Ahhhh....it's almost time for FINALS!

Exam Study Time

Reading period officially begins on Thursday 12/1 before Finals.
Finals begin for upper class students on 12/3 and first year students on 12/5.

Capital Law provides a few resources to help everyone out during finals week.

Crash Carts will have usual snacks, ear plugs, and aspirin available daily on the 2nd floor.
Breakfast for Dinner will be in the Commons on 12/1 @ 5:30 PM
Bark and Bolt will be at the Capital Street Lobby @ 4:00 PM

Make sure you update your software and download your exams. 

Additionally...ExamSoft registration will soon be closing for the Fall 2016 semester on 12/2/2016.  If you wish to type your exam, instead of write by hand, visit  www.examsoft.com/capitallaw for more information. Exams need to be downloaded at least an hour before the exam.  But don't wait until the last minute.

A few basic tips to remember..

Read the instructions, in full

Don't just start writing

Think about your answer and organize your thoughts

Outline your answer or make notes before you begin to write (remember, listing facts is not the same as analyzing them)

Don't write in conclusions, walk the answer through the analysis

Beware of the time, but don't watch the clock, you don't want to get to the last long essay with only 15 minutes left to answer

If you feel bogged down, talk to another student, faculty, or staff member.  Everyone here wants everyone to do well, and will take the time to help you. 

And Remember....

GOOD LUCK....SEE YOU IN THE SPRING (Semester)

The Turkey Pardon - Presidents saving Birds since at least 1987...What a FOWL tradition!

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Did you know that since at least 1987, there has been at least one turkey pardoned each year?  Sometimes, there has been more than one bird pardoned.  They go on to live on ranches, hang out and are grand marshals of Disney parades, living the relaxed live at Mount Vernon and more!

Ronald Reagan has been credited with the first 'official' pardon.  That turkey, Charlie, was sent to a petting zoo.  In 1989, George H.W. Bush created the annual tradition of pardoning a turkey, and it has been a permanent part of presidential history ever since.  There have been other turkey's lives spared prior to 1987.  John F. Kennedy spared a bird just days before his assassination, and Nixon even spared a feather or two while president.

Happy Thanksgiving!

This years lucky ducks, well turkeys, are Tatar and Tot!

 #TurkeyPardon2016

There's even a movie made about a presidential-pardoned turkey!

An who can forget this classic song...

A Brief Timeline of how Thanksgiving came to be...

1621 - The Pilgrims celebrated the first corn harvest with a celebratory feast
1623 - The Pilgrims held a feast to celebrate the end of a long drought
1789 - George Washington made the first Thanksgiving Proclamation celebrating the end of the War for Independence
1817 - A few states, including New York, began celebrating their own Thanksgiving Holiday
1827 - Sarah Joseph Hale, author of Mary Had a Little Lamb, began a campaign to establish Thanksgiving as a National Holiday
1863 - Abraham Lincoln granted Mrs. Hale's request, and Thanksgiving was celebrated on the last Thursday in November
1939 - FDR moved the Holiday up a week, to help with retail sales during the Great Depression (but people didn't like it!)
1941 - FDR signed a bill marking the 4th Thursday in November as Thanksgiving

Thank you Mrs. Hale and President Roosevelt for our 2 days off each year!

The Labor and Employment Law Association is Awesome! Check it Out!

This is the last weekly organization blog update for the year folks! If you are like me, you will be crawling across that finish line in a few weeks and ready to gorge on holiday treats and Netflix. In the meantime, I have one more exciting Cap Law student org to tell you about. The Labor and Employment Law Association ("LELA") is another unique and awesome organization open to all interested students. Their mission is to provide a forum for students to keep up to date and learn more about labor and employment law as well as encourage involvement in this field. LELA provides and facilitates networking opportunities with practicing attorneys and professionals in this field both in and outside of the school.

LELA members are extremely passionate about this area of law and the organization. Co-President Lauren Larrick says she loves this organization because "[t]here are so many different avenues of practice within the umbrella of labor and employment law, and this organization provides a great way to learn about these different areas while you are a student." She says getting involved as a student is one of the best ways to expand your network and ensure securing a job after graduation. LELA and other similar orgs can help students determine what areas of law they are interested in while they are still trying to figure out what they want to do!

In case you missed it, this semester LELA brought you:

• "Women in the Legal Profession," which was a panel of successful female attorneys discussing life, law, professionalism, and how to be successful! This event was hosted in conjunction with the Women's Law Association during diversity week.
• A labor and employment law CLE at Capital on November 9th. The CLE featured presentations on:
• new medical marijuana laws and how they impact employer drug testing and drug-free workplace policies,
• the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family Medical Leave Act,
• ethics and professional development in labor and employment law,  
• National Labor Relations Board updates and hot button issues,
• the Pregnancy Discrimination Act and recent developments following the Young v. UPS case, and
• labor union representation issues. 

If you didn't get to catch any of these awesome events, don't worry! Watch your e-mail next semester. LELA will be hosting a networking event for students and practicing attorneys in the labor and employment law field. LELA is always looking to provide further education for students and attorneys on developments in this area of law while ensuring students have ample opportunities to meet like minded attorneys and learn more about labor and employment law practice. 

