Law Student Division Activities and Deadlines

Enhance Your Resume - Join the Law Student Division 2008-2009 Leadership
Represent law student interests on a national level. Consider running for or applying for one of the 70+ leadership positions available through the Law Student Division. Nominations and applications are now being accepted for the 2008-2009 National Officers, Circuit Governors, Entity Liaisons, National Student Directors, and Student Editor. Nomination deadlines begin: January 15, 2008. Tell me more about leadership in the ABA Law Student Division

Make Your Plans Now to Attend Your Circuit's Spring Meeting and Election
Each of the Law Student Division's 15 circuits hosts a Spring Meeting to include the election of the circuit governor. These Spring Meetings provide an opportunity for students to network, attend substantive programming and participate in the election of the circuit governor. If you are interested in becoming involved in the activities of the ABA Law Student Division, attending your circuit's Spring Meeting is the perfect venue for you to experience first-hand what the ABA Law Student Division can offer. Tell me more about the Circuit Spring Meetings and Elections

Tax Season is Around the Corner - Make Your VITA Plans Now
The ABA Law Student Division, in cooperation with the ABA Tax Section, supports the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program to assist low income taxpayers and provide tax counseling for the elderly. The ABA Law Student Division's VITA program is an independent operation from the IRS. Prior to and during the 2007 tax season, the IRS provides forms, technical assistance, and training for law students, alumni, professors and other volunteers at all levels of tax preparation experience, including those volunteers with no experience. Tell me more about VITA

ABA Midyear Meeting Offers Law Students
With a Variety of Quality Learning and Networking Opportunities
(February 6-12, 2008 - Los Angeles, CA)

Young Lawyers: The Next Generation
Friday, February 8, 2008 (12:30pm to 3:30pm)
Beverly Hilton Hotel, 9876 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA
Presented by the Young Lawyers Division and the Law Student Division
This young lawyer summit is designed to engage a critical discussion of new lawyer issues and define the next steps to ensure positive change in the legal profession. Featured topics include career management, work-life balances, law school debt, and how to prepare for the legal profession. Lunch will be provided. Tell me more about the Young Lawyers Summit

Deposition Workshop
Friday, February 8, 2008 (1:00pm-4:00pm)
Hotel InterContinental, 2151 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA
Presented by the Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section
Participating law students will receive intensive training on how to conduct depositions, including proper preparation strategies, questioning techniques, and the use of proper objections during depositions. It is a once-in-a-law-school opportunity to receive a bona fide professional skills training from practicing attorneys who are highly skilled in the craft of deposing witnesses. Don't miss this opportunity to prepare for your career as an attorney! Remember, seats are limited! RSVP to Linda Wiley at lmwiley@staff.abanet.org by January 15, 2008. Tell me more about the TIPS Deposition Workshop

Jena 6 CLE Programs and Reception
Friday, February 8, 2008 (1:00pm to 7:00pm)
Sofitel Hotel - Beverly Ballroom (2nd Floor), 8555 Beverly Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA
Presented by the Council on Racial and Ethnic Justice, Section of Criminal Justice, Section of State and Local Government Law, Section of Dispute Resolution, Section of Individual Rights/Responsibilities, and CLEO

Part I: Is Jena 6 the Tip of the Iceberg?
1:00pm to 3:00pm
A dynamic group of speakers will discuss crucial cutting-edge issues that are raised by the Jena 6 case e.g. Disparities in the Juvenile Justice System, Overrepresentation of Juveniles of Color in the System, Who's Responsible & Accountable?, What's the Role of the Media? Come and hear the perspectives of judges, media representatives, prosecutors, juvenile justice lawyers, and youth.

Part II: Re-Approaching Jena
3:00pm to 5:00pm
Don't miss this presentation of the Mediation in Criminal Matters Enterprise Fund project focusing on what lessons Jena has taught us and the lessons we can learn when addressing School Peer Mediation - Prosecutor, Police and School Board exercise of discretion and Restorative Justice.

