New clinic connects KU Law students to low-income families seeking guardianship

KU Law alum creates Guardianship Clinic, providing pro-bono representation to low-income families

Nine KU Law students participated in a new pro bono Guardianship Clinic in fall 2021. Carly Boothe, L’06, set the new clinic in motion, modeling it after a previously existing, similar program KU Law students volunteered for in Wichita.

Ryan Love, Cathryn Lind and Joan Lee
Three student volunteers for the Guardianship Assistance pro bono program, from left: Ryan Love, Cathryn Lind and Joan Lee.

“The parents of adults with special needs are often isolated and financially drained due to one of the parents being unable to work if their loved one cannot stay home alone,” Boothe said.

If a parent or adult sibling wants to be recognized as the legal guardian for their family member with special needs, they have to file it through probate court. The state of Kansas offers resources and services to families in this difficult situation; however, the number of families who need the resources and services outweighs what the state has to offer.

“There is currently no pro se option,” Boothe said. “Even a turn-key, non-contested guardianship runs approximately $1,500.”

The costs for those cases typically come from the proposed guardian’s own attorney fees.

Within the new Guardianship Clinic, KU Law students, Johnson County Developmental Supports (JCDS), Kansas Legal Services (KLS) and members of the Johnson County Bar Association (JCBA) work together to provide services in adult guardianship cases to low-income families.

Boothe conducted a training course over Zoom in October for students volunteering at the clinic. After, students were assigned a supervising JCBA attorney. Each student had the opportunity to work with a proposed ward’s family member(s) seeking guardianship and a proposed ward from a different family. Students drafted the required paperwork and provided information to the court on the need and appropriateness for the appointment of the guardian.

“I wanted this to be a hands-on program for the law students, so they could conduct actual client meetings, complete the necessary investigation and draft the required paperwork,” Boothe said. “I also wanted to introduce this really rewarding area of law to students, so they realize the level of impact we attorneys can have.”

KU Law students reflected on their experience in the inaugural year of the clinic.

“I wanted to personally be part of this program because I want to assist people in my community,” said Cathryn Lind, a third-year law student and Guardianship Clinic participant. “I want to be an attorney who makes the lives of people in my community better.”

2L Doug Bartel echoes Lind’s desire to serve others.

“I participate in the Guardian Assistance Program because I believe in its mission,” Bartel said. “Guardianship can be an expensive and confusing process for Kansas families, especially when they are already dedicating their time and resources to caring for their adult children with disabilities.”

Boothe is pleased with the success of the first year in the clinic’s operation and looks forward to its continued growth for low-income families with guardianship needs, KU Law students and JCBA members.

“We attorneys have the privilege of using our skills to help others,” Boothe said. “My day is so much more rewarding when I’m using those gifts and encouraging others to use theirs, too.”

–By Sydney Halas

On-campus interviews in a pandemic

As the spring semester kicks into gear, a law school experience that most of us dread will be in full swing. On-campus interviews, or OCIs as they are commonly referenced, are a marathon of interviews for law school students seeking summer or post-graduate employment. The spring OCIs will be the first time 1Ls experience OCIs. As someone who has been through both spring and fall OCIs, I have a few tips to offer to those who have not experienced on-campus interviews.

Donald Pinckney
Donald Pinckney, 2L Student Ambassador

1. Embrace the awkwardness

            Obviously, the pandemic looms over everything that we experience in law school, and OCIs are no exception. Because of the pandemic, most employers will probably opt to conduct interviews by Zoom or some other web platform, so all of the tips for conducting yourself via Zoom apply. Dress accordingly, find a quiet space, use an appropriate background and make sure the host can hear and see you. With those four things in mind, remember interviews are inherently awkward and Zoom will only amplify that awkwardness. The lag will cause you to talk over the host accidentally, the connection may drop, you might not be able to hear the host or vice-versa. This all happened to me during my fall interviews, along with my AirPods disconnecting and my laptop attempting to update mid-interview. Just embrace that some things are outside your control, and the interviewer may be trying to deal with similar issues. Apologize and move past the issue but do not linger on it. Showing grace when dealing with an issue will only endear you to the interviewer and improve your chances of a call-back interview.

2. Prepare, prepare, prepare

            Every firm or organization you interview with will expect you to have questions. This is your opportunity to find out not only about the firm but also how they potentially align with your interests. For instance, if you are interested in civil litigation and the firm specializes in defending worker’s compensation cases, that may not be the firm for you. Yet again, this happened to me during an interview, and when I asked the firm about their civil litigation department, I was told it was a small part of their business. When I looked at their website, I saw civil litigation mentioned as a practice area, and only by asking did I discover that civil litigation was not the focus of the firm. This is what I mean by be prepared–approach the interview from the perspective that not only are you selling yourself to the firm, but they are selling it to you. Be prepared to ask those questions that would affect your summer experience.

