"The Importance of Theory in the Law School Classroom and in the Practice of Law"
August 9, 2017: New England Law | Boston is excited to host an afternoon of robust conversation regarding the value of legal theory in modern legal education and practice. The event, to be held Thursday, September 14, 2017, is open to the public, though advance registration is requested.
The legal profession is undergoing profound changes. Law schools have been responding to the changing world of law practice with a push toward making graduates more practice ready than ever before. Most schools now offer a variety of clinical programs, internships, and summer work opportunities. In this context, we will join together for a lively exploration across traditional practice area divides to consider the value of “legal theory” in legal education and in the practice of law.
The Center for Business Law at New England Law | Boston is sponsoring a one-day conference to explore the value and relevance of legal theory. At its core, legal theory can be thought of as a lens to engage in thinking not only about how the law currently works but also as part of a values-driven inquiry into how the law should work.
The conference will explore topics such as:
- Is the teaching of legal theory in conflict with making students practice ready upon graduation?
- Is legal theory relevant to the practitioners struggling to advise clients?
- How can legal theory best be taught and in what courses?
- What understanding of legal theory should well-educated lawyers take from their legal education?
Any member of the legal community is welcome to attend this conference, including all New England Law students, alumni, faculty, and staff. Other law school faculty are encouraged to attend as well.
Speakers
- Professor Phyllis Goldfarb, Jacob Burns Foundation Professor of Clinical Law and Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs, George Washington University Law School
- Professor Emeritus Curt Nyquist, New England Law | Boston
- Professor Anne Fleming, Georgetown Law
- Professor Stephen Veltri, Ohio Northern University, Pettit College of Law
- Professor Mila Sohoni, University of San Diego School of Law
- Professor Fernanda G. Nicola, American University, Washington College of Law
- Professor Lisa Freudenheim, Professor of Academic Excellence and Acting Director of Academic Excellence Program, New England Law | Boston
When and Where
The conference will take place on Thursday, September 14, 2017, in New England Law’s Cherry Room, 154 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116.
- Registration: 12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m.
- Program: 12:45 p.m.–5:30 p.m.
- Reception: 5:30 p.m.–6:15 p.m.
Registration
There is no charge to attend; however, advance registration is requested. Register via email to pgresham@nesl.edu or jchavez@nesl.edu.
For more information, contact New England Law Professors Gary Monserud at gmonserud@nesl.edu or Lisa Freudenheim at lfreudenheim@nesl.edu.