What do we do?
In a nutshell, we're all about encouraging UHLC
students to pursue careers in public interest law. We do that several
ways, from sponsoring guest speakers, to
awarding our very own scholarships, to
hosting a week-long public interest career fair
every spring. Check out some of our upcoming
events. Everything
we do is designed to put students right up close to the public interest
law
stage - and our members get the best seat in the house. You can find
out
more about what we do by checking out the links on the left.
What is Public Interest Law?
The term "public interest law" is a very big
umbrella. Lawyers can serve the public by working for the government,
representing clients
at legal aid societies, lobbying Congress for non-profit organizations,
serving
as in-house counsel for grassroots organizations, and more. Public
interest
lawyers practice virtually every kind of law: from criminal
defense/prosecution, to administrative law, to creating policy or
legislation, even civil litigation.
So, why the label? If a public interest lawyer can
do it all, what separates him or her from any other practitioner? The
answer is simple: the public interest lawyer serves an interest of the
public. Not just one client, but an entire cause.
To see what we mean, check out the five major categories of public interest law
careers. Chances are, you'll find the type of law you want to
practice!
What's your issue?
Do you have a "cause"? You wouldn't believe just
how many different social and political issues there are today that
allow public interest lawyers to put their careers to worthwhile use.
Are you concerned about the environment? Crime? Civil liberties?
Abortion? Media ownership? Child abuse? What are your thoughts on the
drug war? Computer voting? Gun control? Consumer privacy? Campaign
financing?
Search "public" firms at the NALP website
for some insight into just how many opportunities exist in the vast
arena of public interest law. You might be surprised. And if you don't
see an organization that matches your issue, perhaps Equal Justice
Works, our national organization, can help you start one of your own.
Curious? Be sure to contact
a PILO officer about becoming a PILO
member. Everyone is welcome, and there's no commitment required.
We'd love to have you.
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