Jointly Sponsored Reception
5:00pm to 7:00pm
Featuring the presentation of the CJS Frank Carrington Victims Award and a celebration of CLEO'S 40th Anniversary.

Spirit of Excellence Awards Luncheon
(Limited number of free tickets available for Law Students)
Saturday, February 9, 2008 (12:00 Noon to 2:00pm)
Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA
Presented by the Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession
The ABA Spirit of Excellence Awards are presented annually to lawyers and judges who work to promote a more racially and ethnically diverse legal profession. Frequently, sponsors of the event will donate seats at their tables and make them available to law students interested in attending. If you plan to be in Los Angeles on February 9 and would like the opportunity to attend the luncheon and share a table with some of the lawyers and judges in attendance, please contact Nicole Martinez at MartineN@staff.abanet.org or (312) 988-5638 and provide her with your contact information. Tickets will be assigned the week of January 28th. If you accept one of these complimentary tickets, you will be expected to attend. Tell me more about the Spirit of Excellence Award Luncheon

ABA Entities Offer Law Students Opportunities to
Build a Networking Base and a Strong Resume

Judicial Opportunities Internship Program - Section of Litigation
The Litigation Section internship program seeks to provide internship opportunities for minority or financially disadvantaged law students. The Judicial Intern Opportunity Program is a full-time, six-week minimum, summer internship program open to all first- or second-year minority and/or financially disadvantaged law students who want to do legal research and writing for state or federal judges in participating cities. Students may indicate geographic location preferences on their applications. Interns will receive an award of $1,500. Application deadline: January 18, 2008. Tell me more about the Judicial Opportunities Internship Program

The Steiger Fellowship - Section of Antitrust Law
The Janet D. Steiger Fellowship Project is a full-time, eight-week minimum, paid summer fellowship program open to all first- or second-year law students to work in the consumer protection department of state Offices of Attorneys General in 24 selected locations. Students may select geographic location preference on their applications. Application deadline: January 28, 2008. Tell me more about the Janet D. Steiger Fellowship Project

Diversity Clerkship Program - Section of Business Law
This clerkship program provides summer business law internship placements in Philadelphia, PA or Wilmington, DE to qualified first or second year law students. This program is designed to expose participants to essential business practices. In considering a student's eligibility, the Section will give special consideration to individuals who have overcome social or economic disadvantages such as physical disability, financial constraints, or cultural impediments to becoming a law student. Application deadline: January 31, 2008. Tell me more about the Diversity Clerkship Program

Fellowships in Environmental Law - Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources Law
You could qualify for an ABA Fellowship in Environmental Law during the summer of 2008. This Fellowship is designed to encourage disadvantaged or traditionally underrepresented law students to study and pursue careers in environmental law. Applications, deadlines and materials required for applying vary by state. Tell me more about Fellowships in Environmental Law

Domestic and International Internships - Rule of Law Initiative
Applications are now being taken by the ABA Rule of Law Initiative for domestic and international internships for Summer, 2008. Application deadline: February 15, 2008. Tell me more about the Rule of Law Internships

Why Antitrust? - Section of Antitrust Law
Bring the world of antitrust law and/or consumer protection to your law school. Examine what a career in this exciting field can mean to you and where you might find opportunities to prepare for your future career. The Section of Antitrust Law will visit your law school to present a forum for your student body that is usually a brown bag lunch featuring local practicing attorneys in the field of antitrust and/or consumer protection. Tell me more about the "Why Antitrust" Road Show

The Health Law Series - ABA Center for Continuing Legal Education, Section of Health Law and Young Lawyers Division
The Health Law Series provides the opportunity to learn the key basics of health care law. Law students can get a grasp on health care law by listening to the Fundamentals Teleconference Series. Discount tuition rates are available for law students. Tell me more about this year's Health Law curriculum

Pathways to Employment in International Law - Section of International Law
In the coming year, the Section of International Law has 35 Pathways Programs scheduled in cities that include New Haven, Connecticut; Los Angeles, California; New York, New York; and Seattle, Washington. We are hoping to add many more law schools to our national tour! If you are interested in attending a program or hosting one at your law school, please contact Angela Benson at bensona@staff.abanet.org or (202) 662-1664. Tell me more about International Law's Road Show