If you have any questions about LELA or would like more information on their meetings and events, please contact Lauren Larrick at llarrick@law.capital.edu or Alysha Clark at  aclark7@law.capital.edu. 

Capital University Law School Offers Practical Experiences

If you are looking for practical experience in the field of law, there are many opportunities around the law school.  Learning isn't always done in a classroom.  Check out the variety of ways you can earn credit towards graduation, while getting real-world experience.

Externships
Capital University Law School’s expansive externship program offers varied opportunities for CapLaw students to earn academic credit for experience in the legal field. These site experiences with courts, government agencies, non-profits and in-house counsel offer practical experience helping attorneys perform real legal work. Alumni often serve as site supervisors and mentors for the externs. 

General Litigation Clinic
Capital University Law School’s Legal Clinic provides no-cost legal services to a variety of individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford legal representation. The Clinic also provides students with the opportunity to develop and enhance their client counseling skills and professional ethics by representing indigent clients under the careful supervision of law professors and staff attorneys. In addition to providing a valuable service to the community, students experience directly the excitement of legal practice. There is no more exhilarating feeling than standing up in court before a judge to advocate for your client. The comprehensive nature of the clinic immerses each student in the human drama inherent in actual client representation.

Mediation Clinic
Mediation clinic is a clinical experience for students who have completed the Mediation class. Students will mediate disputes in a variety of settings including Small Claims Court and the Municipal Court. Additionally, students will mediate disputes referred directly to the clinic. Students must have completed the first year evening courses and Mediation before enrolling in this 3 credit-hour clinic. In addition to some classroom work involving general skills training in the techniques needed to conduct a mediation, students will spend a majority of the time conducting actual meditations at the Franklin County Municipal Court and the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Domestic Relations Division, Juvenile Branch.
Externships

Moot Court
The Moot Court Program at Capital University Law School is the student-run appellate advocacy honors society. Members of the Moot Court Program receive the practical experience of drafting appellate briefs and developing strong oral advocacy skills, intellectual flexibility, the ability to function well under pressure, and the self-confidence necessary to be successful advocates. Competitors, also known as “Mooters”, travel all over the United States to compete in regional and national competitions. Additionally, members of the Moot Court Program are eligible for two credit hours in the semester in which their competition takes place. 

Volunteer Income Tax Association (V.I.T.A.)
VITA is sponsored by the ABA and the IRS. As a VITA volunteer, you will gain practical training in taxation and an opportunity to develop client counseling skills. At the same time, you will be serving the community. Understanding tax matters may be helpful in a number of areas of the law; consequently, we all stand to benefit. VITA provides free income tax service (preparation of tax returns) during the tax season for the economically challenged, handicapped and the elderly. VITA serves the community, fosters good will and a community presence, provides practical experience (and training) in taxation for student volunteers to develop "client counseling skills," and fosters an active campus relationship with the ABA.

Pro Bono Recognition Program
Capital University Law School's Pro Bono Recognition Program helps students connect with volunteer opportunities at courts, non-profits, and government offices. Those who contribute 50 or more hours to approved projects during the course of their law school career are recognized with Pro Bono Legal Honors. Students participating in the pro bono program gain valuable practical experience in the legal field and network with judges and attorneys while starting on the path to a career-long commitment to giving back. 

Family & Youth Law Center (FYLaw) 

The Family and Youth Law Center at Capital University Law School (FYLaw) works within child welfare, adoption, and juvenile justice systems to support positive outcomes for children, youth, and families.  Established in 1998 as the National Center for Adoption Law & Policy, FYLaw  partners with local, state, and national agencies and organizations in collaborations aimed at improving the laws, policies, and practices associated with child protection, adoption, and juvenile justice systems. 

Mock Trial

Mock Trial is a student organization where students develop and apply the principles of trial advocacy during a simulated trial that is based on fictitious facts and evidence. The Mock Trial team learns how to conduct a trial from start to finish. Students are taught how to think and act like a trial lawyer. They plan, draft and present opening statements, direct examinations, cross-examinations and closing arguments. Mock Trial also teaches students how to object to evidence properly, how to handle objections raised against them, as well as how to handle various courtroom procedures like entering evidence or impeaching witnesses. These experiences are unlike anything that can be taught in a classroom because students learn to deal with the unexpected, just like they will have to do in practice. 

Student Bar Association: What They Do For You!

The Student Bar Association ("SBA") is an organization designed to speak for the student body at Capital University Law School. They are the "voice of the students" and they advocate on our behalf according to SBA president Heidi Callendar. All students are already a member of the SBA, which is organized under the American Bar Association. However, you can choose to get more involved with the organization and run for a position!

