The Civilian Vol. 8 Issue 1 by Kristen Rowlett

C I V I L I AN the

A Student Publication for the LSU Law Center Community August 2011 Volume 8 Issue 1

Shamblin-Stratton to Become First PMH Graduate to Clerk at SCOTUS

Michelle ShamblinStratton, a 2009 graduate of the LSU Law Center, has been selected to clerk for Associate Justice Clarence Thomas of the U.S. Supreme Court for the court’s 2011-2012 term. Shamblin-Stratton is the first LSU Law graduate to receive Morgan Hargrove this prestigious honor. “I am very grateful Staff Writer for the opportunity to clerk for Justice Thomas,” said Shamblin-Stratton.” I greatly admire Justice Thomas’ approach to the law and the reasoning of his opinions, and I look forward to learning from and working with him. I am honored to work for someone of his honor and integrity.”

When asked what she hopes to learn and gain from her clerkship with Justice Thomas, Shamblin-Stratton said, “I’d like to improve the way I think, talk and write about the law. I’d also like to enhance my knowledge about our constitutional system of government and the federal judiciary’s role in that system. Additionally, it’s a special privilege to join the ranks of the Thomas family of law clerks—past and present—and I’m grateful for the relationships that I’ll form along the way.” During her time at the Law Center and since graduating, Shamblin-Stratton has excelled and thrived in each of her academic and professional endeavors. Shamblin-Stratton was a member of the Louisiana Law Review, LSU’s National Moot Court Team and the American Association for Justice Trial Advocacy Team. She was awarded the 2009 Scribes Law-Review Award for her article, Silencing Chicken Little: Options for School Districts after “Parents Involved.” She was the first student

in the history of the Law Center to receive the national award. Shamblin-Stratton graduated first in her class and was recognized as a Summa Cum Laude, as well as an Order of the Coif honor graduate. Upon graduation, she clerked for Chief Justice Edith H. Jones of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Shamblin-Stratton was given one of only four Bristow fellowships in the Office of the Solicitor General of the United States. She was also the first LSU Law graduate to receive this honor. Shamblin-Stratton said she believes the Bristow Fellowship helped to make the opportunity to clerk for the U.S. Supreme Court possible. “With a Bristow Fellowship and a Supreme Court clerkship under her belt, Michelle already has made quite a mark as a young lawyer,” said Chan. Jack M. Weiss. “I look for her to continue to make an important contribution to legal affairs and legal scholarship in years to come. Michelle’s successes should encourage every LSU Law student who dreams of competing on the national stage.” When asked about her plans for the future, Shamblin-Stratton said she would like to spend some time in private practice, particularly working with appellate advocacy and possibly teaching at some point. “In any event, I’d love to have the opportunity to write and speak publicly about the law and its integration with public policy issues.” Shamblin-Stratton also offered some advice to current LSU Law students. “Work Hard,” she said. “There is no reason why an LSU Law student who excels can’t compete nationally with the best and brightest.” “Try to clerk for a judge if you can. It’s an invaluable experience that will enhance your practice, even if you plan to be a transactional attorney. Don’t wish law school away. It’s tempting to get through the stress of school by focusing on the end of finals, or graduation, and that has its place, but try to enjoy law school while it lasts. It goes by quickly, and it provides unique experiences that you can’t get back.”

Welcome, Class of 2014! And why are the rest of you still here?

INSIDE: Section Reviews, Student Orgs & Dr. Love ON THE BACK: A Map of PMH!

THE CIVILIAN • August 2011

Letter from the Editor W

elcome to another year at PMH, and welcome to Volume 8 of The Civilian. This inaugural issue is targeted specifically to the incoming Class of 2014. Much of this publication’s content is geared toward helping these bright-eyed youngsters begin their special journey of torture. 1Ls, you can find advice (ranging Will Harris from academic to romantic), humor and Editor-in-Chief a wealth of helpful information crammed into these 12 brief pages, and I hope you use it all. This is a slimmed-down version of our monthly newsmagazine, and I hope everyone looks forward to the return of many of our regular features in coming issues. I am honored to be taking the helm at The Civ this year, and I could not have done it without the support and confidence from last year’s editor-in-chief, Morgan Hargrove. I would like to sincerely thank her. This year, she will report on the PMH alumni community, which continues to be a source for enlightening news during these troubled times. That being said, I want to talk a bit about the vision this year’s Editorial Board has for Volume 8 of The Civilian. The publication’s guiding principle is this: “LSU Law students read

