Public Interest Initiative

The Public Interest Initiative (PII) serves as the center for student public interest work at Widener Law Commonwealth. Through the PII, you can improve your practical legal skills while providing services to benefit organizations or individuals dedicated to charitable works, civil liberties, or public rights.

Benefits of Involvement

PII opportunities are unpaid and not for academic credit, yet they yield significant benefits. Volunteering through the PII allows you to put your legal skills to practical use while learning from accomplished professionals eager to share their experience. It’s a chance to build your resume and to make a difference in the lives of clients who can really use your help. The PII also tracks your volunteer hours and acknowledges exceptional service.

The Opportunity to Make a Difference

According to the American Bar Association, “Every lawyer has a professional responsibility to provide legal services to those unable to pay.” If you are ready to begin fulfilling this responsibility and have completed your first year of law school in good academic standing, the PII can offer you a placement to suit your needs and interests. Start your search for opportunities through PSJD (formerly PSLawNet), a worldwide public service law network that supports more than 150 law schools and 12,000 public service organizations. Here’s how:

Easy PSJD Registration

1. Visit http://www.psjd.org/  
2. Click on "Sign Up Now."
3. Enter your e-mail address.
4. Create a password.
5. Select "Student" under User Type.
6. Select "Widener" as your law school.
7. Click "submit" and follow prompts to create your user profile.

Required Recordkeeping

If you choose to take part in PII, it is important that you log your time and provide feedback on the quality of your experiences. Please follow the instructions for doing so on the Public Interest Initiative Form (updated on 1/8/20).