Clinical Programs

We offer clinical education—hands-on work with real clients—in areas as varied as criminal law, health-care advocacy and business law and entrepreneurship.

Clinical students receive a rich educational experience by applying the legal theory they have learned in the classroom to help real people outside of the classroom.

Students learn not only what the law is, but also how the law works. It is UW Law's law-in-action approach that helps develop well-educated, thoughtful graduates who are able successfully to bridge the gap between law school and practice. 

Externships

Through the UW Law School's externship programs, students receive course credit for working in an off-campus legal setting, such as a judge’s office or a state agency, under the supervision of an on-site attorney.

Students may work in branches of the government, including state and federal levels and executive agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations and corporate counsel's offices.

Students gain professional lawyering skills and insights into various aspects of the legal system and profession and have opportunities to network.

Lawyering Skills

The goal of the Lawyering Skills course is to integrate what students have learned throughout law school with the core skills needed for effective law practice, particularly in the early years of practice.

The course provides a number of simulations that enable students to develop lawyering skills in a carefully supervised, hands-on classroom setting. These skills include oral communication, negotiations, writing for practice and client counseling.

Pro Bono Opportunities*

The Pro Bono Program provides students with opportunities to deliver legal services to underrepresented community members.

Students are assisted and supported by Pro Bono Program staff with placements in private and nonprofit law firms, legal aid groups, in-house programs and other organizations, where they will perform pro bono work under direct attorney supervision.

*Not for academic credit.