The Civilian.” It’s a fairly simple maxim, and it’s the basis of our slogan: “Your News. Your Paper.” We print only about 600 copies of this thing, and we distribute only within the Law Center. If we fail to provide content relevant to this extremely specific target audience, then we have lost sight of our guiding principle. My personal goal is to ensure that each issue tells you something you didn’t know, introduces you to someone new and makes you laugh somewhere between one and three times. Here’s the catch: we can’t do this without you. Are you interested in something we haven’t covered? Tell us. Are you outraged about some Law Center concern? Tell us. Are you struggling with a love life confined to your 75-person social club? Write a letter to our Dr. Love. Do you have photos from that bar your section went to Thursday night? Send them in. This is an interactive publication designed to both reflect and inform the student population’s interests. Our office is in room 105A, in the alcove across from the men’s bathroom on the first floor of the Law Center. Stop by and say “hello.” We have candy. Our email address is “TheCivilianLSU@gmail.com,” and you should GChat us during Traditions. Welcome to Paul M. Hebert High School. This is and will continue to be: Your News. Your Paper.

Send your upcoming club or organization events to TheCivilianLSU@gmail.com.

August 12-13 Entering Class Orientation hat s August 13 PAD Back to School Party August 13 OCI Bidding (2Ls and 3Ls) going on at ACS Law-la-Palooza Party August 15 Classes Begin, Tullis Problem Released August 19-20 BR Bar Association Softball Tournament August 19 First GIF at the Varsity August 21 Welcome Back BBQ & Dessert Challenge Flory Problem Released August 22 Last Day to Add Classes August 27 PILS Day of Service Other Events to look forward to this Fall: September 3 LSU v. Oregon (@ Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Texas) September 10 First LSU Home Game v. Northwestern State

’

PMH?

CHECK OUT THE NEW CIVILIAN WEBSITE: http :// sites . law . lsu . edu / civilian 2

L S U PAU L M . H E B E RT L AW C E N T E R

SBA State of Affairs

Another exciting year at Paul M. Hebert Law Center is upon us! If you are a first-year student, welcome to The Civilian—your hard-hitting news and gossip source, home to the mysterious Dr. Love, and monthly preview of the major events happening on campus. The 2Ls are currently enjoying a friendly divide amongst themselves between those who went to France and all those who are sick of hearing their stories from France, while the 3Ls wish they had gone to France this past summer. And to all you LL.M’s, bonjour! Your Student Bar Association and fellow student organizations Kaamil Kahn have been diligently planning many activities to help you get to know SBA President your peers outside of the classroom and provide an escape from your never-ending reading. Phi Alpha Delta kicks off the month with their annual Back to School Party, and the American Constitution Society continues the fun the next night. The next weekend is just as jumping with a few of our colleagues rocking out the Varsity on Saturday night. The SBA will also be sponsoring a student-professor team in the Baton Rouge Bar Association’s softball tournament that same weekend. On Sunday, the 2L Class will host the Welcome Back BBQ and Dessert Challenge, where you need to bring your best dessert to satisfy the chancellor’s sweet tooth and take home the grand prize. The Public Interest Law Society’s Day of Service is a great way to meet others outside of your class and an opportunity to give back to our local community. All of these activities and more are listed on our Facebook page and the SBA website, as well as in the many emails that will flood your inbox (Just kidding! Sort of). All students should sign up for our SBA Mentor Program. This is a great way for the 1Ls to meet older students, while the upperclassmen can help the next generation of PMHers learn the ropes and get a handle on the first year. To sign up, email Ashley Bynum, academic chair, at lbynum1@lsu.edu. Finally, brand new this year is the LL.M. Mentor Program to help acclimate our international guests with the LSU way of life. For more information, contact Eden Davis, International Law Society president, at edavi43@lsu.edu. I know I will see many of you in the library, but I hope to also see you at these great events hosted by your fellow classmates. If there is anything you wish to see happen at the Law Center, feel free to email me at kkhan4@lsu.edu, unless it is about parking or the escalator. Those issues are handled by your respective class presidents. Until next time,

