University of Mississippi School of Law

Overview

The University of Mississippi School of Law, commonly referred to as Ole Miss Law, is a professional graduate law school of the University of Mississippi. Located in Oxford, Mississippi, the school offers a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program, as well as several joint degree programs and specialized certificates. Established in 1854, it is one of the oldest law schools in the United States and has a rich history of producing influential legal professionals.

History

The University of Mississippi School of Law was founded in 1854, making it one of the earliest established law schools in the Southern United States. The school initially offered a two-year program and was housed in various buildings on the university's main campus. Over the years, the curriculum expanded, and the program evolved to meet the changing needs of the legal profession.

In the early 20th century, the school underwent significant changes, including the introduction of a three-year curriculum and the establishment of a law library. The school continued to grow and develop, and in 1978, it moved to a new, state-of-the-art facility on the university's campus.

Academic Programs

The University of Mississippi School of Law offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the legal profession. The primary program is the Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, which is a three-year, full-time program. In addition to the J.D. program, the school offers several joint degree programs, including:

J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration)
J.D./M.Tax (Master of Taxation)
J.D./M.Accy (Master of Accountancy)

The school also offers specialized certificates in areas such as business law, criminal law, and environmental law. These certificates allow students to gain expertise in specific areas of legal practice and enhance their career prospects.

Faculty

The faculty at the University of Mississippi School of Law is composed of distinguished scholars and practitioners who are experts in their respective fields. The faculty members are dedicated to providing high-quality legal education and mentoring students. Many faculty members have published extensively in leading legal journals and have been recognized for their contributions to legal scholarship.

Clinical Programs and Externships

The University of Mississippi School of Law offers a variety of clinical programs and externships that provide students with hands-on experience in legal practice. These programs allow students to work on real cases under the supervision of experienced attorneys and gain practical skills that are essential for their future careers.

Some of the clinical programs offered include:

Civil Legal Clinic
Criminal Appeals Clinic
Child Advocacy Clinic
Transactional Clinic

Externships are available in various legal settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private law firms. These opportunities enable students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world legal issues and develop their professional networks.

Law Library

The University of Mississippi School of Law is home to the Grisham Law Library, which is named after the famous author and alumnus John Grisham. The library houses an extensive collection of legal materials, including books, journals, and electronic resources. It provides students and faculty with access to a wealth of information and research tools necessary for legal scholarship and practice.

The library also offers various services, such as research assistance, interlibrary loan, and access to specialized legal databases. The staff at the Grisham Law Library are experienced professionals who are dedicated to supporting the research needs of the law school community.

Student Organizations and Activities

The University of Mississippi School of Law has a vibrant student community with numerous organizations and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Some of the student organizations include:

Mississippi Law Journal
Moot Court Board
Student Bar Association
Black Law Students Association
Environmental Law Society

These organizations provide students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills, engage in public service, and network with peers and professionals. Additionally, the school hosts various events, such as guest lectures, panel discussions, and social gatherings, which enrich the student experience.

Alumni

The University of Mississippi School of Law has a strong network of alumni who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and society. Alumni of the school have gone on to hold prominent positions in government, judiciary, academia, and private practice. The school maintains close ties with its alumni and offers various programs and events to keep them engaged with the law school community.

Facilities

The University of Mississippi School of Law is housed in a modern facility that provides students with a conducive environment for learning and professional development. The building features state-of-the-art classrooms, moot courtrooms, and study spaces. Additionally, the school has a dedicated career services office that assists students with job placement and career planning.