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News

From Minnesota to Syria: Fionnuala Ní Aoláin on Human Rights and Accountability

In this episode of Minnesota Law Now, Dean William McGeveran speaks with Professor Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, a leading international human rights scholar and faculty director of Minnesota Law’s Human Rights Center, about her work examining human rights and accountability in Minnesota and around the world. The conversation begins with a reflection on how Professor Ní Aoláin first became interested in human rights while growing up in Ireland.

Professor Fionnuala Ní Aoláin speaking on a podcast.

Minnesota Law Named to National Jurist’s 20 Innovative Law Schools

Minnesota Law was named to National Jurist’s list of 20 innovative law schools. The list recognizes 20 law schools that have taken new approaches to how students learn and gain experience, while “rethinking how students prepare for a changing profession.” Minnesota Law was recognized for the importance it places on experiential education that provides students with more hands-on training before graduation.

Students in a classroom engaging in a simulation.

Patent Applications 101: How the Patent Filing Process Works

A patent represents years of research, development, and investment, but securing one involves more than submitting paperwork. From documenting the invention to navigating United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) examination, each stage of the patent filing process requires careful attention to technical and legal details.

The law school, a red brick building with a crisp blue sky behind it.

Minnesota Law Mourns the Passing of Judith Oakes ’69

Judith Oakes ’69, passed away on September 24 at age 81. She was born in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and lived in St. Paul, St. Cloud, and Duluth, where she graduated from Central High School in 1963. She earned her B.A. from Hamline University and then went on to the University of Minnesota Law School, graduating in 1969, one of only four women in her class.

Judith Oakes.

Minnesota Law Mourns the Passing of the Hon. Phillip Fines ’86

The Honorable Phillip Fines ’86, passed away on August 16. He was born in Spotsylvania, Virginia, in 1957 and was raised there. He was a proud graduate of the University of Virginia. He graduated from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1986.

Phillip Fines.

Master of Science in Patent Law vs. JD: What's the Difference?

For technically trained professionals, choosing between a patent-focused graduate degree and a Juris Doctor (JD) can affect both the speed and direction of a legal career. Understanding the differences between patent law vs. JD pathways can help clarify which credential aligns with your experience, goals, and desired role. 

The law school, a red brick building with a crisp blue sky behind it.

Now Available: The 2025-26 Philanthropy Report: Together, For Minnesota Law

The University of Minnesota Law School is pleased to present the digital version of the 2025–26 philanthropy report: Together, for Minnesota Law. The report highlights the vital role our alumni and friends play in our community. See how continued investment by alumni, donors, and friends over the past year directly fuels student success, supports faculty, and transforms programs at Minnesota Law.

Thanks to all who make a difference for Minnesota Law!

Together, for Minnesota Law: 2025-26 Minnesota Law Philanthropy Report.

Technology and Patent Law: Driving Progress Through IP

Patents can encourage innovation by giving inventors a limited period of protection for qualifying inventions. That role is especially relevant in technology fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, and medical devices, where research and development can require substantial time and investment. Patent protection can help innovators preserve the value of new technologies as they move from development toward commercialization.

A pair of hands using a computer keyboard and mouse, while notetaking.