"After 30 years spent in courtrooms in Texas, ... I am comfortable that SMU's emphasis on how to think as opposed to what to think has been instrumental in procuring justice for a number of deserving clients."
- Frank Branson '69, '74
Partner, Law Offices of Frank L. Branson, PC
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About the Public Service Program

Students should tailor their public service toward their personal interests.  For example, there are opportunities for students to help with immigrant, employment, housing, domestic violence, tax, and education areas of law to name a few.  Time spent exploring the available options will maximize a student’s public service experience. 

In addition to reading about the pre-approved placements on the Public Service website, we encourage students to visit with public interest attorneys speaking on campus throughout the year, or during Public Interest Law Week and Public Advocate Day.

We recommend that you perform your Public Service before your third year of law school.  Make certain to give yourself and your placement ample time to ensure a quality Public Service experience.  See Timeline.

Interested in performing your Public Service graduation requirement outside of the Dallas area?  Please see the Procedures section for Student Initiated Placement information.  A good place to start your research is by reading the Frequently Asked Questions link.