About Drake's Legal Clinic

Through the Drake Legal Clinic, students have the chance to gain practical experience by working with actual clients. The clinic also serves the community by helping those who might not otherwise have access to legal assistance.

Iowa Student Practice License

Students who have completed the equivalent of three semesters of law school may apply for an Iowa Student Practice License.

Once admitted under the rule, participants in clinical programs are permitted to appear—under faculty supervision—as counsel on civil and misdemeanor criminal matters and to represent clients before the Iowa Court of Appeals or the Iowa Supreme Court.

If you are a student who is eligible for a student practice license and want to apply for a clinic, click here.

Facilities

The 40,000-square-foot Neal and Bea Smith Law Center houses the Law School’s clinical programs and includes classrooms, conference rooms, offices, a library, a courtroom, and an atrium.

The Legal Clinic courtroom with state-of-the-art technology is used for a variety of educational purposes and is also available for Iowa district court hearings, which are typically open for student observation.

Drake's Legal Clinic is supported by a $4.5 million federally funded endowment that ensures continued service to students and the community.

Take a virtual tour of the Legal Clinic.

Information on Becoming a Client

Visiting the Legal Clinic

Our Office hours are Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m. We are closed for lunch between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. daily.

The Legal Clinic is closed to the general public. All visitors must have an appointment in advance. The Legal Clinic does not accept walk-up inquiries.

Parking at the Legal Clinic requires a parking pass. Current clients and visitors may obtain a parking pass at the reception desk to be placed on the dashboard of their vehicle.

Phone Calls & Inquiries

Please call 515-271-3851 and follow the prompts for the Clinic you wish to speak with. You may also email us at law-clinic@drake.edu.

Please note the Legal Clinic will not answer legal questions or provide legal advice if you are not a current client.

Due to our call volume, we are unable to return every call we receive.

Current Clients

Please contact your student attorney or the Clinic faculty for your case. If you are unsure of who you have been assigned to, please call the main line number and leave a message.