At the Center for Business Law
New England Law’s hub for research, thought leadership, and experiential learning in business law. At the Center, you will see how the legal and business worlds connect, explore emerging issues, and gain resume-building experience by learning from and working with some of this field’s top experts.
Tackle Emerging Issues
Understand the multi-faceted arena of business law as you explore its evolving issues, including:
Compliance
Commercial law
Corporate governance
Securities practice
Federal tax planning and practice
Intellectual property protection
Estate planning
Health law
Sports law
Real-World Experiences
Through placements ranging from small law firms to large publicly held corporations and government agencies, you’ll gain hands-on experience in business litigation, transactional practice, compliance work, and more.
Networking Opportunities
From our annual Commercial Law Conference, where some of the foremost business law scholars weigh in on important issues, to expert panels and colloquia on hot-button issues, the center provides ample opportunities for you to engage with future employers and other legal leaders.
Unique Compliance Law Focus
One of the few law schools in the country to focus on the growing field of compliance law, the Center offers you multiple options to learn about and get involved in this fast-growing field, including internships, programs, and a Compliance Advisory Council of knowledgeable practitioners.
Public Service Projects
Participate in business-related pro bono projects and other volunteer work on behalf of nonprofits. You’ll give back while gaining client-facing experience. One such initiative popular with students is the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, which provides free tax return preparation assistance to those in need (in conjunction with national program).
Moot Court/Mock Trial Participation
Sharpen your research, presentation, and litigation skills—and demonstrate those skills to potential employers—as a member of a moot court/mock trial team. Coached by faculty members, these teams compete at such events as the National Tax Moot Court Competition and the Giles Sutherland Rich Memorial Moot Court Competition in intellectual property law. Learn more >
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.”
Center for Business Law Faculty
Faculty members have a range of experience in diverse areas, including corporate and securities law, intellectual property, tax policy, sports law, and commercial litigation. Their professional backgrounds at law firms, in the federal and state judiciaries, as sole practitioners, and in corporate settings provide a deep well of real-world experience to share with students.
Professor Gary M. Bishop
A former law firm associate and clerk at the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, Professor Bishop oversees the Legal Research and Writing Program. His research interests include contract theory and the scope of enforceable obligations.
Associate Dean and Professor Allison M. Dussias
Associate Dean and Professor Dussias researches and publishes extensively on American Indian law, including tribal environmental regulation and religious freedom. Previously, she practiced corporate and securities law.
Professor Kent D. Schenkel
Professor Schenkel, who practiced estate planning and administration as a board-certified specialist, writes about wills, trusts, estates, and federal tax law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about becoming a business lawyer?
The field of business law is diverse, multifaceted and ripe with opportunities. Read this to learn more about becoming a business lawyer.
How can the Center for Business Law help me become the lawyer I want to be?
By connecting you to the leading edge of business law theory and practice, while giving you opportunities to engage with current legal issues and build experience that strengthens your résumé. It is a strong way to deepen your knowledge, explore your interests, and prepare for a career in business law.
What other hands-on opportunities does the center provide?
There is a summer fellowship program designed for first-year students, along with clinics and externships where you will represent real clients under supervision. Additionally, you can participate in moot court and mock trial teams. You also have the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students and faculty on the annual Commercial Law Conference, where you will meet practicing business lawyers and judges.
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.