Calling All Writers! - GP|Solo Law Student Newsletter COMING SOON!
General Practice, Solo and Small Firm Division
The GP|Solo Division is looking for law students and young lawyers who have a way with words and think they might have something to share with the 17,000 other law students in GP|Solo. The Division knows (from first-hand experience!) how busy law students are and how much you already have to read. That's why this newsletter will feature short, interesting pieces (no more than 500 words), and even simple bulleted lists and top-ten lists. If you want to write an article or get involved (and we know you do), then just shoot an email to Alan Fowler (alan@fowler.org).

Writing Competitions Offer More Than a Little Extra Cash

Section of Business Law
Mendes Hershman Student Writing Contest
Award: $2,500, travel and lodging to attend the ABA Annual Meeting; possible publication in The Business Lawyer. Entry deadline: January 4, 2008. Tell me more about the Mendes Hershman Student Writing Contest

Section of Antitrust Law
10th Annual Writing Competition
Award: The first-place award includes an announcement of winner in Antitrust Magazine, a $2,000 honorarium, airfare (if applicable), hotel for three nights, and three days' expenses to attend the 56th Antitrust Law Spring Meeting, March 26-28, 2008 at the JW Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC. Paper submission deadline: January 28, 2008. Tell me more about the Antitrust Writing Competition

Standing Committee on Lawyers' Professional Liability and
the law firm of Long & Levit LLP
2008 Bert W. Levit Essay Contest
Award: $5,000 plus an expense-paid trip to the Spring 2008 National Conference. Postmark entry deadline: February 22, 2008. Entrants must be a member of the ABA Law Student Division or Young Lawyers Division as of February 1, 2008 to be eligible. Tell me more about the Levit Essay Contest

Section of Science and Technology Law
Student Writing Contest
The ABA Section of Science & Technology Law presents a new Law Student Writing Contest addressing the internet and current privacy laws. The winner will receive a trip to the ABA Annual Meeting in New York City and may have his/her submission published in The SciTech Lawyer. Submission deadline: March 1, 2008. Winners will be notified by June 1, 2008. Tell me more about the Sci/Tech Writing Contest

Commission on Domestic Violence
5th Annual Law Student Writing Competition
The 5th Annual Law Student Writing Competition is made possible by the generous support of Lois Beekman Oliviera. Law students are invited to submit articles addressing domestic violence and the law from a national or international perspective. Submission deadline: March 28, 2008. Tell me more about the Domestic Violence Writing Competition

Section of Administrative Law and Regulatory Practice
Gellhorn-Sargentich Law Student Essay Contest
Award: $500 cash prize and round-trip airfare and accommodation to attend the Section's Fall Conference in Washington, DC and possible publication in Administrative and Regulatory Law News. Entry deadline: March 31, 2008. Tell me more about the Gellhorn-Sargentich Law Student Essay Contest

Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources Law (ABA-SEER), The Environmental Law Institute (ELI), and the National Association of Environmental Law Societies (NAELS)
3rd Annual "Endangered Environmental Laws" Student Writing Competition
Topic: Any topic addressing recent developments or trends in U.S. environmental law that have a significant constitutional or "federalism" component.
The Constitution has long been interpreted by the courts and understood by most Americans to support comprehensive environmental protections. However, arguments targeting the constitutional legitimacy of environmental laws are gaining new traction in the federal courts. To inform the debate, we invite law students to submit papers exploring current issues of constitutional environmental law. Award: $2,000 cash prize and offer of publication in ELI's Environmental Law Reporter (ELR). Entry deadline: April 4, 2008-5:00 PM ET. Tell me more about the Environmental Law Writing Contest

January 2008

Division Activities and Deadlines

Enhance Your Resume - Join the Law Student Division 2008-2009 Leadership
Represent law student interests on a national level. Consider running or applying for one of the 70+ leadership positions available through the Law Student Division. Nominations and applications are now being accepted for the 2008-2009 National Officers, Circuit Governors, Entity Liaisons, National Student Directors, and Student Editor. Nomination deadlines begin: January 15, 2008. Tell me more about leadership in the ABA Law Student Division

