Orientation program for 1st year law students: The Professionalism Commission conducts a segment of the orientation program for new law students in Illinois law schools. Through the administration of the Oath of Professionalism by a Supreme Court or Appellate Justice and through small group discussions of problem-solving hypothetical scenarios facilitated by practicing lawyers, the students are introduced to the fact that their legal careers, and their conduct consistent with the highest ideals and expectations of the profession, begin as they enter law school.

“After the J.D.” for 2nd year students: The Professionalism Commission will introduce a program to 2nd year law students, including national data regarding career choices and life-balance issues, with the goal of arming students with tools to assess the array of alternatives available to them following graduation from law school and to choose to a rewarding career tailored to their individual preferences. In addition, the students will be introduced to the myriad of resources available to support their decision-making and development, including student bar association memberships, pro bono activities and obligations, and diversity and balance of life issues and initiatives.

“Recipe for Success” for 3rd year students: The Professionalism Commission is developing a program for 3rd year law students to support a professional and successful beginning to their practicing careers. Aspects of this program under consideration are: education about the requirements of mandatory continuing legal education, including the Basic Skills Course; information about trial advocacy programs and basic law office management resources; the benefits and resources offered by involvement in bar associations; the requirements and alternatives of insurance, both professional liability and medical; the support available from the Lawyer’s Assistance Program (LAP); court tours; pro bono obligations and opportunities; diversity and balance of life issues; mentor programs. We may re- visit hypothetical scenarios that illustrate the ethical dilemmas of the practicing world to have the students re- gauge the compass of their critical and professional development before graduation.

The Commission is always happy to hear from Illinois lawyers, judges and professors interested in participating in programs involving law students. Please let us hear from you by using our “Contact Us” page.