SBA is important to its members and representatives. Heidi likes representing the students and she finds students often come to SBA reps when they are having a problem and do not know who else they can talk to. Each representative has different goals and plans depending on their role and who they represent. If you are interested in knowing more about these positions, you should ask your class representative for more information! It is a good idea to know who these people are just in case. So, if you want to get more involved with SBA or simply mingle with other students here is what SBA has in store this year:

• SBA meets on the last Monday of every month at 5:15 PM. If you are interested in attending, you should e-mail SBA secretary, Holly Torres at htorres@law.capital.edu to ensure the meeting has not been changed.
• SBA is hosting a bar crawl around Thanksgiving! Stay tuned for more details. SBA usually plans and organizes your bar review. It is a great way to relax with your peers after a long week.
• There will be a "brinner" (breakfast for dinner) as part of exam time events to help you power through. Let's be honest... you don't cook during finals anyway so you may as well come out and relax! 
• Stay tuned for a Blood Drive held in conjunction with the American Red Cross.
• Mark your calendars for a Spring Fling event with more details to come.
• On April 1, 2017 Barrister's Ball will take place at the Athletic Club. It is an excellent opportunity to get fancy for the night!
• Remember, you can rent a locker from SBA. It may be a good idea as it gets colder and you don't want to run out to your car in the weather! 
• SBA also maintains a book lending bank for those students who may not have enough money to buy books or if you lose a book and do not have the money to replace them. If this is something you are interested in, don't hesitate to contact Heidi, or one of your representatives. 

Remember, SBA is your organization! Tell your representatives and officers your ideas and ways to improve student life here at Cap. If you have any questions, or are interested in getting more involved, contact Heidi Callendar at hcallendar@law.capital.edu! Heidi's last words of advice: "[d]on't give up!"

Grab the popcorn...It's MOVIE TIME!

photo credit

Everyone needs a break; law students especially.  Here are some law-related movies so you can veg out and watch someone else go through what you are!  

In no particular order:

The Paper Chase - 1973
A first-year law student at Harvard Law School struggles with balancing his coursework and his relationship with the daughter of his sternest professor. 
Amazon Columbus Metro Library

My Cousin Vinny - 1992
Two New Yorkers are accused of murder in rural Alabama while on their way back to college, and one of their cousins--an inexperienced, loudmouth lawyer not accustomed to Southern rules and manners--comes in to defend them. 
Amazon Columbus Metro Library

Rounders - 1998
A young man is a reformed gambler who must return to playing big stakes poker to help a friend pay off loan sharks.
Amazon Columbus Metro Library

Legally Blonde - 2001 and  Legally Blonde 2 - 2003 and Legally Blondes - 2009
When a blonde sorority queen is dumped by her boyfriend, she decides to follow him to law school to get him back and, once there, learns she has more legal savvy than she ever imagined.
Amazon Columbus Metro Library


Then Elle Woods heads to Washington D.C. to join the staff of a congresswoman in order to pass a bill to ban animal testing.
Amazon Columbus Metro Library

Finally, moving from England to California, the youngest cousins of Elle Woods must defend themselves when their schools reigning forces turn on the girls and try to frame them for a crime.
Amazon Columbus Metro Library

The Verdict - 1982
A lawyer sees the chance to salvage his career and self-respect by taking a medical malpractice case to trial rather than settling.
Amazon Columbus Metro Library

To Kill a Mockingbird - 1962
Atticus Finch, a lawyer in the Depression-era South, defends a black man against an undeserved rape charge, and his children against prejudice.
Amazon Columbus Metro Library

A Few Good Men - 1992
Neo military lawyer Kaffee defends Marines accused of murder; they contend they were acting under orders. Amazon Columbus Metro Library

Note: Movie summaries taken from imdb.com

Join Phi Alpha Delta!

As the end of the semester is winding down, many of you may be thinking "I should totally get involved around Cap!" Well, I am here to feature another student organization that you should definitely check out. Did you know all of the U.S. Supreme Court Justices are Phi Alpha Delta alumni? Phi Alpha Delta is a co-ed professional fraternity that "encourage[s] professionalism by supporting [and] rewarding camaraderie" that will help its members be successful in the legal profession. Phi Alpha Delta has a lot to offer. They provide continuing legal education, scholarships, and networking opportunities for law students and undergraduate students who join their pre-law chapter.

Phi Alpha Delta is an international organization and therefore has a strong alumni network. Mia Naseer says this organization is important for many reasons. Mia says P.A.D. has "genuine, professional, and loyal members." Plus, there are a lot of perks to joining! Mia has been presented with many professional and employment opportunities through their substantial network. Further, the organization is known for its compassion and showing true "brotherhood/sisterhood" and has won several chapter merit awards here at Capital!

If you missed their awesome interactive Halloween table, don't worry! Check out some of the exciting things Phi Alpha Delta is doing this year:

• They are hosting Bar Review at Bar Louie on Friday November 11th starting at 4:30. This is an event open to 1Ls and members only! Don't forget to RSVP. 
• The group is collecting toiletry donations for the Faith Mission. Faith Mission is a men's shelter located a few blocks from the school, and they could greatly benefit from any small donation. 
• Watch out for Rush week where they will display P.A.D. pride and hand out t-shirts and highlighters. 
• If you are interested in Moot Court, Phi Alpha Delta has a team!

