Work alongside an assistant U.S. attorney in the Civil Division of the United States Attorney’s Office as they defend the government in civil litigation or bring lawsuits on its behalf. In this clinic, you’ll help handle a wide variety of matters that fall within the jurisdiction of the Civil Division, such as immunity defenses, government enforcement actions, and civil rights litigation.
Real Life. Real Law. What You’ll Do.
While each clinic placement is unique, here are some of what you can expect to be involved in.
Litigation-related research
Prepare memoranda
Draft arguments included in briefs
Assist in discovery
Observe or assist in court
General office work
Where You’ll Work
You’ll work in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Boston under the supervision of a designated assistant U.S. attorney and experience firsthand what it’s like to be a litigation attorney.
Seminar & Clinic Details
The Seminar
You’ll meet in a weekly seminar with the course instructor and/or the clinical director to explore the relationship between the principles covered in the federal courts class and your fieldwork; these include justiciability and immunity defenses, government enforcement actions, and civil rights litigation. You’ll also submit weekly journals, describing and reflecting on your field experiences.
Fieldwork
You’ll work 15 hours each week in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, which only accepts law students for this clinic.
Requirements
This course satisfies New England Law’s experiential education requirement. Eligibility for this course is dependent on successful completion of a background check.
Stories of Success
“Choosing a law school with a part-time program enabled me to pursue my dream of becoming an attorney and provided the flexibility to build my Résumé through full-time internships, clinics, and employment.”
“I was able to experience what life is really like as counsel for an international corporation.”
“Our graduates stay, grow their careers, and help build our communities. We’re woven into the fabric of New England.”
“There are hundreds of law schools to choose from, but very few of them leave the impression New England Law does on its students.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I take this clinic?
You’re eligible to take this seminar and clinic or another in your second year. You may take up to four clinics before you graduate.
What does this course entail?
You must work 15 hours a week in the Civil Division in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, submit a weekly journal reflecting on your experiences, and share them in a weekly seminar with the course instructor and/or the clinical director.
Does this course satisfy the experiential education requirement?
Yes, it satisfies New England Law’s experiential education requirement.
Are there other requirements for this clinic I should know about?
Yes, you must complete a background check.
Related Clinics, Concentrations, and Experiences
Contact Us
New England Law Admissions staff is here to help you through the application process. If you have any questions, please complete the form below or contact the Office of Admissions at admit@nesl.edu or call 617-422-7210.