Family Law Clinic – 7420

The Family Law Clinic is a two-semester course (Fall semester, 4 credits /Spring semester, 3 credits).  Students receive a grade at the completion of both semesters.  If a student cannot complete both semesters, that student should not take this course. This clinic is grounded in the development of practical skills necessary to effectively develop and move family law cases from initial client interview to Judgment and Decree.

Of the twelve classes in fall semester, two classes consist of simulated learning and the other ten consist of lecture with in-class exercises, such as, calculating child support.  The two simulations include:  client interview and a default hearing. The simulations are grounded in one fictional family law case file.  Each student enrolled in the Family Law Clinic will also assist at the Anoka County Family Law Clinic on two Friday afternoons throughout the academic year. 

There is no class in spring semester, but student attorneys’ dockets increase to three cases and are required to attend weekly meetings with their case team to discuss case planning, client counseling, review documents, and prepare for court appearances. Court preparation often requires time, in addition to weekly meetings, to moot and prepare for appearances.

The Family Law Clinic may or may not offer students an opportunity to participate in trial.  To obtain trial advocacy skills applicable in any litigation setting, students are advised but not required to enroll in Evidence and Trial Practice.

There are no prerequisites or co-requisites for this clinic course.