Mia's advice for 1Ls and incoming students is to always be yourself, you get out of something what you put into something, and to join organizations you feel passionate about and have time to dedicate to! Mia says remember no one will hand you things so work hard, have compassion for others, and work to better yourself and your community. These qualities will take you far!

If you are interested in joining P.A.D. or you would like more information about the group, don't hesitate to ask questions. Contact Mia at mnaseer@law.capital.edu today! 

It's BAR EXAM / CANDIDATE APPLICATION Season!

Photo Credit

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WHO PASSED THE JULY BAR!

EXAM APPLICATIONS:

For those graduating in January 2017, Summer 2016, and those that need to retake a previous exam, today, November 1st,  is the deadline to take the February 2017 Bar Exam. Details can be found here. The late registration date is December 12 (with $100 late fee).

The Feb exam will take place February 21 - 23.  The actual location has yet to be officially released, but sounds like it will be at the Columbus Convention Center.

CANDIDATE APPLICATIONS:

For those Second Year Law Students, November 15, is the deadline to register as a Candidate for Admission.  You've probably already had Professor Twiss visit one of your second year classes to give you all the details.  Details can be found here.  If you miss this deadline during your second year of law school, you can still apply at anytime with a late fee.

The process from application to conditional approval to take the exam is a long one.  The application itself is long, complicated and requires names, addresses and information about things most of us have long forgotten.  Don't wait until the last minute, it will take more time that you think it will.  After some time, you will be interviewed by a pair of attorneys regarding your character and fitness.  If all goes well, sometime in the spring, you'll get that letter in the mail that you've been conditionally approved...what a day that is going to be.

Good Luck!

Some Important Dates

http://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/AttySvcs/admissions/calendar.asphttp://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/AttySvcs/admissions/calendar.asp

(Disclaimer: Information believed to be accurate, please check http://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/ for the latest and most up to date information.)

Pro Bono Honors

In honor of National Pro Bono Celebration week, let's take a moment to discuss what the Pro Bono Honors Legal Program at Capital University is all about.

Students completing at least 50 hours of Pro Bono work, will be recognized at graduation. Students participating in the pro bono program gain valuable practical experience in the legal field and network with judges and attorneys while starting on the path to a career-long commitment to giving back. 

Check out the Pro Bono Website for details! http://law.capital.edu/Pro_Bono_Recognition_Program/

During this week, veterans are being honored. There are several ways to get involved.

Still Left this week:

  Wednesday, October 26 (Day):

     Where: 12:00 PM-1:00 PM, Room A121

           

     What: Pack your lunch and join us for an informative and important panel discussion made up of Capital Law Alumni.

   Wednesday, October 26 (Evening):

     Where: Room A122, 4:00 PM-5:00 PM Mandatory Training

              Huntington Commons, 5:30 PM- 7:30 PM Wills Clinic  

     What: Join us for a Low Income Wills Clinic for Veterans. There will be limited spots available, so please sign up soon. You will be matched with an attorney to help veterans complete essential estate planning documents.

      NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE NECESSARY- 1Ls MAY  PARTICIPATE!  

   Friday October 28 (Day):

     Where: Room A121/A122, LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED.

     What: Join us for a Military focused CLE!

     “Representing Service members: Understanding Their Service is Essential to Understanding Their Case”

     Speaker: Michael D. McCarthy Executive Director, Operation Legal Help Ohio

How to Register: Email amessick@law.capital.edu

Don't Forget...

ALL THIS WEEK! (10/23-10/29), we will be holding a food drive to benefit M.A.S.H. pantry. The Military and Service Heroes Pantry is a Non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable food pantry serving Veterans, Armed Forces, their families and survivors of the Columbus Metropolitan area. Place your donations in the blue bins located in the Commons and in the back lobby.

Tired of Studying? Join the Criminal Law Association!

The October fog is (hopefully) lifting soon and it is the perfect time to check out the Criminal Law Association! The Criminal Law Association is another organization at Cap Law that wants to engage students in an exciting subject matter. Their mission is to "provide [students] with a forum for education, exploration, and interaction with criminal law" according to their President, 2L Sam Scherger.
The Criminal Law Association has a lot of exciting opportunities for students. I'm sure many of you attended when they hosted Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O'Brien. If not, don't worry. There are many other opportunities for people who are interested (or just testing the waters) in criminal law! This year they are excited to host different speakers and engage members by sharing interesting articles or experiences related to criminal law. The group will focus on diversion programs through these events. Keep an eye out:

• on November 2nd, the Criminal Law Association will partner with the Children and Family Law Advocates in hosting Ohio State Bar Association liaison and former state representative, Todd Book. Todd Book will discuss legislation, both past and pending, that relates to children, family law, and criminal law. This is going to be a really interesting lecture, so don't miss it! Check your e-mail for more details.