Make Your Plans Now to Attend Your Circuit's Spring Meeting and Election
Each of the Law Student Division's 15 circuits hosts a Spring Meeting that includes the election of the circuit governor. These Spring Meetings provide an opportunity for students to network, attend substantive programming and participate in the election of the circuit governor. If you are interested in becoming involved in the activities of the ABA Law Student Division, attending your circuit's Spring Meeting is the perfect venue for you to experience first-hand what the ABA Law Student Division can offer. Tell me more about the Circuit Spring Meetings and Elections

Now Available Online – National Award Nomination Forms
The Law Student Division presents national awards to ABA-approved law schools, their students and student organizations. Awards include Diversity, Public Interest, Student Bar Associations, Student Bar Association Presidents, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, Membership and Activity, and Law School News Publications. Nomination Deadline: April 1, 2008. Tell me more about the Law Student Division's National Awards Program

ABA Midyear Meeting Offers Law Students
a Variety of Quality Learning and Networking Opportunities
(February 6-12, 2008 – Los Angeles, CA)

ABA Section of Science and Technology Law Lunch & Learn Program
Wednesday, February 6 (12:00 Noon-1:00pm)
University of California-Los Angeles-School of Law, 45 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles, CA
Presented by the Section of Science and Technology Law
Learn from a panel of seasoned attorneys who represent various career paths as they provide law students with insights into the practice of science and technology law. This program promises to be engaging and panelists will answer questions about strategies for accomplishing your career and networking goals. RSVP before January 30 to Maria Gamboa at gamboam@staff.abanet.org.

You're Hired! Tips on Securing a Job in State and Local Government Law
Thursday, February 7, 2008 (4:00pm to 6:00pm)
Beverly Hilton Hotel, 9876 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA
Presented by the Section of State and Local Government Law, Government and Public Sector Lawyers Division, Law Student Division and the Young Lawyers Division
Get the inside scoop on recruiting and hiring in State and Local Government. As one of the most diverse legal practice areas, the broad cross-section of legal disciplines includes land use, government operations and liability, public finance, environmental law, and homeland security and emergency management, to name a few. You will enjoy interacting with young lawyers and seasoned practicing attorneys to learn those secrets to successfully attaining that plum State and Local Government position, whether it is for a government entity or a law firm. A networking reception will immediately follow the program.

Young Lawyers: The Next Generation
Friday, February 8, 2008 (12:30pm to 3:30pm)
Beverly Hilton Hotel, 9876 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA
Presented by the Young Lawyers Division and the Law Student Division
This young lawyer summit is designed to engage a critical discussion of new lawyer issues and define the next steps to ensure positive change in the legal profession. Featured topics include career management, work-life balances, law school debt, and how to prepare for the legal profession. Lunch will be provided. Tell me more about the Young Lawyer Summit http://www.abanet.org/yld/summits/ylsummit.html

Deposition Workshop
February 8, 2008 (1:00pm-4:00pm)
Hotel InterContinental, 2151 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA
Presented by the Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section
Participating law students will receive intensive training on how to conduct depositions, including proper preparation strategies, questioning techniques, and the use of proper objections during depositions. It is a unique opportunity to receive a bona fide professional skills training from practicing attorneys who are highly skilled in the craft of deposing witnesses. Don't miss this opportunity to prepare for your career as an attorney! Remember, seats are limited! RSVP to Linda Wiley at lmwiley@staff.abanet.org by January 15, 2008. Tell me more about the TIPS Deposition Workshop

Jena 6 CLE Programs and Reception
Friday, February 8, 2008 (1:00pm to 7:00pm)
Sofitel Hotel – Beverly Ballroom (2nd Floor), 8555 Beverly Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA
Presented by the Council on Racial and Ethnic Justice, Section of Criminal Justice, Section of State and Local Government Law, Section of Dispute Resolution, Section of Individual Rights/Responsibilities, and CLEO

