What do students do in this clinic?
The clinic handles large federal court litigation on behalf of Indian tribes. It also drafts amicus briefs to the U.S. Supreme Court and federal appellate courts in Native law cases. Students are assigned one or more litigation matters to work on in teams based on their skills and the learning objectives they develop for themselves. Students projects include legal research and writing appellate briefs, gathering and reviewing factual information from clients and historical sources, drafting pleadings (e.g., complaint), drafting and responding to discovery requests, working with expert witnesses, researching and writing motions, and assisting in deposition and trial preparation.
FAQ
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What happens in the classroom component?
Updates, discussion, and strategy of ongoing case work. -
What do students learn in this clinic?
The skills necessary to handle large federal court litigation, including: historical and archival research; fact investigation; large-scale case management; federal civil procedure practice; legal strategy; expert witness selection, consultation, and preparation; legal research; and drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs.
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When is this clinic offered?
Every fall, spring, and summer. Students who are interested in the clinic must contact Professor Routel and get consent of instructor to enroll.
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How many credits?
Students must take the clinic for a minimum of four credits and may enroll for up to 15 credits per semester.
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Are students permitted or encouraged to take this clinic for additional semesters?
Students are encouraged to continue in subsequent semesters (which need not be continuous), but is not required.
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Are there any required or recommended pre-requisites?
Federal Indian Law is a prerequisite, but it can be waived by consent of the instructor.
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Can students with full-time jobs take this clinic?
Yes -
Can students who live outside the Twin Cities take this clinic?
Yes -
Who should take this clinic?
Anyone interested in working in the area of Federal Indian Law, as well as students interested in this area who want to develop complex litigation skills.
Faculty and Staff
