Utah Valley University Considers Law School Amid ‘Legal Eagle’ Shortage
Utah Valley University (UVU) is considering the establishment of a law school to address the increasing demand for legal professionals in Utah. This proposal comes amid projections that the state’s population may exceed 4 million by 2030.
Proposed Resolution for Law School Feasibility
State Senator Brady Brammer, a Republican from Pleasant Grove, presented a resolution to the Senate Education Committee, urging UVU to explore the viability of a law school. The committee has recommended the motion favorably.
Current Legal Landscape
Utah currently has two law schools: Brigham Young University (BYU) and the University of Utah. Both are situated in the northern Wasatch Front and offer traditional legal education primarily during regular business hours. Brammer emphasizes that these options may not adequately serve the growing legal needs of Utah residents, particularly in rural areas.
Addressing the “Legal Eagle” Shortage
- Utah faces a shortage of legal professionals, including public defenders and agency attorneys.
- The demand for legal services is rising due to population growth and evolving community needs.
Brammer’s resolution highlights that establishing a law school at UVU could enhance access to legal education for non-traditional students, such as working professionals. The envisioned program would include evening and weekend classes tailored to accommodate individuals already established in other careers.
Feasibility Study Considerations
The proposed feasibility study will assess several critical factors:
- Facility requirements for a law school at UVU or modifications to existing properties.
- Accessibility to essential library resources and classroom technology.
- Staffing needs, including full-time and adjunct faculty to meet American Bar Association standards.
- Projected enrollment and tuition costs for the new law school.
Location Benefits
Brammer argues that Thanksgiving Point, near the Point of the Mountain, is an ideal location for the law school. This area is strategically positioned between Utah County and Salt Lake County, making it easily accessible for students and faculty.
Support from the Utah State Bar
The Utah State Bar has expressed support for the proposed feasibility study. They acknowledge the initiative as a potential solution to the lawyer shortage, promoting more flexible education options to broaden access to the legal profession.
Frank Pignanelli, an attorney and former lawmaker, voiced enthusiasm for the innovative approach suggested by the resolution. He believes that enhancing legal education will benefit the state by producing more well-trained attorneys.
As the discussion surrounding the establishment of a law school at UVU progresses, the findings from the feasibility study will be pivotal in determining the future of legal education in Utah. The community closely watches this development, hopeful for a more inclusive approach to training the next generation of legal professionals.
