Through the Law School’s Clemency Project, Connor Shaull ’20 argued virtually before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit on behalf of a woman who had been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for a low-level, non-violent role in a methamphetamine crime. The argument, which Shaull delivered two days into his first post-Law School job as an associate at a Minneapolis law firm, was the culmination of an effort he had begun during his time as a student. Shaull worked closely with Professor JaneAnne Murray, who founded the Clemency Project seven years ago in response to a presidential initiative.
“The Clemency practicum was the perfect blend of legal writing and oral advocacy. I was thrilled to represent a real client while still in law school, and I was so fortunate to get to work with Professor Murray," says Shaull.
The Clemency Project is one of the many opportunities that students have to pick up experiential learning outside the Law Schools 25 formal clinics. Beginning with our innovative Law in Practice program in their first year, students get the best of both worlds; top-notch academic programs combined with a vast array of hands-on programs that develop practical skills. It is our aim to graduate students who have both a strong knowledge of the law and the ability to practice it.