So Yeah...This is Law School. hh, you made it. YOU are a law student. Go ahead, pat yourself on the back. Don’t be smug. You don’t want people to think you’re a gunner. Maybe just mentally give yourself a pat on the back. You made it to the big show. You have your Lani Gholston new MacBook Pro and the SBA Executive trusty backpack that helped Vice-President you survive undergrad. You’ve color coded a printout of your schedule and figured out the quickest way to

Editorial Board

Editor-in-Chief: Will Harris Managing Editor: Joseph Cefalu Associate Managing Editors: Lisa Martinez & Jessica Allain Chief Copy Editor: Natalie Messina

Staff Writers

Morgan Hargrove Brad Kelley Zach Capra Casey Neale Ross Tuminello Lauren Ross Anna Brown Jess Smith Melissa Buza

Columnists

Carlos Posas Sarena Gaylor Brithney Gardner Chanell McGaughy Jade Forouzanfar RJ Marse Dr. Love William Priestly Will Carter

Field Reporter Linda Matta

Staff Artist

Lauren Anderson

Design Team

Kristen Rowlett Hayne Beatrous Josh Doguet

Copy Editors

Kaamil Khan Student Bar Association Executive President

The Civilian Staff

school, as well as a back-up route because you already heard that Prof. Levasseur is relentless with 1Ls in his 8 a.m. Legal Traditions class. Top 10 percent, here you come. Before you get too carried away answering every question, or trying epically hard to evade ever answering a question, I want to share with—or remind you—about some of the obvious and not so obvious aspects of school. Work Hard. We’ve all heard it before, “work hard, play hard.” Much of law school involves working smart. Reading the material once may not be enough, but reading it twice without analyzing it either time may not be an effective use of your time either. Equally ineffective: “studying” with your best friends, even though you know you will accomplish Advice cont. on page 6

Sasha Dittmer Brent Cobb Sarah Aycock Samantha Aylward Kristen Guidry Timothy Brinks Ashley Schexnayder

Disclaimer: Views expressed in The Civilian, a designated public forum for student expression, do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the LSU Law Center or its student body. If you are interested in contributing to a topic or wish to provide us with corrections, please email TheCivilianLSU@gmail.com or speak to a member of the editorial staff. http://sites.law.lsu.edu/Civilian

THE CIVILIAN • August 2011

Chancellor’s Welcome D

ear Students:

The beginning of the school year is an exciting time for all of us at LSU Law. For our entering first-year students, this is truly a time of discovery— discovering the Jack Weiss challenges and Chancellor rewards of learning to “think like a lawyer,” making new friends who will share the law school experience with you every step of the way for the next three years, and learning to enjoy (or rediscovering from a professional school perspective) the pleasures of Baton Rouge and life on the beautiful LSU campus. For returning 2Ls and 3Ls, the challenges, the friendships and the pleasures are more familiar, but you, too, will continue to expand your intellectual and social horizons as you move through the upper-class years. Faculty and staff have spent the summer preparing for your arrival and to make your entry or “reentry” into the law school environment as smooth as possible. All of us look forward eagerly to hearing your footsteps in the halls—to the vibrant atmosphere that comes with your return. I hope that each of you will have a chance to meet and get to know the superbly qualified women and men who have joined our faculty over the summer. Professor Margaret Thomas comes to us from the University of California at Berkeley. She will teach Civil Procedure I in the Fall and Civil Procedure II and Federal Complex Litigation in the Spring. Professor Phillip Hackney, an LSU Law graduate and Baton Rouge native, joins us to teach tax law after a multi-year stint crafting tax policy at the Internal Revenue Service. Professor Hackney will teach Income Tax I in the Fall and Taxation of Tax Exempt Organizations and Partnership Taxation in the Spring. After finishing up his work on a MacArthur Foundation grant to develop a model juvenile justice clinic, Hector Linares will join the faculty as an assistant professor of Professional Practice, teaching the Juvenile Defense

