LINCOLN- On Monday, the University of Nebraska College of Law announced that it would be establishing a law clinic, staffed by law students and supervised by practicing attorneys, to take on cases involving free speech, public records, and public meetings. "We will defend the First Amendment rights of our clients while at the same time educating students on the intricacies of the First Amendment law," said Daniel Gutman, an Omaha attorney who will direct the clinic.

Sydney Hayes, a former associate of Husch Blackwell, will act as assistant director. Eight third-year law students will be chosen to run the clinic, which, according to Gutman, is already seeking cases. The launch of the clinic was made possible by a recent $1 million grant from the Stanton Foundation, owned by Frank Stanton, a longtime president of CBS News. For now, however, the NU clinic will focus on local and regional cases involving freedom of speech, press, assembly, and petition, and will also help to educate the students running it.

"Our clinical programs help students develop skills as they work on real cases and are a highlight in many students' law school careers," said Richard Moberly, dean of the NU College of Law. The College currently runs several other clinics, including ones focused on justice for children, immigrants, and debtors. The stated goal of the Stanton Foundation in awarding NU with the grants is to "advance First Amendment and democratic values through an informed citizenry."

For the full article click HERE