Why?

For over 27 years USC School of Law has been encouraging all law students to be involved in their communities from the first day they enter law school. The culture of service is a part of the tradition at USC Law and taken to heart by the students. They embrace the idea of volunteering as a law clerk on a pro bono case as not only an opportunity to serve but also one where they can hone their skills, embrace new strategies and put their academic knowledge to use in the real world.

Scope of representation

The lawyer must agree to not charge a fee for the representation and must have malpractice insurance that covers that representation.

Scope of the student assistance

The law student is able to perform all reasonable law clerking duties such as research and drafting. Foreign language assistance may also be available. Student assistance will be available on a first come, first serve basis. Law students may only help with the pro bono case; they may not provide research on other cases. Law students will not receive payment or course credit for this work but can expect professional feedback and supervision from the pro bono attorney.

Duties

The attorney requesting assistance must agree to provide proper and timely supervision of the student including clarification of any issues or problems.

Students must agree to complete the tasks requested in a timely manner and to the best of their ability. In the event that a particular issue arises that is beyond the skill level of the student they are to discuss the matter immediately with the pro bono attorney.

The assistance provided by the student must be only for the pro bono matter in question.

At the conclusion of the case or the representation the student and the attorney must inform the USC School of Law Pro Bono Program and agree to complete a short survey.

How to Request Assistance?

Simply contact the USC School of Law Pro Bono Program by phone (803-777-3405) fax (803-777-6944), or email.