Clinic Practicum and Course in both semesters. Mary Elizabeth (“Beth”) Williams, our new library director, comes to us from Columbia University Law School, where she served as Head of Public Services in the Diamond Law Library and Lecturer in Law, teaching multiple sections of the legal research portion of the required 1L legal research and writing course In January, Professor H. Alston Johnson, once a tenured member of our faculty and for many years a highly regarded practitioner and adjunct faculty member, will rejoin the resident faculty as a Professor of Professional Practice. In addition to his longtime offerings in Federal Courts and Conflict of Laws, Professor Johnson plans to teach the course in Louisiana Civil Procedure I, replacing retired Professor Howard L’Enfant. We also welcome our latest “Future Law Teacher Fellow,” Professor Mark Glover. Professor Glover comes to us from the Climenko Fellows program at Harvard Law School. He will join our second-year fellows, Professors Jennifer Camero and Andrew Kim, as teachers in the Legal Research and Writing Program this year. Our fellows will be honing their teaching skills and their scholarship preparatory to long-term careers in the legal academy. LSU Law is one of only a small number of law schools in the country to have a teaching fellowship program of this kind. In inaugurating the program, the faculty perceived a unique opportunity to introduce our students to the thinking and perspectives of these young scholars who will be making their mark in law schools across the nation in the years to come. Finally, I’m pleased to introduce three new senior staff members. Erin Guruli is our new Director of Career Services. Ms. Guruli has moved to Baton Rouge from Washington, D.C., where she has extensive experience in legal placement at the national level. Also joining the Career Services staff is Susan de la Houssaye, as Counselor and National Recruiting Coordinator. Ms. de la Houssaye, a Louisiana native, most recently served as recruiting coordinator at the New York office of a major national firm and previously as recruiting coordinator at the New Orleans office of a major Louisiana firm. For our Admissions Office, we are delighted to welcome Jenifer Finney as associate director of Admissions. Ms. Finney joins us from the University

of Idaho College of Law, where she served as Director of Admissions. In general, these are extraordinary times here at LSU Law. In recent years, we have witnessed positive, concrete changes in our academic program, extraordinary progress toward building the LSU Law “faculty of the future”, and a dramatic improvement in both the credentials and the diversity of our students. Equally important, the last few years have seen what I regard as a very healthy “spring awakening” among our students—a new LSU Law tradition of student commitment to and involvement in the ongoing efforts to enhance the school. I hope to see that tradition grow and prosper in the year to come. Of course, your law school also faces serious challenges. Cuts in our state funding will continue to impact the Law Center. Our highest priority is to preserve the core academic mission—the quality of our students and our faculty. At the same time, we also face a legal employment marketplace that is uncertain, especially for those of you whose dreams may take you beyond the borders of Louisiana. Although we cannot control all of these external factors, we pledge to do our best to work through them with you and to keep you informed so that you can assess how they will impact you. A final, personal word to our new 1Ls. Law school is an exciting time for new learning and new friends: it is not a boot camp. There is no need to approach the first year with dread or fear; in fact, anything but. We have “come a long way, baby” since the days when half the first year class failed. Today, our faculty is here to help you at every turn of the way, inside and outside the classroom. Students are our first priority here, and if we let you down in that regard, we want to know about it sooner rather than later. We often describe our legal education as “demanding yet personal.” The latter is just as important as the former. It is an exciting time to be here—a time of dramatic growth, change and innovation. We like to say that LSU Law is “on the move.” I hope that all of you, both new and returning students, are as happy to be part of the great story of LSU Law as we—your teachers, staff, and administration—are to have you here. Jack M.Weiss Chancellor

