During the second and third years, a student may undertake independent research projects in areas of law in which the student has a particular interest. Such projects require intensive research and the completion of a major piece of legal writing. The experience includes close work with a faculty sponsor who provides supervision in both the research and writing stages. This opportunity is available to JD and MELP students. Students should obtain a faculty sponsor prior to the beginning of the semester in which they plan to undertake an independent research project. Faculty accept a limited number of independent research projects each semester, usually on a first-come, first-served basis. Adjunct Professors do not normally supervise independent research projects. A student must obtain approval in advance in writing from the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs for an Adjunct Professor to act as faculty sponsor. Individuals who do not have faculty status at VLS will not be approved as independent research sponsors.Students must follow the guidelines for Independent Research Projects contained in the Academic Regulations of Vermont Law School (also listed in the Student Handbook). Signed contracts are due in the Office of the Registrar on the last day of add/drop of the Spring Semester.