its 2013 study of the Smartest Cities in America, Moscow ranked 29th.
A Vibrant Community The thriving Moscow community boasts a downtown business center, a collegiate-friendly nightlife, well-maintained parks, a high-quality school system and a variety of restaurants and services. Moscow’s historic downtown—a short walk from campus—offers convenient access to several dining, entertainment and shopping options, including a local farmers’ market. Moscow also supports a rich art and cultural scene, with galleries, theater productions, festivals, dances, concerts and other community events. In addition, Pullman, Washington, home to Washington State University and additional shopping and restaurants is only eight miles away. Twin cities Lewiston, Idaho, and Clarkston, Washington, are only 40 miles away, and Spokane, Washington, a bustling metropolitan area of 500,000 people, is 90 miles away. Also, Portland, Ore.; Missoula, Mont.; and Seattle, Wash. are all within five or six hours’ driving distance.
Outdoor Oasis Ranked by Outside magazine as a top university for outdoor adventure, the University of Idaho in Moscow offers much to the outdoor enthusiast. The region’s picturesque mountains, lakes and rivers feature miles of trails for biking and hiking, world-class skiing and snowboarding, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and excellent fishing and camping. The University’s awardwinning Outdoor Recreation Program helps students enjoy all of these activities with easy equipment rentals and organized group trips.
On-campus Recreation Active students flock to the on-campus Student Recreation Center, a 10,000-square-foot facility with weight training and cardio exercise space, an indoor track, two full-size gyms, and a 55-foot freestanding climbing wall—the tallest of any climbing wall at universities throughout the nation. On-campus recreation also includes an outdoor track complex; tennis, racquetball and basketball courts; an indoor swim center; and an 18-hole golf course.
Affordable Housing Law students in Moscow choose from numerous affordable housing options. On campus, South Hill Apartments and South Hill Vista Apartments—with one-, two-, and three-bedroom units—are ideal for students who are married and/or have children. Elmwood Apartments offer one-bedroom units, with or without a loft, for students who are married or 21 and older. Single students may opt to live in one of the University’s 27 residence halls and living-learning communities. Students who wish to live off campus may rent homes, apartments and condos, new and historic—all at an affordable rate (i.e., 2 bedroom - $550/mo). Many resources are available to help students locate housing. For more information about University Housing, visit uidaho.edu/housing.
Child Care University-sponsored childcare is available through the Early Childhood Learning Center and the Child Development Laboratory in Moscow.
33
Boise Boise is the largest city in Idaho and the core of the state’s most robust metropolitan area, known as the Treasure Valley, with a population of 700,000. Situated five hours south of Moscow, Boise serves as the hub of the region’s economic, business and government activity that creates ample opportunity for professional development and networking.
34
State Capital As the capital of Idaho and the state’s principal center of government, Boise enables students to learn and work alongside Idaho’s lawmakers and members of the state and federal judiciaries. The historic Ada County Courthouse is currently under renovation to serve as the future home of the College of Law in Boise and the Idaho State Bar Library. It is strategically located between the capitol building and the Idaho Supreme Court, and is in close proximity to governmental agencies, the Idaho State Bar, the Idaho Law Foundation and other significant resources and services.
Urban Experience Anchored by a dynamic downtown area, Boise offers big-city adventure with art galleries, museums, cultural events, theater, ballet, opera, a zoo, numerous parks, and first-rate dining and shopping. Boise also hosts popular festivals, including the Idaho Shakespeare Festival and the Boise Music Festival.
Gateway to Recreation The Boise area is a haven for outdoor recreation. Surrounding lakes and rivers attract boaters and fishers from around the region; and the nearby Rocky Mountains are an ideal destination for skiing, snowboarding, backpacking, camping and more. The greenbelt along the Boise River and through downtown is popular with local bicyclists, walkers and joggers. The grassy foothills surrounding the city are traced with trails for hiking and cycling and offer spectacular vistas of the Boise skyline.
35
Admissions
to the College of Law
The University of Idaho College of Law provides one of the most intimate, collegial law school experiences you will find. The environment is friendly and supportive, and you will be surrounded by others who care about your success. In addition, the College is recognized as one of the best values in legal education in the United States. Our tuition and fees are lower than many other law programs, which allows you to maximize your investment.
