Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?
Students interested in applying to the Clinic should either call the Clinic for an interview (718-990-6689) or arrange an interview by coming to the Clinic, Room 1-18, and speaking with Joanna Ianiello, our administrative assistant. Students must also submit a cover letter, current resume, and unofficial Law School transcript to Room 1-18.

When are my Fall 2005 and Spring 2006 applications due?
Interviews with Professor Goldweber and Professor Calabrese will be held during the weeks of 3/17, 3/24, and 3/31 for the Summer and Fall semesters. We will take appointments for interviews beginning on 3/10 and continuing through 4/3.

Are there any Pre- or Co-requisites for the Elder Law Clinic?
Students are required to have completed their first year of law school (24 credits), including courses in Civil Procedure and Legal Writing. Courses in lawyering skills, including Evidence and Trial Advocacy, are not required but are recommended for all Elder Law Clinic students.

As a student intern, will I actually get to represent real clients?
Student interns provide direct representation to low-income Queens area senior citizens in the areas of consumer law, including consumer frauds and predatory lending practices, and public benefits law.

As a student intern, what will my responsibilities be?
All student interns will be responsible for:
  • Interviewing and counseling clients;
  • Conducting fact investigations;
  • Preparing pleadings and other litigation papers;
  • Conducting discovery;
  • Negotiating settlements; and
  • Representing clients at administrative hearings and in court proceedings.


What type of time commitment does the Clinic require?

Enrollment in the Clinic requires an overall commitment to direct client representation and a weekly commitment of thirteen (13) office hours during the fall and spring semesters and twenty (20) office hours during the summer, coupled with a weekly seminar component during the fall and spring semesters and a biweekly seminar component during the summer. Interns are paired in teams of two and work together on the cases assigned to them.