Overview
National Authorities Teach Students to Litigate and Win Important Environmental Cases
Vermont Law School's Environmental and Natural Resources Law Clinic (ENRLC) is headed by two nationally respected environmental litigators, Patrick Parenteau and David Mears. Students have opportunities to work with some of the leading public interest lawyers in New England and throughout the country.
The clinic's powerful and effective advocacy has produced significant accomplishments and raised visibility for people, flora and fauna, and the environment, including winning a major victory for the endangered gray wolf; protecting wetlands and tributaries; standing up for the health of individuals threatened by the mining operations of a major, multi-national company; and defending a sacred tribal site.
Qualified students seeking to sharpen their research, advocacy and litigation skills, while advancing the goals of environmental protection, may enroll in the ENRLC. The clinic builds on our expertise in environmental and natural resources law and our extensive connections throughout the local, regional, and national conservation communities. Student clinicians work on behalf of public interest, environmental, and conservation organizations, and learn how to find their way through the complex maze of laws and procedures that regulate economic development and resource extraction activities.
Projects
Projects are provided by state, regional, and national organizations, and community groups in need of competent, creative legal assistance on significant environmental problems. While learning the craft of lawyering, students are also encouraged to explore the ethical aspects of practicing law, and evaluate alternative approaches to resolving environmental conflicts. The goal of the clinical experience is to develop well-rounded professionals with a high degree of skill and judgment grounded in respect for the environment and the rule of law.
Structure
The clinic provides four credits in the fall and spring semesters. Projects are developed by the clinic director and assistant director. Every effort will be made to match student interests with available projects. Work plans and schedules are developed for each project. Weekly meetings are used to discuss case progress, substantive issues, research strategies, professional and ethical considerations, client relations, media relations, and other issues.
The clinic's collegial atmosphere provides ample opportunity for interaction and feedback among students and faculty. Members of the larger VLS faculty and staff are consulted and share their expertise in projects as appropriate.
For more information, please contact Professor Mears or Professor Parenteau.
For information about the LLM Clinical Fellowship, click here.