Requirements for Admission To be considered for admission, applicants must register for the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service (CAS), take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), and have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university. The College of Law highly recommends students take the LSAT in the summer or fall prior to the year they wish to enter law school. We only accept full- and part-time applications for students wishing to start in the fall—not in the spring.
All of the following must accompany the Application for Regular Fall Admission •
Non-refundable $50 application fee.
•
Law School Admission Council Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Report.
•
Résumé—Not to exceed 2 pages.
•
•
36
Any of the following may accompany the Application for Regular Fall Admission •
Evaluation completed via the LSAC Evaluation Service—No more than 1. In other words, you can have your reference submit an evaluation instead of a letter of reference.
Personal statement—Not to exceed 3 pages. The personal statement may be on any topic of your choice. However, it is recommended that you include your reasons for wanting to study law at the University of Idaho College of Law.
•
Diversity Addendum expanding on any circumstance(s) or factor(s) that make the applicant unique.
•
Any other appropriate addendum or addenda.
Letters of Recommendation—No more than 3, but at least 2 are required. You may choose whomever you wish to write on your behalf. However, it is strongly recommended that at least one letter comes from a post-secondary professor whose class you have taken, if possible. Only letters received as part of the applicant’s CAS Report will be considered. Do not have letters sent directly to the College of Law.
priority Deadline: March 15
•
A detailed addendum if any question on the Character and Fitness section of the application is answered “Yes.”
•
An Employment Addendum if student plans to work during the first year of study.
The Admissions Committee will begin reviewing completed files as early as December. Every effort will be made to notify punctual applicants of a decision by early April. We will continue to review applications past our priority deadline of March 15. For transfer or visiting applications, please contact the Admissions Office at lawadmit@uidaho.edu or visit uidaho.edu/law.
Tuition, Scholarships and Loans
Basis for Admissions Decisions When making admissions decisions, the Admissions Committee considers all the information in an applicant’s file. The principal criteria considered are the applicant’s LSAT score, undergraduate grade point average and personal statement. In addition, the Committee considers significant advanced education, writing ability demonstrated through the LSAT and personal statements, significant life experiences, and other information in an applicant’s file that indicates promise of academic excellence, diversity of background, or perspective that will enrich the educational experience of the class.
We are proud to have the 13th most affordable law school tuition in the country. What’s more, non-residents can usually qualify for residency by the second year of law school to receive the low resident tuition rate. The University of Idaho also offers generous merit-based scholarships and out-ofstate tuition waivers to help competitive applicants. Students at the College of Law enjoy tuition that is among the lowest regionally and nationally. All applicants offered admission to the College of Law are automatically considered for scholarship aid. The criteria used in determining awards are the same as the criteria used in the admissions process. Notification of scholarship awards is included in the offer of admission letter. Federal financial aid is available to qualified students through the University’s Financial Aid Office. To apply, a student must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost and Fees for the Academic Year
Important Contacts
University of Idaho Law Admissions – lawadmit@uidaho.edu or (208) 885-2300
Tuition and Full-time Student Fees $15,774 Room and Board
$9,412
$9,412
Law School Admission Council – lsac.org or (215) 968-1001
Books and Supplies (estimated)
$1,232
$1,232
$26,418
$39,494
Transportation (estimated)
$1,264
$1,264
Miscellaneous and Personal
$3,836
$3,836
$31,518
$44,594
University of Idaho Office of Financial Aid – finaid@uidaho.edu or (208) 885-6312 University of Idaho University Housing – housing@uidaho.edu or (208) 885-7379
Subtotal: Base Costs
Total Costs:
Idaho Residents Non-Residents $28,850
University of Idaho Office of the Registrar – registrar@uidaho.edu or (208) 885-6731 37
The University of Idaho College of Law has a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, or status as a Vietnamera veteran. This policy applies to all programs, services and facilities, and includes, but is not limited to, applications, admissions, access to programs and services, career services and employment. Such discrimination is prohibited by Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran’s Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act Amendment of 1978, the American with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, and other state and federal laws and regulations. College Rules and Regulations, Rights Reserved by the University, Mutual Responsibility Agreement and Sources and Exceptions to Rules and Regulations can be found at uidaho.edu/law.
PO Box 442321 Moscow, ID 83844-2321 (208) 885-2300 uidaho.edu/law