With more than 60 first-generation college graduates currently earning their J.D. at the School of Law, we are pleased to share that 100% of them are receiving aid. This cohort is currently supported by more than 20 scholarship funds, including the First-Start Scholars Program established by 1982 alumna Kathelen V. Amos and the Daniel P. Amos Family Foundation.
Congratulations to Clinical Associate Professor Elizabeth M. Grant and Clinic Paralegal Jessie Des Jardines who have been named to the AALS Annual Pro Bono Honor Roll. The Association of American Law Schools honor roll recognizes "the pro bono work of individuals engaging in, expanding, and/or supporting their law school community in providing pro bono legal services." The pair's "tireless, long-standing work organizing the Athens Access to Justice Pop-up Clinics - events that law students attend regularly" - served as the basis for the nomination.
Congratulations to second-year students Paige M. Batten and Garfield A. McIntyre Jr. for winning the Intramural Mock Trial Competition. Many thanks to finalists Taylor L. Stablein and Mona E. Abboud, both second-year students, and the other competitors for contributing to a wonderful tournament.
Clinical Associate Professor & Jane W. Wilson Family Justice Clinic Director Christine M. Scartz offers insight on the upcoming U.S. Supreme Court case U.S. v. Rahimi: “The prohibition on firearms possession by those subject to civil protective orders filled an important gap for victims of domestic violence. Persons convicted of felonies and misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence are prohibited from the possession of firearms; however, for many victims, civil protective orders are the only court recognition of the dangerousness of their abusers. Victims deserve to be protected regardless of whether the criminal justice system is involved in and responsive to the violence in their lives.”
The School of Law participated in a pop-up legal clinic during October in Troup County that offered free civil legal advice and referrals to residents. Public Interest Practicum Director Elizabeth M. Grant, Wilson Family Justice Clinic Director Christine M. Scartz and Veterans Legal Clinic Director Alexander W. “Alex” Scherr participated in the event, providing consultation in numerous areas of the law. Second-year students John A. Omotunde and Thomas P. Crabb also participated in the event, giving advice to some participants and shadowing attorneys during the three-hour event.