The Public Interest Resource Center (PIRC) opened in January 2005 in order to coordinate student public interest work at Widener Law’s Delaware Campus. PIRC does not provide direct client services. Instead, it teams students with public interest agencies and lawyers to help those in need. If you are interested in putting your classroom education to the test while helping clients who could really use your expertise, then PIRC can help you find an opportunity that suits your interests and your schedule.
How Public Interest Work Can Benefit You
You can put your legal skills to practical use while learning from experienced professionals eager to share their experience with you. Public Interest placements help build your résumé and give you the opportunity to network with legal professionals. PIRC also tracks your volunteer hours and
recognizes exceptional service. Although non-paying, non-credit placements, PIRC opportunities will provide you with a number of exciting benefits.
The Opportunity to Make a Difference
Public Interest Law encompasses legal services that benefit charitable, civic, community, religious, educational, or government organizations that assist those of limited means, as well as legal services offered to groups that protect civil liberties or public rights. If you have completed your first semester of law school in good academic standing, PIRC can offer you an opportunity to get hands-on experience while helping those in need. Last year, PIRC students participated in the
Katrina-Gideon Interview Project, and worked with pretrial detainees in New Orleans whose cases were delayed due to Hurricane Katrina. Locally, students provide a range of services, from teaching young children about finances and helping low income individuals apply for a much needed earned income tax credit, to helping Delaware residents apply for pardons and helping survivors of domestic violence navigate through the legal system.
Accessing the Resources of PIRC
PIRC offers many resources to students who are interested in public service. Students are invited to speak with PIRC’s Director for public interest career counseling. PIRC also provides information about
fellowships and loan repayment assistance that can help fund summer internships and public interest careers. PIRC also offers opportunities to learn more about public interest and to meet and mingle with public interest practitioners at events like its Public Interest Law Lecture in the fall, and the Public Interest Reception in the spring. Finally, PIRC offers assistance to student groups that seek
community service projects. If you and/or your student group want to learn more about or do more public service, PIRC can help you.
Contact UsOffice Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm or by appointment
Email:
PIRC@mail.widener.eduSydney Howe-Barksdale, Director
Room: 282
Phone: (302) 477-2214
Kristan Crane Lopez, Secretary
Room: 281
Phone: (302) 477-2264
Fax: (302) 477-2706