Students at
Thomas M. Cooley Law School aren’t just learning about law through books and lectures. In 2011, Cooley faculty and students gained experience in the real world through nearly 425,000 hours of free legal assistance
“This offers them real legal experience while they are still in school, which helps them develop the skills they need to be excellent practicing lawyers, and the experience they need to help them find employment,” says Amy Timmer, Associate Dean of Students and Professionalism for Thomas M. Cooley Law School. “That legal experience also teaches them to listen to and understand the needs of clients, and find a solution for the client.”
According to Timmer, the pro bono work also helps the future lawyers expand their professional networks and give them the chance to try out different law specialties. But the students’ commitment doesn’t end with the hours required by the school. Cooley students worked more than 23,000 hours beyond what was required for academic credit. They also make a pro bono pledge to continue their community service throughout their careers.
The pro bono work happens in clinics and externships in prosecutors' offices, public defenders' offices, judicial, government and various other legal services. Students also participate in some of the nine legal clinics operated by Cooley faculty. Those who benefit from the work include low-income tax payers, citizens over 60 years of age, soldiers of rank E-5 or lower, parents of children with learning disabilities and wrongfully convicted incarcerated persons who are innocent of the charged offense as established by DNA testing.
The free legal service provided by Cooley students and faculty would have a monetary value of more than $60 million if figured at an average hourly rate of $150.
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