L S U PAU L M . H E B E RT L AW C E N T E R

Student Orgs Offer Involvement Opportunities Student Bar Association- Comprised of representatives from every class and section, the SBA hosts activities and works with other student clubs and organizations to promote a more balanced student life during your three years. Public Interest Law Society- If you’re passionate about pro bono work and public service, PILS is the group for you. This organization hosts an annual day of service, and it offers valuable information on ways to get Lani Gholston involved in the community. SBA Executive Louisiana Law Review- The La. Law Review is Vice-President dedicated to legal scholarship and writing. Every year 1Ls who display outstanding academic performance and writing skills are chosen to join the editorial staff as they work with faculty members through critical commentary, analysis and discussion of current cases and problems in the legal community. American Constitution Society-This group is truly “of the people.” The ACS aims to use the law to help people through debate, policy and outreach. Look for this new group to enrich the law school landscape through outreach and activism. Black Law Society- This all inclusive group seeks to promote diversity in the law school, as well as provide awareness and support for historically underrepresented groups within the law school community and local community. Christian Legal Society- The Christian Legal Society provides an opportunity to align Christian values with the pursuit of justice and academic study through fellowship, Bible studies and outreach. The Civilian- This student-run newspaper is published monthly, and it provides the law center community with current events and regular highlights of your fellow student. The Civilian is always a must read. Energy and Mineral Law Society- (Formerly the Oil and Gas Law Society) By hosting speakers and opportunities to meet practitioners, this group hopes to further students’ understanding of the practice of Energy and Mineral Law. Entertainment and Media Law Society- The sexy side of law is officially here. Through speakers and networking, this group seeks to foster an interest in entertainment and media law, as well as highlight developments within the field in Louisiana. Environmental Law Society- ELS strives to increase awareness about how the law and environment collide through education, speakers and relevant projects. Federalist Society- If you’re looking for a great debate of current events and want to learn more about the conservative or libertarian ideology, look no further. Increase your appreciation for various viewpoints by attending a Federalist event. Immigration Law Society- New to the scene, the Immigration Law Society complements the immigration clinic by increasing awareness about the rights of, and issues concerning, you guessed it, immigrants. Intellectual Property Law Society- IPLS will make you look at every advertisement and mp3 a little differently. The IPLS hosts speakers and events about patents, trademark, trade secrets and copyright law. Come as you are, no technical background required. International Law Society- This organization seeks to promote awareness about international issues in the legal community. Legal Association of Women- This “all students welcome” group promotes the presence of women in the legal community. Events range from volunteering in battered women’s shelters to self-defense.

Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers- (LACDL) Students interested in criminal defense will find a home here. This group focuses on pro bono opportunities and professional development in criminal defense. LACDL gives students an opportunity to meet criminal defense practitioners. LSU Law Football Club- Blow off some steam and raise money for a great cause by joining the Football Club for the annual Barristers Bowl. LSU Law Tailgate- What’s SEC football without SEC tailgating? Join your fellow law students for some good food and music before every home game at the law school tailgate. Everyone needs a study break, and it’s a great way to meet people. Moot Court- Moot Court is a student-run organization that collaborates with faculty and administration to develop their appellate advocacy skills. The Board annually hosts the Robert Lee Tullis Competition. Opportunities to join travelling competitive teams are available. OUTlaw- This new organization creates a safe space for students who identify as lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual or allies. Events are geared toward increasing awareness about alternative lifestyles and acceptance in the political and social community. Phi Alpha Delta- This internationally recognized legal fraternity focuses on professional development and service. R.A.D.I.C.A.L- The Recreational Association for Debating Issues of Constitutional American Law does exactly what the name suggests: it provides an opportunity for students to hear debates about current constitutional law issues. Tax Club- This group introduces students to several educational and professional opportunities in the tax law arena. Each spring, the Tax Club hosts the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA). Trial Advocacy- Trial Ad and participation in the Ira S. Flory Trial competitions give students the opportunity to develop their practical trial skills. Opportunities to join travelling competitive teams are available.

by Lauren Anderson 5

THE CIVILIAN • August 2011

The World Outside PMH Events You Missed While Studying

Welcome back to prison everyone! I jest. If this were prison, you would actually have time to read for leisure. But seriously, welcome back to another semester at PMH Law Center. If you are like me, then you don’t have much time to spend catching up on news. I’ll be doing my best to make life a little easier for Jade Forouzanfar you by providing a few stories Staff Writer to help you feel connected to life outside of PMH. I’d like to start with a story about something everyone has at least a cursory knowledge of: Facebook. You’ve heard of it, right? If not, I think you are going to need more than my help to bring you up to speed with what is happening in the world. We all have Facebook friends who make it their life’s mission to bludgeon us with status updates such as, “Ashley just watched Real World and it was super crazy!” Hey Ashley, I super don’t give a, well, you know. Something else you may have received courtesy of the Ashley’s of the Facebook-world is a Facebook game request. For example, I’m going to go out on a limb here and assume most everyone has heard of a little something called FarmVille. “Ashley’s barn was hit by a big storm. Please donate a board to help Ashley rebuild her barn.” I repeat, “Ashley, I don’t give a…” I thought I blocked you from my newsfeed last month. Well, if Consumer Watchdog has its way, Ashley and

