UVM Student Legal Service History

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Following a notion by Student Association President Geoff Ligget during the summer of 1977 that a student legal information and referral service might possibly fulfill a useful and needed function within the UVM community, a poll was administered during the Fall of 1977 to students off campus and on attempting to weigh the present demands of such a service. As the incoming results showed that a service of this sort would be highly welcomed, actual formulation of Student Legal Services began during mid- January while school was still out of session.

During this period in January, daily meetings between the three proposed student directors and Geoff Ligget took place, with each meeting lasting one to three hours. At this time all the questions concerning both the structure and the functioning of the office were discussed while a written record was made of all the accepted suggestions and expected supplies. When school began session for the Spring of 1978, the basic questions had been answered and meetings were no longer on a daily basis. From then on until the actual opening of the SLS office of February 20th, legal seminars between the student directors and the employed attorney took place on a weekly basis, as the needed laws and statutes were recorded, filed and prepared for later use. By the time SLS actually opened its office doors, all the needed supplies were attained and the service fully operable.

During the spring semester of 1978, SLS employed one legal attorney from the Blodgett & McCarren Law Firm. At this time, the one attorney dealt with all the legal necessities of the service and provided legal assistance for the five areas of specialty. Available for advice at all times by phone, the attorney spent one hour/week in the office assisting students with problems and the SLS staff.

During the Fall of 1978, SLS expanded its services and employed all three attorneys from the same law firm. Throughout the Fall semester these attorneys provided legal advice as each attorney maintained a specific area of specialization. Available for legal advice at all times by phone, all attorneys collectively spent one hour/week in the office assisting students and interns.

Currently SLS retains the services of 2 Attorneys from the firm of Blodgett, Watts, and Volk. These attorneys share the responsibility of a one hour weekly meeting, and two hours in the SLS office during the week. They still provide legal assistants, and expertise to the SLS Interns and clients. If an emergency arises the attorneys are always available through the telephone or a visit to their office. The thirteen Interns that are currently with SLS vary in age, experience, and majors. This wide array of knowledge creates an important base from which SLS can help its clients. SLS is available to any student at the University of Vermont at no cost. We are proud, and committed to help our clients with their legal problems.

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legal disclaimer:

Since Student Legal Services represents all students equally, we cannot assist in any cases involving a student with a claim against another student. We offer consultations and assistance, however SLS does not provide the same services a paid attorney would. If this is what you require we can refer you to a local attorney to fulfill these needs.

Page last modified: August 18, 2002 04:08 PM EDT