Student practitioner question Forum

[JDanger007]

I am wondering if anyone has any knowledge, or may know where to look in the law (to see if I am aloud to do this): I am a law student working for a firm who would like me to do a direct examination of a witness in an arbitration. This is not part of a clinic. Does anyone have experience to know if this is something that is allowed? I obviously do not want to have any issues come time for C and F. Also, does anyone know if there would be a good organization AAA, or ABA, or my state bar association to see if this is legal? Obviously if it is not, I am not going to violate any laws by doing the arbitration, but clearly its great experience and just was not sure if anyone has this experience or can provide help. IT has been challenging looking through the law for it.

[despina]

This is not a forum for legal advice.

You're a law student working for a law firm -- do some legal research on the law in your state. Call the state bar association's ethics folks if you can't figure it out.

[encore1101]

My instinct is that you cannot, since its part of employment and not a clinic or internship. Of course, I'm just some random fuck on the internet and you should consult with your state bar/C&F committee to make sure.

[zot1]

So I know for court in California you couldn't do this with a law clerk certification from the state bar. It is possible your state bar could have a similar requirement for arbitration representation.

I would ask your dean of students or a professor you know and trust that has litigation experience within your state.

I hope this helps!

[nygrrrl]

As has been noted, this is not a forum for legal advice. I second contacting your state bar association.