Clinics
At the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, legal education goes beyond theory—it’s rooted in action. Through six faculty-supervised law clinics, students represent real clients, address urgent legal challenges, and develop the skills that define effective, ethical lawyers. Open to second- and third-year students, clinics offer structured, hands-on experiences that count toward the experiential credit requirement while making a tangible impact in the Louisville community. From defending tenants and supporting immigrant families to aiding survivors of domestic violence and advising small businesses, Brandeis Law clinics prepare students for practice and service from day one.
Our Clinics
416 West Muhammad Ali Boulevard, Suite 200, Louisville, KY 40202 | (502) 852-6556
Robert & Sue Ellen Ackerson Law Clinic (Domestic Violence)
Third-year students represent survivors of domestic and dating violence in Jefferson County Family Courts.
Core Skills: Litigation, client counseling, family law, case management, interviewing, trial preparation, cultural competence
Best for Students Interested In: Family law, litigation, advocacy, helping survivors
Contact: Heend Sheth (heend.sheth@louisville.edu) or Molly Stanley (molly.stanley@louisville.edu)
Mediation Clinic
Second- and third-year law students mediate family law disputes among self-represented litigants in Family Court.
Core Skills: Mediation, conflict resolution, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), client communication
Best for Students Interested In: Negotiation, problem-solving, family law, ADR
Contact: Spoorthy Kailas (spoorthy.kailas@louisville.edu)
Immigration Law Clinic
Second- and third-year law students assist foreign nationals with immigration matters, including applications, documentation, and representation before tribunals.
Core Skills: Case assessment, federal/admin law, client counseling, cross-cultural communication, managing complex legal issues
Best for Students Interested In: Immigration law, federal law, service to diverse communities
Contact: Chris Kozoll (christopher.kozoll@louisville.edu)
Housing Clinic (Eviction Defense):
Third-year law students represent low-income defendants in eviction cases in Jefferson County District Court.
Core Skills: Litigation, housing law (URLTA), motion practice, oral and written advocacy, client defense
Best for Students Interested In: Housing justice, public service, courtroom advocacy
Contact: Jeff Metzmeier (jeffrey.metzmeier@louisville.edu)
Entrepreneurship Clinic
Students collaborate with UofL MBA teams to support startup ventures and student-led businesses.
Core Skills: Contracts, IP, business counseling, client development, patent basics
Best for Students Interested In: Business law, entrepreneurship, intellectual property
Contact: Will Metcalf (will.metcalf@louisville.edu)
Trager-Brandeis Elder Law Clinic
Students assist senior citizens with estate planning, guardianship, and related legal matters.
Core Skills: Legal drafting, estate planning, interviewing, counseling, case management
Best for Students Interested In: Elder care, wills and estates, client service
Contact: Lee Shaw (aaron.shaw@louisville.edu)
A Foundation for Your Career
Students who participate in Brandeis Law Clinics gain more than academic credit—they gain confidence, clarity, and real-world experience that prepares them for success after graduation. Whether you’re passionate about public service, interested in litigation, or eager to explore transactional work, there’s a clinic that matches your goals.
Interested in Joining a Clinic?
Contact the clinic directors listed above, or speak with the law school’s Office of Academic Affairs to learn more about enrollment, prerequisites, and how clinic work fits into your academic plan.