The Criminal Law Association would like to increase contact with an array of professionals in the field. Sam Scherger has compiled a list http://www.inquiriesjournal.com/articles/

of professional criminal law organizations and associations so students know when and where they have monthly meetings. This is an amazing networking opportunity for anyone interested in meeting practicing attorneys or learning more about the practice of criminal law. Sam understands how intimidating it can be for students to attend these meetings alone. That is why the Criminal Law Association tries to send at least one executive board to each of these meetings. Having a friend to help you network makes it that much less stressful and now you have NO excuse not to get out there!

Sam also has some words of wisdom to share with 1Ls and prospective students. She suggests joining a student organization, volunteering pro bono, or just getting involved. She found class to me more interesting and more useful when she had real world experience to reflect on. She especially enjoyed meeting practitioners and getting to know more about their day to day, what drives them, and how to be successful. She says for example "I worked [at] a pro bono clinic with the Legal Aid Society of Columbus two days before a contracts exam. During that clinic, an attorney from Nationwide explained to a client how contracts are interpreted. . . . [W]hen that came up on the midterm, it was solid in my memory." 

If you are interested in attending a meeting, going to a professional organization meeting, or just getting to know more about the Criminal Law Association you can reach out to Sam at sscherger@law.capital.edu!

Halloween Around Columbus!

photo credit

A Sampling of Halloween Related Fun around central Ohio!

BOO AT THE ZOO

  10/21/16 - 10/30/16
  5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  $14 adults, $8 children 3-9, seniors 60+
  Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
     4850 W. Powell Rd.
     P.O. Box 400
     Powell, OH 43065
  Get Details

HIGHBALL HALLOWEEN

   10/21/16 - 10/22/16
   Recurring weekly on Friday, Saturday
   Friday-Saturday 6 p.m.-1 .m.
   $10
   Short North Arts District
      North High Street from Nationwide Blvd to 7th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
   614-299-8050
   Get Details

ALL HALLOW'S EVE

   10/22/16

   Saturday 5:30-9:30 p.m.

   Ohio History Center & Ohio Village

      800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211

      614-297-2300

   Get Details

ScareAtorium

   Through 10/29

   $20

   Thursday - Sunday 7:30 - 9:30 (or later)

   2605 Northland Plaza Drive; Columbus, OH 43231

      614-761-FEAR (3327)

   Get Details

Haunted Hoochie

   Through 10/29

   $25

   Thursday - Saturday 7:30 - 9:30 (or later)

   Get Details

Hitchcocktober

   Through 10/29

   $Varies

   Daily 7PM; Encores Sat/Sun

   Gateway Film Center

      1550 N High St; Columbus, OH 43201

   Get Details

Have You Heard About the Women's Law Association?

The Women's Law Association is yet another amazing student organization at the Capital University Law School and they provide excellent opportunities for all students, including men! Did you know, in 2013 women represented only 20.2% of law firm partners nationwide? This number is only 3.4% higher than it was in 2003! The mission of the Women's Law Association (WLA) is to improve the status of women in the legal profession by identifying barriers that women face. They design projects and programs to engage the student body and enhance understanding about the issues legal professionals face on a daily basis.


WLA is very important to its members, especially their president, Holly Torres. She states "[a]s a female entering a predominately male profession, I think it is exceptionally important to provide women with as many educational and professional opportunities as possible in order to improve their status. . . . Even with women entering, and graduating, law school in higher numbers than in the past, women are still fairly underrepresented in [the] profession, especially in top-level positions such as [] partner." She feels an organization like WLA is not only essential, but it is the perfect platform for women to have an open dialogue and encourage each other to make real change. WLA has allowed its members to develop leadership, organizational, and networking skills that can't be beat!

WLA is doing a lot of awesome stuff this year, and everyone should check them out.

• WLA will participate in Capital's 2nd annual Diversity Week. On October 19th at 5:00 PM in room 208 they will host Former Supreme Court Associate Justice, Yvette McGee Brown, Ohio Attorney General Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Jennifer Adair (a Capital alumna!), and General Counsel and Executive Sponsor for the Professional Women's Network Group, Pam Vest Boratyn (another Capital alumna). Come check it out!
• WLA will begin hosting a monthly Brown Bag Conversation series, similar to Barrister's Club. They will be hosing local judges, attorneys, and deans to talk about the legal field and professional life. These brown bags will be limited to only 6-8 members so be sure to watch your e-mail for more information! 
• WLA and the Office of Professional Development will host Capital's annual Women Leadership Forum with the Esther Brocker Scholarship Reception on November 3rd at Ice Miller. 
• In November, WLA will host a fundraiser. They will be selling raffle tickets for final exam "crash" baskets that will include all of your exam time goodies/must haves! Be sure to enter to win a basket full of sugar, energy drinks, school supplies, and gift cards. 
• In the spring, WLA will host a "Galentines Day" bake sale.
• Watch out for a wine and paint social - my favorite! 
• Also, stay tuned for the highlight of the spring, the Constitutional Law Debate where you can watch your professors battle out current issues before the Supreme Court!
• Finally, WLA will work with the Women Lawyers of Franklin County on a joint community service project, and provide WLA members the opportunity to attend Women Lawyers of Franklin County's Soiree celebration.  
• As always, feel free to attend regular meetings to get more information on how to get involved!

