The Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic offers a number of courses designed to prepare law students for the fields of military law and veterans law. These courses provide students with comprehensive training and practical experience in these specialized areas of law, furthering our commitment to serving those who have served our country.
With these course offerings the Clinic is not only providing students with a more comprehensive education in military and veterans law but also equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel as practicing attorneys. Our commitment to serving veterans remains unwavering, and we are proud to play a role in preparing the next generation of leaders in military and veterans law. Whether students aspire to work as advocates for veterans’ rights, counsel for military personnel, or policymakers shaping the future of military and veterans affairs, the Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic is dedicated to providing them with the tools they need to succeed as we embark on this exciting new chapter in our journey to make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families. These courses are taught by experienced attorneys in the Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic:
- Veterans Law (2 credits)
- Veterans Clinic (4 credits)
- Advanced Veterans Clinic (1 – 4 credits)
- Military Justice (3 credits)
- Law of War (3 credits)
VETERANS LAW (2 CREDITS)
Our doctrinal course in Veterans Law is available to all students in the law school and will not require the student to manage a client file. Instead, it is a fully classroom experience that will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework governing veterans’ benefits and services. Students will study statutes, regulations, and case law related to disability compensation, pension benefits, and healthcare services for veterans. This course prepares students to advocate effectively on behalf of veterans and ensure they receive the benefits and support they deserve.
VETERANS CLINIC (4 CREDITS)
Our flagship course, the Veterans Clinic, stands a cornerstone of our program, offering students a unique opportunity to engage with real veteran clients and gain hands-on experience in managing client files, communicating effectively with clients and navigating the complexities of veterans law. Building upon the success of the Veterans Clinic, starting next semester, we have broadened our curriculum to encompass a wider range of topics relevant to military and veterans law.
Student work is done at the Regional Office and the Board of Veterans’ Appeals levels, the Court of Appeals for Veterans’ Claims, and various federal courts. Students are supervised by an experienced attorney at each step and have the opportunity to work in a law firm atmosphere within the law school serving real client needs. Law students interested in personal injury, civil litigation or administrative law will benefit from the skills taught in this clinic.
The Veterans Clinic course includes a weekly lecture on the substantive law relating to veterans’ benefits, followed by work with the actual veteran files. Students have the opportunity to:
- Interview clients, witnesses and medical personnel.
- Research and develop the law and facts of the case, draft documents and prepare briefs
- Interact with other practitioners in the area of federal veterans law, thereby encouraging networking developments.
The Veterans Clinic is designed to teach a host of practical skills, including law firm and time management, client interviewing and counseling, problem-solving, legal theory development, data collection, witness statements, medical records analysis and appellate brief writing. Importantly, the clinic highlights the importance of pro bono work in a lawyer’s professional life while serving the needs of our veterans on behalf of a grateful nation.
The Veterans Clinic also participates in high-level amicus briefing, event planning, rural veteran outreach initiatives, presentations, and more. Students taking the Clinic as a class can anticipate assisting staff in all area of Clinic business.
In addition to the two hours of classroom education per week, students can expect to work roughly 11 hours per week outside of class on Clinic business for a rough total of 150 hours.
Veterans Clinic students are supervised by experienced attorneys and staff within the Clinic. Students can expect to meet with supervising attorneys weekly.
ADVANCED VETERANS CLINIC (1 – 4 CREDITS)
For students who have already completed the Veterans Clinic and want to further hone their skills, the Clinic offers Advanced Veterans Clinic. This course offers experienced students the chance to continue working on client files at an increased level of responsibility under experienced attorneys’ guidance. This experience further deepens their expertise in veterans law and enhances their practical skills.
MILITARY JUSTICE (3 CREDITS)
Military Justice delves into the legal framework governing the armed forces. Students will explore topics such as military justice, administrative law, and the rights and responsibilities of service members. This course provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing careers in military justice or advising military clients.
LAW OF WAR (3 CREDITS)
The Clinic offers Law of War which examines the legal principles governing armed conflict and humanitarian law. Students will explore international law pertaining to armed conflict, including the Geneva and Hague Conventions and customary international law. This course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern warfare and contribute meaningfully to discussions on human rights and conflict resolution.