3. Be a person, not a lawyer

            It’s tempting when interviewing during OCIs to lean on the stereotypes of lawyers and try to sound impressive. Again, this was a mistake of mine and was especially difficult to break, but during an interview, an interviewer asked me to tell them a story that was not on my resume. Being put on the spot like that forced me to put aside the polished persona I had prepared and be myself. So, I told a story about being stuck on a freeway overpass during a tornado warning and that story sold the interviewer on me as a person. I let my guard down for a few minutes and showed the interviewer who I am day-to-day. That is the person the firm will see every day, and giving them a glimpse of that person will help you more than any other bit of advice I can give. Be polished, be prepared but remember to be a person.

-By Donald Pinckney, a 2L from Toledo, Ohio and a KU Law Student Ambassador

The Career Services Office (CSO) provides resources for interview preparation and virtual interview tips on the CSO’s Interview Resources page, and tips for virtual meetings on the CSO’s Professionalism page.

The importance of feeding your creative side during law school

In Legally Blonde, Elle’s father was wrong when he told her, “Oh, sweetheart, you don’t need law school. Law school is for people who are boring and ugly and serious.”

Thankfully, law school, particularly KU Law, is for all personalities—especially the interesting, quirky, and creative folks, just like Elle! Personally, by finding ways to be creative—in and out of school—I have reduced my stress and am a better student for it. So, if you’re like me and had to resist the urge to use pink scented stationery for your law school application, here are some tips and advice that will help keep the creative juices flowing while studying the law.

Kendra Stacey
Kendra Stacey, 3L Student Ambassador
  • Just do it. Make the time needed to pursue your creative endeavor. For me, I continued to sing in my church choir. I had to plan ahead but making those few hours a week a priority was worth it. Spending time away from studying and enjoying an activity that has nothing to do with the law gave me a much-needed break. Whatever activity brings you joy and reduces your stress, make the time for it!
  • Work with youth. If you’re brave enough, spending time with kids is a perfect creative outlet. I’ve been able to help kids develop their performance skills through local theater and music groups, which in turn has helped me develop more of the skills I need to be a great lawyer. If the fine arts are not in your wheelhouse, you could consider reaching out to area schools’ debate clubs or Youth Court programs. These programs are always looking for sponsors, judges for competitions or even someone to give feedback.
  • Get involved in student clubs. Student clubs need your creativity and always look for someone to help with event planning, publicity, merch design and even entertainment elements. For example, as a KU Women in Law group member, I helped curate and produce an online Pub Night for the school. We depended on many students and faculty members to creatively raise funds for a worthy cause while enjoying a memorable evening together. The 1L class created hilarious videos, the Moody Bluebooks (a faculty parody band) entertained us with their music and a classmate even shared her “Disney Princesses Go to Law School” viral music video. We could not have done it without the creativity of our peers, and I can almost guarantee every other student group is looking for creative help also!

Coming to law school is no time to hang up your creative hat! Law school is precisely for exciting, fun and creative people. While studying the law, make it a priority to fuel your creative side, whether joining a community group, engaging with those younger than you, or sharing your talent with a student group. Maybe you shouldn’t use pink-scented paper for your 1L memo, but you don’t have to confine yourself to case law and the IRAC method. There are times you can add some sparkle to your life and as Elle says, give it a “little something extra!”

–By Kendra Stacey, a 3L from Kansas City and KU Law Student Ambassador

Recent Graduate Spotlight – Nate Crosser

Making connections, seizing opportunities and staying true to his values

Recent KU Law graduate Nate Crosser, L’19, has a passion for supporting the underdog—whether that be a fresh entrepreneur or a farmed animal. As principal on the investment team at Swiss venture capital firm Blue Horizon, Nate found a way to pursue his callings simultaneously.

Nate Crosser
Nate Crosser L’19

“After law school, I was working with biotechnology startups at the KU Innovation Park but also wanted to work in animal welfare and existential risk mitigation,” Crosser said. “All those things came together for me in the field of alternative proteins.”

Alternative proteins are plant-based, cell-based, and fermentation-enabled meat, eggs, and dairy created as a satisfying, socially responsible substitute for animal agriculture.

Using his professional strengths and personal passions as a guide, Crosser accepted a job at the Good Food Institute, a sustainable food systems nongovernmental organization (NGO). He saw success in his first role in the new industry.