This year, WLA would like to grow its membership and make all their events successful. Success to them means their attendees walk away from the conversations, panels, and events with a new perspective. Holly believes "it is imperative that women be equipped, educated, and inspired to break the ever present glass ceiling that lingers over women in the legal field[,] and it is not enough for only women to speak on these issues!" If you are interested in attending a meeting, participating in an event, or just getting to know more about this incredible student org, contact Holly Torres at htorres@law.capital.edu for more information!

Social Media Dos and Don’ts for Law Students

Pretty much everyone uses at least one, if not more, forms of social media. It's easy to use, fun to look at and can pass time even on the slowest days.  But, watch what you say, once you hit the post, send, or tweet button, someone out there is going to see it.  Even though posting on social media is usually protected speech, that doesn't mean you should always say what you feel.

1. Don't vent about your professors.

You may feel the need once in awhile to vent about a particular professor or class.  But don't do it on social media.  Professors and administrators are on social networks and you wouldn't want to give the wrong impression to anyone that you can't keep your opinions to yourself.  If you really feel the need to vent, do so with a trusted classmate, without other ears around, so it stays between a limited number of people.

2. Don't vent about your classmates.

Same as your professors, don't vent publicly about classmates.  You wouldn't want someone out there trashing your name, so you really shouldn't do it to someone else.  Your classmates will become your colleagues in the near future, would you want to go up against opposing counsel who remembers what you said about him/her on social media years ago?  Memories can be long when it comes to things of this nature,

3. Expand your professional network.

By all means, friend your classmates, professors, administrators and those you network with, as you come across them in your lives. The law profession is all about networking, use social media to create a solid professional network, and use it!

4. Avoid the time suck.

Set aside some time each day to look at, post, and comment on social media.  Don't just randomly hop on and off during class and other times of the day, that time can surely add up.  Also, watch when you post things.  Employers and professors can see social media, and if you constantly posting during work or class hours, someone may notice. Stick to times are you waiting for class to start, or after you get home, so you don't get the reputation as someone that is distracted all the time by social media.

5. Don't trash the school.

This should go without saying, but don't trash the school you go to, even in jest.  It looks bad on everyone when students say nasty things about their school.  If you can't say something positive, then don't say anything at all.

6. Only post messages and information that you would say publicly.

A good rule of thumb...if you wouldn't say it in front of your mother (or grandmother), then chances are you shouldn't say it on social media.

7. NEVER post when you are angry or upset...once it's out there, someone has seen it.

Even if you think better of something later and delete, chances are more than one person has already seen it.  Cool off, take some time to think about what you were going to say.

8. DO have fun with it.

Social media is out there for a reason...it's fun.  How else can you see endless pictures of cute baby animals, or that video of the baby panda sneezing that scares his mother?

These are always good pointers for your professional life after law school...be mindful of what you say..

Check Out the Christian Legal Society!

Happy October, Cap Law community! As we are gearing up for fall, I want to introduce you to the Christian Legal Society! The Christian Legal Society (CLS) is  yet another one of our amazing and dedicated student groups. Their mission is "to provide an avenue for students to either explore their faith, or to continue to grow an existing relationship with Jesus Christ" according to President, Paul Strobel.

The Christian Legal Society is very important to Paul because it helped him keep perspective when faced with the challenges and stresses of 1L year. Doing well in school was extremely important to him. However, CLS showed him there is more to life, and to law school, than getting good grades. Not only is it important to give back to your community both inside and outside the law school, but it is important to stay in touch with what is important to you.

                                                   http://meditationonlongisland.org/volunteering-at-the-center/

The Christian Legal Society has a lot of awesome activities planned this year.

• One event they are particularly excited about is hosting a mock trial of a story from the Old Testament. They are going to incorporate practicing attorneys in Columbus. Not only is this an amazing way to hone your advocacy skills, but it will allow you to network with local attorneys. 
• There are also several volunteer opportunities to look forward to and get involved with such as:
• Volunteering with the Faith Mission. The Faith Mission is the largest shelter system in Columbus. They have two men's shelters and one women's shelter where they provide beds, food, clothing, and support services such as free legal clinics.  
• Volunteering with the Ronald McDonald House. The Ronald McDonald House Charities provide assistance for families who have sick children in the hospital. Their mission is to support programs that improve the health and well-being of children by making sure their families are close by.
• Look for e-mails from the Christian Legal Society about these really amazing events and volunteer opportunities! 

This year, CLS would like to have more of a presence in the Capital Law School Community. They want to make sure people know what CLS is, and how to get involved in this awesome organization. If you have any questions, or would like to find out more about CLS, contact Paul Strobel at pstrobel@law.capital.edu!

And now for something completely different...

Photo Credit

Now that midterms after over for 1Ls, and the semester is nearing the half-way point, it is time to have a few laughs (or roll your eyes at the bad jokes, whatever makes you happy! :) )

What's the difference between a good lawyer and a bad lawyer?       

     A bad lawyer can let a case drag out for several years. A good lawyer can make it last even longer.

