University of Richmond - School of Law

The University of Richmond School of Law educates professionals equally in the theory and the practice of law. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Richmond, the school has relationships with federal and state courts, law firms, corporations, and a “distinguished and supportive alumni network.” To top it off, “many faculty members have connections in the community because they were practitioners at one point.” The curriculum calls for all students to complete a Writing in Practice course and earn a minimum number of credits through experiential courses such as clinics, clinical placements, or simulation courses. Options for these requirements include the London Clinical Placement Program or the DC Externship Program, which places students in federal agencies or nonprofit organizations where they spend a semester completing 500 hours of supervised legal work while taking a weekly seminar. Plus, “there are even placements in niche areas,” including the Housing Law Practicum, Public Policy Research and Drafting, and International Business Practice courses. They can also choose from in-house clinics such as the Children's Defense Clinic and the Institute for Actual Innocence, which provide socially responsible real-world experience. As one student says, “Richmond has the best legal resources in the state without the overwhelming size of a massive city.”

Richmond Law students “are learning from the best of the best.” Professors here “all appear to be experts in their particular field” and “are very knowledgeable, [working] very hard to help you understand and appreciate the material.” As far as political leanings go, they “do a nice job of presenting the various ways in which judges, especially Supreme Court judges, interpret the law and the constitution.” Additionally, the school's small size means “it's easy to get know your professors and form great relationships with them,” and they “are always able and willing to give … practical life advice and don't push [students] into their area of practice.” Outside of the classroom, the school “provides amazing resources including online research databases, … helpful law librarians, and responsive career advisors,” and “new resources are constantly being added.” Shedding light on those career services, one student says, “The Career Development Office … is unmatched and has provided me with the guidance, expertise, and confidence to pursue all of my professional goals.” Similarly, members of the administration “are willing to have tough conversations and ensure they are addressing student body issues to the best of their ability.”

Richmond itself “encompasses the perfect mix between city and outdoor life, with the James River and … trails right in the downtown area.” There “are always festivals, live music, and food trucks,” and “many students live within the city in order to experience the best of both worlds.” It has “countless destinations to bask in nature and eat good food,” says a student. On campus, Richmond Law “does a great job of keeping the friendly and cooperative environment among students,” and “there is a great social scene” and “a myriad of student organizations.” Still, even with so much going on, one student says, “Everyone wants to help each other succeed and there is no pressure to compete.” On the whole, “Richmond Law is fairly collegial and tight-knit” and “there is a down to earth feel to the school.”