“I built up the knowledge base, reputation and network that got me the role at Blue Horizon,” Crosser said.

In his role at Blue Horizon, Crosser contributes to several areas of the operation.

“I work on sourcing, evaluating and negotiating venture capital investment opportunities primarily at the seed stage and primarily in animal-free agrifoodtech startups,” Crosser said. “I also support Blue Horizon’s corporate development through public speaking, creating partnerships and uncovering unique investment opportunities.”

Crosser is grateful to work in an industry that supports his passion for animal welfare and plant-based diet. He has also been inspired by the drive and entrepreneurial spirit of his clients.

“I really enjoy boosting entrepreneurs and helping get their dreams off the ground,” Crosser said.

Crosser had no idea this was where his career would take him when he entered the inaugural LEAD Program class as an 18-year-old college student. Still, his experiences at KU Law helped define his career focus and set him up for an entrepreneurial role.

“My Business and Commercial Law Certificate helped me speak and read more intelligently in the finance world,” Crosser said. “And clerking at Dentons—which I got through OCIs—doing transactional corporate work deepened my interest in doing deals.”

Crosser understood the value of growing his network and constantly making connections during his time and KU Law.

“Networking through the KU Business & Tax Law Club got me an internship at the Kauffman Foundation, a startup ecosystem-building NGO,” Crosser said.

He earned another internship through Professor Lumen Mulligan.

“My relationship with Professor Mulligan, cultivated through the LEAD program, probably got me a role with the UVF Crossroads,” Crosser said.

Professor Mulligan introduced Crosser to his former partner, Jeff Stowell, L’01, who runs the venture capital training program at UVF Crossroads.

As a recent graduate, Crosser searched for work that aligned with his skills and values, and he recommends current law students and other recent graduates do the same.

“Don’t optimize for salary or prestige–optimize for interest, fit, impact and balance,” Crosser said. “I think if you keep working hard those other things will come, and if they don’t, maybe it won’t matter so much.”

— By Sydney Halas

This post is the fifth in a series highlighting recent KU Law graduates. Check out other stories about Diana Jarek, Sowensky Lumene, Claudia Chavarria and Emma Easom.

Recent Graduate Spotlight – Emma Easom

Reading, thinking, and taking time to appreciate the weight of judicial decision

Recent KU Law graduate Emma Easom recognizes the impact those working for the judiciary possess and does not take the responsibility lightly. Easom, L’21, is clerking for Chief Justice Michael E. Vigil of the New Mexico Supreme Court.

As a clerk, Easom spends a great deal of her time reading briefs and reviewing records—anything to deepen her understanding of a case. Before oral arguments, Chief Justice Vigil, Easom, and her co-clerk discuss the cases and the legal questions before the Court. After oral arguments, the chambers begin the opinion writing process.

“I feel really fortunate to see the crafting of a judicial opinion from the submission of the briefs to the publication of the opinion,” Easom said.

The justices, paralegals, staff attorneys, and clerks devote a lot of time to each opinion. Easom said, “It’s a really collaborative and supportive environment.”

Emma Easom
Emma Easom, L’21

KU Law prepared Easom well for her work. Her time with the KU Law Review and in Advanced Legal Research, taught by Professor Chris Steadham, prepared her for reviewing opinions, researching case law, and checking legal citations. Easom said, “I think there’s a theme that stayed with me through law school: take your time and always pay attention to detail. It will always be worth it.”

During her 1L summer field placement with the New Mexico Law Offices of the Public Defenders, Easom represented clients in metropolitan court. Now, Easom is grateful for the opportunity to see the advocacy process from the other side of the bench. Along with a certificate in advocacy skills, Easom received the James P. Mize Trial Advocacy Award at graduation, given to a student who shows outstanding promise as a trial advocate.

Easom’s advocacy skills were honed by KU’s Mock Trial Program, coached by Professor Alice Craig and Professor Meredith Schnug, and are transferrable to her work as a clerk. Easom said considering both sides of the case is vital to the appellate process.

“My work lends itself to full immersion in the legal issues and consideration of the consequences of the Court’s decision.”  

While writing, Easom reminds herself of the importance of going back to the basics.

“Every single word you use matters,” Easom said. “It’s really important to remember that these cases directly affect someone’s life. The language in the opinions should be accessible to everyone whether it’s a student, a reporter, or a law professor.”

Easom developed an appreciation for the importance of thinking beyond oneself while working with the Paul E. Wilson Project for Innocence & Post-Conviction Remedies at KU Law. To her, the Project was an important symbol of hope for clients with limited access to the legal system. Easom recommends the Project not only for the real-world experience but also for the chance to work with outstanding professors and a tight-knit group of students.