a whole host of Facebook users may be using FEMA tarps like the rest of us. The Washington Post reported that in June the non-partisan group sent a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission. The basis of the claim involves the social networking site’s newly instituted credit system. The system uses virtual currency to allow its users to purchase items directly from Facebook instead of going through third-parties such as PayPal or directly to the game developers themselves. However, as of July 1, 2011, all games on Facebook had to use the site’s credit system with Facebook nabbing a cool 30 percent per transaction. For a little perspective, consider the fact that other payment systems, such as PayPal, charge a fee of less than 10 percent for similar services. With the market for virtual goods in the United States expected to reach $2.1 billion in 2011, this could have significant effects on consumers and competitors alike. Facebook has a reported 750 million users with about 150 million members added within the last six months. Critics are concerned that Facebook will use its power as the most popular social network to trap users into using its own currency system at the expense of competitors. The FTC is poised to launch an investigation into the antitrust claims. As of now, no formal charges have been brought, but Facebook could potentially face charges for using “anti-competitive tactics”. In other news, American based mogul, Rupert Murdoch is dealing with so many charges that he has decided to close the doors of one of longest running publications in Britain. Yes, it appears Christmas has come early, and the hot mess that is the News of the World (NotW) scandal is the gift that keeps on

Advice cont. from page 3 nothing. There is a time for work, and a time for play. It will take some time, but make a schedule and stick to it as much as possible. It will pay off in the end. For those of you coming straight from undergrad, this will most likely be more work than you’ve had to do in the past, and the reading will seem endless. For those of you who have worked or pursued graduate degrees, it will still seem like the work never ends. Just remember, everyone is suffering through Pennoyer together, for better or worse. Socialize. Your peers are a fascinating group of people. Take the time to get to know them. Everyone will be a little nervous, and some first impressions will be “interesting,” but give it time. Once the jitters wear off, you’ll find yourself on stage at Bogies or enjoying some music in the plaza

with some unexpected people. Step out of the box. It’s easy for us to stick to our comfort zones. We already know people from home, undergrad or a fraternity or sorority. Class sections make for instant camaraderie, and it takes effort to branch out. DO IT! Meeting people from out of state and people with completely different perspectives and backgrounds can be very fulfilling. Plus, the effort will be well worth the change of scenery come exam time when tensions are high. Get involved. Finally, get your monies worth! Most of us pay a little something to be here. Make the money work for you, and get involved with clubs and organizations. You’ll find that even though you’re tired after hours of reading, being a part of an organization offers something to look forward to, and can provide a great source of fulfillment.

giving. First, in a lovely piece of irony, NotW rival, The Guardian, broke the story that NotW had been hacking the phone lines of Britain’s Royal Family. However, like most global businessmen, Rupert Murdoch was prepared to throw someone under the bus to save his empire. So, Clive Goodman, NotW’s royal correspondent, took one for the team. He and private investigator Glenn Mulcaire were sentenced to four and six months, respectively, for their involvement. What information could be so important that these men would risk their jobs, reputations and freedom to illegally intercept? War? National conspiracy? No, the “kicker” here is that they risked and lost it all intercepting voicemails regarding Prince William’s knee injury. Earth shattering journalism or trash mag fodder? You be the judge. Second, we learn that NotW had been hacking the cell phones of celebrities, military officials and politicians from 2003 to 2007. Anyone else seeing a pattern here? Apparently not as those investigating the allegations had concluded that the higher ups at NotW were unaware of any illegal activity. This determination was made despite the fact that NotW has paid some $2 million in settlements relating to various phone-hacking claims throughout the years. Lastly, and by lastly I mean only that I am reaching my word limit, NotW released its final publication on July 9, 2011. After 168 years in print, NotW sounded off with a headline reading simply, “THANK YOU AND GOODBYE”. Undoubtedly, even more will come out as the story continues to unfold. Until then, we will just have to wait and see what happens in life outside of PMH.