A lawyer dies and goes to Heaven. "There must be some mistake," the lawyer argues. "I'm too young to die. I'm only 31." "31?" says Saint Peter. "No, according to out calculations, you're 110." "How'd you get that?" the lawyer asks. Answers St. Peter, "We added up your billable hours."

As the lawyer awoke from surgery, he asked, "Why are all the blinds drawn?" The nurse answered, "There's a fire across the street, and we didn't want you to think you had died."

A man and his young son were visiting the grave of the son's grandmother. On their way through the cemetery back to the car, the son asked, "Daddy, do they ever bury two people in the same grave?"       

      "Of course not, son," replied the father, "Why would you think that?"

      "The tombstone back there said... 'Here lies a lawyer and an honest man.'"

What's the one thing that never works when it's fixed?

    A jury.

Why won't sharks attack lawyers?

    Professional courtesy.

What do you get when you cross the Godfather with a lawyer?

    An offer you can't understand.

And finally...

A lawyer boarded an airplane in New Orleans with a box of frozen crabs and asked a blonde stewardess to take care of them for him. She took the box and promised to put it in the crew's refrigerator. He advised her that he was holding her personally responsible for them staying frozen, mentioning in a very haughty manner that he was a lawyer, and proceeded to rant at her about what would happen if she let them thaw out. Needless to say, she was annoyed by his behavior. Shortly before landing in New York, she used the intercom to announce to the entire cabin, "Would the lawyer who gave me the crabs in New Orleans, please raise your hand."

     Not one hand went up . . . . so she took them home and ate them.

SMILE!

The Children & Family Law Association: Why You Should Get Involved!

Welcome back Capital Law School community. Have you heard of the Children & Family Law Association? If not, you should definitely check them out at their next meeting. Their mission is to promote and advocate for the rights of children and families. They also want to connect Cap Law students and CFLA members with practicing attorneys in the area. As I have mentioned, these groups understand the value of networking, and strive to create opportunities for students to interact with family law practitioners in the Columbus area.


http://www.dorchesterchildren.org/

Steve Katz is one of CFLA's most dedicated members. He is incredibly passionate about their cause. He states "children don't have their own voice in the legal system, so it is important for us to advocate on their behalf and for their best interests." His involvement in CFLA has also given him the opportunity to expand his network. He has spoken with magistrates, judges, practicing attorneys and politicians about these hot button issues. CFLA members can have an open and candid conversation about the challenges and issues facing children and families in our local community.

There are a ton of opportunities to get involved with CFLA this year. You just missed an OSBA/CFLA luncheon with Magistrate Lenski. However, don't fret! Watch your e-mail for more opportunities to get involved, coming soon!

This year, CFLA wants to keep up the good work. They hope to have:

• A second lunch with a magistrate to give students an opportunity network and learn more about their involvement in the community.
• A documentary film screening.
• A discussion with state senators to allow students to ask pointed questions about how the Ohio legislature is working for children and families.
• They also plan to add to this list of awesome events. Like I said, stay tuned and watch your e-mail! 

Finally, Steve and CFLA would like to share some words of wisdom for 1Ls and new and incoming students. "Get involved and get involved early!" 1L year is tough and can seem completely overwhelming. However, the key to success is balancing your time and if you do that, you will find time to get involved with student orgs. Whether students choose to join CFLA or another student group, just try to make it a priority. Steve personally has made a lot of valuable connections through his work with CFLA. We can never emphasize enough the importance of building your network and establishing relationships with people in the legal community. It is never too early to start. If you have any questions, contact cfla@law.capital.edu.

Midterms are OVER!

Now What?

There are generally one of three thoughts law students have after they take their first midterm.

1.   "Wow! I did awesome! I'm going to do great in law school!"
2. "Hmm, well, I did as well as the curve, I'm doing okay, I'm going to be just fine!"
3. "Oh my! What happened? I can't believe I got a D! Maybe I am not cut out for law school!"

No matter what your grade, or what your thoughts, you should always meet with your professor and get feedback and use it to improve your study habits.  Meeting with classmates can also help get feedback on your study habits.  Take the next couple of weeks to fine tune what works for you.

If you thought #1, great!  But don’t stop studying. Just because you did well, doesn’t mean all your classes would have had the same outcome, keep up the good work…but don’t stop!

If you thought #2, good! You are going to be just fine, try to retrace your study habits and make some adjustments.  For some of us, we just need to take one test to be able to know what to expect.  Now that one is out of the way, you’ll be able to know how to prepare for the next one and improve.

If you thought #3, don’t worry, life isn’t over.  Most every law student at one time or another takes a bad test.  It happens, learn from the experience and start studying for the next one.  You can certainly pass the class, and even do quite well, with one low midterm grade.  Meet with your professor and take advantage of any ASP workshops going on.  There are plenty of people and resources to help everyone be successful and help you recover from this one midterm.

Well done, now take a break for a few hours and do something fun!

Go Green with the Environmental & Energy Law Society!

