Ex. Economic Justice and Empowerment Externship: Consumer Bankruptcy

Students in the Consumer Bankruptcy Externship will assist low-income New Yorkers facing financial distress with filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Students will work with experienced practitioners at The Legal Aid Society to offer legal services that empower and provide a financial fresh start to clients. The experience will enhance the law students’ practical skills and abilities as future lawyers and increase their understanding of the economic challenges faced by lower income New Yorkers and their families, while empowering them in their interactions with the bankruptcy system. Under close supervision and working in teams, students will gain hands-on experience in lawyering while simultaneously helping some of the most disadvantaged debtors obtain relief in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. They will advise clients of their options, communicate with their creditors, file bankruptcy cases and represent clients at the Meeting of Creditors before the Bankruptcy Court. Students may also have the opportunity to represent clients in adversary proceedings, including discovery and trial as well as settlement negotiations with creditors and assist clients effectively through the bankruptcy process._

Instructor: Natalie Jean-Baptiste