UC Davis School of Law Launches Capital Law Scholars Externship Program

UC Davis School of Law is introducing a new program that will expand externship opportunities for King Hall students and aim to increase the number of graduates employed in government and policy work in California's capital.  The UC Davis Capital Law Scholars Program will offer students expanded opportunities to enroll in externships in Sacramento with government offices, the Legislature, and nonprofit agencies engaged in policy work.

"Watching legislation take shape first-hand in Sacramento is a priceless learning experience for law students," said California Senator Lois Wolk. "The UC Davis Capital Law Scholars Externship Program will provide those valuable opportunities."

"As a King Hall graduate, I can attest that the law school's proximity to Sacramento -- the capital of California, the world's eighth largest economy -- means unparalleled networking and learning opportunities in the public policy arena," said Assembly Member Luis Alejo '01. "I currently have an excellent King Hall student extern in my legislative office. I think it's outstanding that more students will gain direct experience in state government through the UC Davis Capital Law Scholars Externship Program."

As part of the Capital Law Scholar Program, King Hall students will have opportunities for placement with various California offices or state agencies, including:

• The California Attorney General's Office of Legislative Affairs
• The California Office of Legislative Counsel
• The California State Senate or Assembly
• California State Senate or Assembly Committees
• The ACLU of California Center for Advocacy and Policy
• The California Fair Political Practices Commission

The program, open to second- and third-year students, represents an expansion of the King Hall Externship Program, which allows students to earn academic credit for field placements in government or public interest law offices while being jointly supervised by a practicing attorney and a member of the King Hall faculty. Students in the program will enroll in a one-unit "Capital Law Scholars Seminar" and work under the supervision of the seminar instructor, external site supervisors, and a King Hall faculty Supervisor.

"One of the great advantages of choosing UC Davis School of Law has always been the opportunity to gain valuable, real-world experience in government and public policy work in nearby Sacramento," said Dean Kevin R. Johnson. "With the UC Davis Capital Law Scholars Externship Program, King Hall will expand those opportunities and strengthen our connection with California's capital."