• Part I: Is Jena 6 the Tip of the Iceberg?
  1:00pm to 3:00pm
  A dynamic group of speakers will discuss crucial cutting-edge issues that are raised by the Jena 6 case e.g. Disparities in the Juvenile Justice System, Overrepresentation of Juveniles of Color in the System, Who's Responsible & Accountable?, What's the Role of the Media? Come and hear the perspectives of judges, media representatives, prosecutors, juvenile justice lawyers, and youth.
• Part II: Re-Approaching Jena
  3:00pm to 5:00pm
  Don't miss this presentation of the Mediation in Criminal Matters Enterprise Fund project focusing on what lessons Jena has taught us and the lessons we can learn when addressing School Peer Mediation - Prosecutor, Police and School Board exercise of discretion and Restorative Justice.
• Jointly Sponsored Reception
  5:00pm to 7:00pm
  Featuring the presentation of the CJS Frank Carrington Victims Award and a celebration of CLEO'S 40th Anniversary

Spirit of Excellence Awards Luncheon
(Limited number of free tickets available for Law Students)
Saturday, February 9, 2008 (12:00 Noon to 2:00pm)
Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA
Presented by the Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession
The ABA Spirit of Excellence Awards are presented annually to lawyers and judges who work to promote a more racially and ethnically diverse legal profession. Frequently, sponsors of the event will donate seats at their tables and make them available to law students interested in attending. If you would like to attend the luncheon and share a table with lawyers and judges, please contact Nicole Martinez at MartineN@staff.abanet.org or (312) 988-5638 and provide her with your contact information. Tickets will be assigned the week of January 28th. If you accept one of these complimentary tickets, you will be expected to attend. Tell me more about the Spirit of Excellence Award Luncheon

For more information about the ABA Midyear Meeting, including schedules and registration forms, visit the ABA website at: http://www.abanet.org/midyear/2008/

ABA Entities Offer Law Students Opportunities to
Build a Networking Base and a Strong Resume

Two Law Student Volunteers Sought – Section of Science and Technology Law
Public Health, Environmental Law and Preparedness Committee
Two law student volunteers are needed to create an index of law school journals that address public health, environmental law or preparedness in technology. This is a four to six week assignment beginning on February 1. For more information, contact Julia Gillespie with the Section of Science and Technology Law at gillespj@staff.abanet.org. Application deadline: January 14, 2008. Tell me more about the Public Health Committee

Law Student Vice-Chair Positions
ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section (TIPS)
Law student leadership in TIPS provides an opportunity to meet and work with trial attorneys, enhance your résumé, and write for national publications. Note: The TIPS Vice-Chair program is an independent program of that ABA section and is not associated with the ABA Law Student Division Liaison program. Application deadline for a position as a 2008-09 TIPS Law Student Vice-Chair: January 15, 2008. Terms begin September 1, 2008 through August 31, 2009. Tell me more about TIPS Vice-Chair Positions

Emerging Issues Conference – Section of Health Law
February 20-23, 2008 – San Diego, CA
The Emerging Issues Conference is a great opportunity for law students to network and learn about the hottest topics in health law. The winner of the Health Law Student Writing Competition will be recognized at this meeting. Discounted registration fee for law students: $75. Tell me more about the Health Law Emerging Issues Conference

1st Annual National Institute Series on Legal Writing – ABA Center for Continuing Legal Education March 21 (Chicago) – April 18 (Atlanta) – May 16 (Los Angeles)
Renowned legal writing instructor Gary Kinder teaches lawyers around the country how to do what he does so well: write precisely, vividly, and memorably. One of the nation's most highly recommended CLEs, his program for litigators has evolved into an all-day presentation of advanced writing techniques that is perfect for young attorneys. Tell me more about the National Institute on Legal Writing

