Frequently Asked Questions – Prosecution
Below you will find answers to many of the questions you may have about participating in the Prosecution Clinic.
- Who is eligible to participate in the Prosecution Clinic?
- What is the application process for the Prosecution Clinic?
- What is the student selection criteria for the Prosecution Clinic?
- How many students can enroll in the Prosecution Clinic?
- How many hours must student attorneys devote to the Prosecution Clinic for the semester?
- Are there any special scheduling requirements for the Prosecution Clinic?
- Are there any special costs associated with taking the Prosecution Clinic?
- What are the role and responsibilities of Prosecution Clinic students?
- How can I get answers to additional questions I have about the clinic?
Who is eligible to participate in the Prosecution Clinic?
The clinic is only open to third-year students who have completed/passed Legal Professions. Students will be sworn in as student attorneys per Louisiana Supreme Court Rule XX.
What is the application process for the Prosecution Clinic?
Students wishing to enroll in the Prosecution Clinic must apply through the common application process for all clinics and field placements. In the joint application, students will be asked to rank their clinic and field placement preferences, provide a resumé and answer questions regarding relevant experiences and interests in their selections. The online application form will be made available on the website once the application period opens. Please note that the application period begins and ends several weeks prior to the registration period for all other classes. As a result, interested students should plan ahead and keep an eye out for emails and announcements regarding the clinics and field placements application period each semester. A phone or in-person interview may be required depending on the number of applicants.
What is the student selection criteria for the Prosecution Clinic?
Although the high level of interest generally necessitates a competitive selection process, there is no set criteria for a successful candidate other than a demonstrated commitment to hard work and professionalism. In fact, clinic faculty make a concerted effort to select students with diverse experiences, backgrounds, perspectives and interests in order to create a rich learning experience for all participants. Selection is based on a review of all application documents, as well as a personal interview.
How many students can enroll in the Prosecution Clinic?
The clinic accepts a maximum of eight students each semester.
How many hours must students devote to the Prosecution Clinic for the semester?
Student attorneys are required to devote a minimum of 135 hours to the clinic. These hours are include training, classroom time, case work, and attending court. In order to track time spent on clinic activities, student attorneys are required to submit weekly written time sheets.
Are there any special scheduling requirements for the Prosecution Clinic?
Student attorneys must plan accordingly so that each student spends “a day” in the Office of the District Attorney. It is encouraged that this be done on either a Monday or Tuesday. An early morning class may be taken provided the student can be at the courthouse of Office of the District Attorney by about 9:00 am. The ending time may vary based on the number of cases on a given day. The weekly classroom component meets on Tuesdays from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and is held in the Office of the District Attorney. (Map) Student attorneys must also attend a pre-semester orientation.
Are there any special costs associated with taking the Prosecution Clinic?
The clinic provides student attorneys with the resources needed such as routine office supplies. However, student attorneys are responsible for their own travel to and from court and/or the district attorney’s office. Student attorneys are also responsible for paying for their parking. Various pay lots are available, and students can park at the parking garages located at the corner of Government and St. Louis for $3 per day.
What are the role and responsibilities of Prosecution Clinic students?
Accepted participants are designated as “special assistant district attorneys.” As such, students will be assigned to divisions within the Office of the District Attorney so that they begin to perform the role of ADA. The focus of work done by student attorneys is primarily associated with misdemeanor prosecutions (DWI, thefts, battery, possession of CDS/paraphernalia, etc.); however, students may have the opportunity to participate in many facets of litigation work that include some felony exposure. Student attorneys will also engage in pre-trial functions including, but not limited to, witness interviews, victim contact, defense negotiation, grand jury preparation, motion review, etc.
How can I get answers to additional questions I have about the clinic?
You can contact Assistant District Attorney Melanie Fields directly with questions at melanie.fields@ebrda.org.
