About the ENRLC
ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES LAW CLINIC
The Environmental and Natural Resources Law Clinic at Vermont Law School opened its doors to students and clients in August 2003 with a generous grant from the Henry Luce Foundation. The clinic offers Vermont Law School students the exceptional opportunity to become “apprentice lawyers” and to apply what they learn in the classroom to real problems on behalf of real clients in cases with real consequences.
Our clients are state, regional, and national organizations and community groups facing significant environmental problems in need of competent, creative, legal assistance. The clinic selects cases based on a number of criteria, three of which are most important. First, the case must provide a rich learning experience—that is, a case that allows students to take charge of key elements, to develop the facts and law, and to advise and represent clients in a variety of legal settings. Second, the case should present an opportunity to serve clients who would not otherwise be able to afford legal representation. And third, the case must afford an opportunity to resolve environmental problems, protect public health, and conserve important natural resources.
In the fall or spring semesters, student clinicians earn six credits for part-time enrollment or thirteen credits for full-time enrollment. In the summer, students can enroll in the clinic for nine credits toward their JD or MELP. Summer clerkships are also available. In the course of their work in the clinic, student clinicians develop work plans and schedules for each case. Weekly meetings are used to discuss case progress, substantive issues, research strategies, professional and ethical considerations, client relations, media relations and other issues. In addition, student clinicians participate in weekly seminar meetings where they deepen their knowledge of environmental law and gain practice pointers. While learning the lawyering craft, students are also encouraged to explore the ethical aspects of practicing law and to evaluate alternative approaches to resolving environmental conflicts. The clinical experience develops well-rounded professionals with a high degree of skill and judgment, grounded in respect for the environment and the rule of law.
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