About the clinic program

Our clinical program is ranked in the top 25 nationally by U.S. News and World Report. Here’s why:

• We allow students to choose from a wide range of experiences, including litigation, transactional practice, and appellate advocacy, in state, federal, and international forums.
• Our faculty are experienced lawyers, creative teachers, and supportive mentors, recognized nationally for their skill and impact.

Approach

Seattle U Law’s clinic program is renowned and well-respected in part for the combination of student responsibility and faculty support that is the hallmark of the clinic experience we offer to our students.

• Students assume primary responsibility for all legal work and client interactions
• Students perform a variety important functions:
  • Conduct interviews
  • Prepare documents
  • Examine witnesses
  • Address judges, opposing counsel, and other decision makers
• Faculty play a supportive and facilitative role in the clinic

About the clinic’s namesake

Seattle U Law’s clinic is named for Ronald A. Peterson, a former member of the university’s faculty for nearly 35 years who passed away in 1998. An attorney by training, he was the first to propose the establishment of a law school at Seattle University. Considered a campus pioneer, he founded the admissions, alumni, and college relations programs and held many teaching and administrative positions during his tenure. He taught in the History Department, the Albers School of Business and Economics, and the Legal Studies Program.