Welcome back to our weekly Capital University Law School student org update! This week I want to tell you about an awesome organization that goes by EELS. EELS stands for the Environmental and Energy Law Society. Their mission is to give students at Capital exposure to the abundance of opportunities available in this booming industry. EELS would like to provide guidance to students who are interested in this career path. They are there to help determine what kind of classes you should take and expose students to 

                          http://blog.kenan-flagler.unc.edu/tag/cse/                                                                                                                    
valuable networking opportunities. Finally, EELS cannot overlook the importance of exposing students at Cap Law to the gravity of caring for the environment and preserving it for the future.

The President of EELS, Erica Friedman, feels very passionately about the organization. She wants to help students who are interested in this career path break into the field. She understands the value of networking and meeting like minded individuals who are currently practicing in this area of law. The environmental bar in Columbus is a very dedicated group of people who want to engage with students. Erica also feels passionately about environmental stewardship. EELS gives her an outlet to raise awareness in and around the law school community about the importance of conservation and our responsibility to protect the environment for future generations. 

So what is EELS doing this year and how can you get involved?

• Their first meeting is on September 29th from 5:00-6:00 PM. During this meeting, there will be a panel on "Careers in Energy Law"  hosted in conjunction with the Energy & Mineral Law Foundation and the Office of Professional Development. Alumni will have a chance to talk about what exactly they do, and why they do it! Food and Beverages will be provided. 
• They will host a panel on climate change with esteemed professionals ranging from OSU Moritz College of Law to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Watch your email for more details!
• They will also be planning a fundraiser and a community service event. They welcome anyone who is interested to get involved.

EELS hopes to host an exciting event each semester to get the word out about this awesome group and their mission. They want to get students excited about environmental and energy law. If you have any questions please contact efriedman@law.capital.edu!

Check Out the Capital Equality Alliance!

Capital University Law School has many outstanding student organizations. The Capital Equality Alliance (CEA) is one of the many unique and engaging organizations for students to get involved in. Capital Equality Alliance is Capital’s LGBTQ student organization.  Theodore Kelly, the president of CEA, states their mission is “to provide a safe space, create a solid support network, participate in professional networking opportunities, and learn more about the law and LGBTQ rights.” CEA is an inclusive group that has the ability to allow everyone to feel accepted, so don’t be shy!

Before Theodore Kelly started law school, he was worried about whether he would be accepted. He identifies as transgender and was scared to enter a new environment without any idea whether he would be welcomed into the law school community or treated as an outcast. The previous members of CEA welcomed him and laid the foundation for a group that was as exciting as it was inviting. He felt it was safe and supportive and became dedicated to furthering their mission and getting involved on campus.

There is a lot of great opportunity to get involved with CEA this year.

·         The next meeting is October 14^th – everyone is welcome!

·         In October, CEA will be hosting the Rainbow Bake Sale fundraiser. Be on the lookout for an email to get involved!

·         October 17^th – 21^st is Diversity Week at Capital Law School. CEA and many other student orgs are getting involved.

·         In November CEA is hosting a lecture on the History of Gay Rights in America. Our own Professor Wood will be the lecturer.
·         In January, CEA will be hosting a social mixer with the Capital University PRIDE group, which is the undergraduate LGBTQ student organization. 

·         In March, they will be holding a Community Service Event.

·         Finally, in April, CEA will be hosting elections for the 2017-18 board and having an end of the year party!

CEA’s goal for the year is to grow their membership. They stress having the support of LGBTQ students, staff, faculty and allies is very important. Finally, CEA’s advice to incoming students and 1Ls is to be sure and prioritize your mental and physical health. 1L year is rigorous! CEA encourages you to get involved with your community both inside and outside the law school. Also, don’t be afraid to make some new friends! There are organizations full of wonderful people who are there to help you make it through this new and challenging adventure.

Check out CEA at their next meeting or during Diversity and Inclusion Week! Stay tuned for more updates on all the student organizations here at Capital University Law School.

5 Study Tips to Improve Your Memory for your First Midterm!

5 Study Tips to Improve Your Memory for 
your First Midterm!

           1.       Speak Out Loud Instead of Simply Reading

Sometime reading can become a mindless activity and you zone-out and skip over passages instead of actually reading them.  Reading aloud solves that problem. 

       2.       Reward Yourself With A Treat

Always reward yourself with small treats as you conquer study milestones.  Like completing an outline, finish briefing all your cases or just working for a set number of hours, a small treat will be a great boost to start your next cycle of studying!

      3.       Teach What You Have Learned

Grab a classmate and teach them the latest topic you’ve mastered.  Not only will it help you retain the material, your classmate will get the benefit of working with you.

      4.       Take Regular Study Breaks

Don’t study for hours and hours on end.  Every couple of hours, take a short walk, watch an episode of your favorite program, or chat with a friend or family member.  Your brain will appreciate the break!

      5.       Practice, Practice, Practice…

Get copies of previously asked questions, samples from your professor, or make up questions with a study group. Then practice writing essays, in test taking conditions (quiet room, no distractions), and time yourself.  Use an outline to grade yourself afterwards, or exchange answers with a classmate and help grade each other.