Judicial Opportunities Internship Program – Section of Litigation
The Litigation Section internship program seeks to provide internship opportunities for minority or financially disadvantaged law students. The Judicial Intern Opportunity Program is a full-time, six-week minimum, summer internship program open to all first- or second-year minority and/or financially disadvantaged law students who want to do legal research and writing for state or federal judges in participating cities. Students may indicate geographic location preferences on their applications. Interns will receive an award of $1,500. Application deadline: January 18, 2008. Tell me more about the Janet D. Steiger Fellowship Project

Diversity Clerkship Program – Section of Business Law
The Section of Business Law is accepting applications for the Business Law Diversity Clerkship Program. These clerkship opportunities are aimed at qualified minority or otherwise disadvantaged candidates. Up to nine interns will be placed in business court clerkships in the Philadelphia Commerce Court or the Delaware Court of Chancery. Interns will also be given a stipend of $6,000. Application deadline: January 31, 2008. Tell me more about the Diversity Clerkship Program

Domestic and International Internships – Rule of Law Initiative
Applications are now being taken by the ABA Rule of Law Initiative for domestic and international internships for Summer, 2008. Application deadline: February 15, 2008. Tell me more about the Rule of Law Internships

Writing Competitions Offer More Than a Little Extra Cash

Section of Antitrust Law
10th Annual Writing Competition
Award: The first-place award includes an announcement of the winner in Antitrust Magazine, a $2,000 honorarium, airfare (if applicable), hotel for three nights, and three days' expenses to attend the 56th Antitrust Law Spring Meeting, March 26-28, 2008 at the JW Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC. Paper submission deadline: January 28, 2008. Tell me more about the Antitrust Writing Competition

Standing Committee on Lawyers' Professional Liability and the law firm of Long & Levit LLP 2008 Bert W. Levit Essay Contest
Test your legal-writing mettle and go for the gold in the Levit Essay Contest on lawyers' professional liability subjects. Award: $5,000 plus an expense-paid trip to the Spring 2008 National Malpractice Conference in Boston. Postmark entry deadline: February 22, 2008. Entrants must be a member of the ABA Law Student Division or Young Lawyers Division as of February 1, 2008 to be eligible. Tell me more about the Levit Essay Contest.

Section of Science and Technology Law
Student Writing Contest
The ABA Section of Science & Technology Law presents a new Law Student Writing Contest addressing the internet and current privacy laws. The winner will receive a trip to the ABA Annual Meeting in New York City and may have his or her submission published in The SciTech Lawyer. Submission deadline: March 1, 2008. Winners will be notified by June 1, 2008. Tell me more about the Sci/Tech Writing Contest.

Commission on Domestic Violence
5th Annual Law Student Writing Competition
The 5th Annual Law Student Writing Competition is made possible by the generous support of Lois Beekman Oliviera. Law students are invited to submit articles addressing domestic violence and the law from a national or international perspective. Submission deadline: March 28, 2008. Tell me more about the Domestic Violence Writing Competition

Section of Administrative Law and Regulatory Practice
Gellhorn-Sargentich Law Student Essay Contest
Award: $500 cash prize and round-trip airfare and accommodation to attend the Section's Fall Conference in Washington, DC and possible publication in Administrative and Regulatory Law News. Entry deadline: March 31, 2008. Tell me more about the Gellhorn-Sargentich Law Student Essay Contest

Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources (ABA-SEER), The Environmental Law Institute (ELI), and the National Association of Environmental Law Societies (NAELS)
3rd Annual "Endangered Environmental Laws" Student Writing Competition
Topic: Any topic addressing recent developments or trends in U.S. environmental law that have a significant constitutional or "federalism" component. The Constitution has long been interpreted by the courts and understood by most Americans to support comprehensive environmental protections. However, arguments targeting the constitutional legitimacy of environmental laws are gaining new traction in the federal courts. To inform the debate, we invite law students to submit papers exploring current issues of constitutional environmental law. Award: $2,000 cash prize and offer of publication in ELI's Environmental Law Reporter (ELR). Entry deadline: April 4, 2008-5:00 PM ET. Tell me more about the Environmental Law Writing Contest

For more information about the American Bar Association and the Law Student Division, visit http://www.abanet.org.