Student affiliates are required to take a two-seminar series on the American Legal Profession during the second year of law school (or, in the case of evening students, during the third year) and to complete a Capstone paper or project during the fall of their final year. Students also are required to present their Capstone paper or project to all CPVP affiliates in a roundtable format.

Seminar Series

American Legal Profession: An Introduction (Fall)
This seminar draws on empirical research to explore the roles and values of lawyers in American society. The seminar aims to forge links among students as well as to provide a forum for the initial development of the Capstone project. Seminar requirements include two short papers and a structured research interview.

Advanced Topics in Lawyer Regulation (Spring)
This seminar considers advanced topics in the organization and regulation of the legal profession, and the ways in which regulatory and market incentives shape the individual practice of law. The main seminar requirement is a substantial research paper which will serve as the basis for the Capstone project. Readings will be determined in part by student research topics.

Capstone Project

CPVP affiliates are required to complete a Capstone project in the fall of their final year of study. The Capstone project consists of a substantial research paper or public service project that draws on the seminars described above. Students are expected to seek approval for their Capstone projects in the second year of law school, (or, in the case of evening students, in the third year) and to present them to CPVP affiliates during the fall of their final year.