“Professor Cateforis, Professor Craig, and Professor Phillips were there to support me in and out of the classroom. They were genuinely interested in my growth as a woman in law and the start of my career,” Easom said. “I really loved the Project.”

Law school was not the first choice for Easom. As the daughter of two pharmacists, Easom often heard medical jargon amidst her parents’ conversations at dinner. Easom knew she wanted to solve problems like her parents and positively shape her community, but didn’t know how to incorporate her love of philosophy, reading and writing.

Her high school guidance counselor suggested Easom consider law school.

“When he suggested it, it was as if someone had opened a new world to me and gave me permission to explore my desire to effect change,” Easom said.

KU Law’s LEAD Program reaffirmed Easom’s desire to enter the legal field. With guidance from the program’s mentors—including Professor Lumen Mulligan—the KU Honors Program, and the added buzz of the Jayhawk spirit, the then high school senior was convinced KU was the right choice. She earned two undergraduate degrees, one in Spanish and another in philosophy, from KU in three years.

“You can feel the spirit of the school,” Easom said. “There’s a lot of excitement about being a Jayhawk. A lot of pride. It’s always great to hear a ‘Rock Chalk,’ especially here in New Mexico.”

Easom encourages current and future Jayhawk lawyers to be curious and get involved. Easom was the president of Women in Law, vice president of the Public Interest Law Society, a judge for KU Law Traffic Court, and an extern with the Kansas Court of Appeals. 

“Take classes that seem like something you may be interested in even if you think you’ll never practice in that field,” Easom said, “and seek out conversations with your professors. They are eager to talk with students, give you opportunities, and connect you with your passions. Your learning doesn’t stop at the end of law school—it’s just the beginning.”

–By Sydney Halas

This post is the fourth in a series highlighting recent KU Law graduates. Check out other stories about Diana Jarek, Sowensky Lumene and Claudia Chavarria.

What I learned my first semester of law school

As the spring semester is about to begin, I find myself reflecting on my first semester of law school. Grades and class ranks have been posted. I have a pretty good sense of what worked for me last semester, as well as what I need to do to improve next semester. I know many 1L law students are in a similar situation. Here are four things I learned my first semester of law school:

Rachel Henderson
Rachel Henderson, 1L Student Ambassador
  • Everyone is getting better

Doing well in law school is a skill that students develop throughout their 1L year.  Learning to read and brief cases, outlining entire courses, and preparing canned answers are some of the challenges facing 1L students. Throughout the semester, our case briefs become more concise, our outlines more useful, and we realize that canned answers are actually worth preparing. Everyone in our class is developing and improving these skills throughout the year. If you are not focused on improving your skills, the quality of work that may have helped you do well on the midterm may not be enough to do well on the final. It pays to constantly analyze your work and look for ways to improve.

  • The right study group is key

The right study group helps you deepen your understanding of the material and improve your grades. Study groups hold you accountable—no one wants to show up to a study group unprepared. Study groups show you your blind spots. You may think you understand something, but your study group helps you realize you have got something wrong. In a good study group, everyone contributes, and everyone benefits. I am lucky to have found a great study group. However, if you have not found the right group yet, it is OK to keep looking!

  • Find the outlining method that works for you

There are several approaches to outlining. It is important to find the method that works for you. Outlining is not just about producing a document that can aid you on an exam. The best outlining methods will deepen your understanding of the material as you create the outline. This past semester, I experimented with a few different styles of outlining. I found that I prefer an outlining style that is organized around issue-spotting questions and lays out the steps for analysis. It takes more time to create but has been the most helpful to me on exams.

  • A routine makes it easier to manage your time

Law school can feel all-consuming. I personally found it very difficult to balance law school with the rest of my responsibilities. I remember having a conversation with a peer where we both confessed we were way behind on laundry. At the time, I was glad to know I was not the only one struggling. Next semester, I want to do a better job making time for non-law school activities and responsibilities. I know having a routine is key to school-life balance. Toward the end of the fall semester, I fell into a routine of being at the law school from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day, attending class and studying. This allowed me to take Saturdays off to focus on relaxing and spending time with my friends. (During midterms and finals, I spent Saturdays studying as well.) This routine helped me stay dedicated and focused on my schoolwork without feeling burnt out.

Next semester, I want to create routines for my non-law school activities and responsibilities. For example, I want to spend 30 minutes cleaning when I get home from school every day. I want to do grocery shopping and meal prep on Sundays. Hopefully, building routines will help me achieve school-life balance.

— By Rachel Henderson, a 1L from Wichita and a KU Law Student Ambassador