The

Buf fe

Zon

L S U PAU L M . H E B E RT L AW C E N T E R

Section Previews SECTION ONE CONTRACTS Prof. Holmes: Holmes is not a class in which to slack off, nor is it something to fear. While he does cold call (sometimes on the same person for the entire class period), Holmes will never try to trip you up. As long as you have read the cases and know the facts, you’re golden. And usually, once you’re called on, you’re safe for at least two weeks. His dry sense of humor and tendency to be slightly repetitive make this class clear and easy to follow. The format of his exams has not changed too much throughout the years, so going over old tests is a must. As long as you keep up with the readings and skim the case facts before class, Contracts with Holmes will be a walk in the park. TORTS Prof. Corbett: Rather than your stereotypical Socratic pressure cooker, a Torts class with Corbett is slow paced and full of great stories. However, don’t let his relaxed classroom demeanor lull you into complacency when it comes exam time. Corbett’s exams are a marathon and to do well on them you must really manage your time. The exam hypotheticals are often far-fetched and to write a solid answer you need to be able to spot issues on the fly and step through the legal analysis without skipping a beat. Don’t stress too much about formalities of the English language. CIVIL PROCEDURE I Prof. Thomas: Thomas comes to the Law Center from UCBerkeley after practicing as an appellate attorney in Los Angeles and clerking for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. As this is her inaugural year at the Law Center, 1Ls should send us some reviews to help us with this section in the future. CRIMINAL LAW Prof. Levy: Levy is very enthusiastic! He really cares about his students and encourages them to share their opinions in class. Levy takes a very theoretical approach to criminal law which facilitates great class discussions. When preparing for his final, be sure to pay close attention to the sample answer he gives to students. LEGAL TRADITIONS AND SYSTEMS Prof. Levasseur: If you dig French charm and civilian thought, then Levassur is for you. There is a lot of reading and the exam is tough, but you will walk away knowing way too much about the Civil Code and Roman history. Remember, bring your Civil Code but leave those nasty comments at home.

SECTION TWO

CONTRACTS Prof. Bowers: Once you get past talk of swamis and alligator mating rituals, you’ll realize that Bowers’ requires significant amounts of outside learning and research so you can be prepared to think about the practical aspects of contract law. If you can crack Bowers and his economics and practice based approach to contracts then you’ll be good to go.

TORTS Prof. Church: Church is a good professor that is entertaining enough to keep you from falling asleep in class. And if you do fall asleep, his laugh is loud enough to wake you up. He’ll call on a few people each day to discuss the facts of the assigned cases. Skim the cases before class to be prepared in case you get called on. As far as preparing for the exam: get your hands on an old outline, review the pertinent section of the outline before class, and pull it up on your computer during class so you can supplement it with your own notes. If you want to make your own outline from scratch, type up the index from the textbook and fill it in each night when you read the cases. Don’t spend too much time memorizing every aspect of every case unless he makes a big deal about a certain case. The cases assigned for reading are mostly to help you understand the application of tort principles. The exam will mostly consist of knowing the elements of intentional torts, being able to constuct a negligence analysis, and understanding other concepts such as vicarious liability, products liability, and a few others. The exam will be very mechanical, and he will make it very clear during class how he wants you to respond to the issues that he is covering. So be sure to take notes when he talks about how to answer a particular issue when it comes up on the exam. CIVIL PROCEDURE I Prof. Bockrath: The material in the beginning of Civ Pro I is challenging, and “The Rath” expects his students to know the ins and outs of every case. The first time you hear him say, “Mr./Mrs. So-and-so, what’s the holding in Pennoyer v. Neff?” you will truly understand the fear that the Socratic Method can instill in 1Ls, but if you’re prepared for class, Bockrath will gladly walk you through the issues. Bockrath is one of the most helpful professors at LSU Law. Take advantage of his office hours and his generous offer to grade as many practice tests as you’re willing to take. The best way to succeed on his exam is to give him exactly what he wants and nothing that he doesn’t. For Rath-isms, refer to www.therath.com. CRIMINAL LAW Prof. Diamond: Diamond’s class tends to revolve around oftrepeated maxims (e.g. “Crime is whatever the legislature says it is”) and is driven by his theatrical delivery of lectures. It’s an acquired taste for many, but it pays off to go ahead and work hard on acquiring it. His approach to the subject of criminal law is to compare the standards used in common law and Model Penal Code jurisdictions, and the exam will test you on those differences. Make a chart. Prof. Diamond’s criminal law exam is perhaps one of the most cerebral in nature at the Law Center, and many students remember enjoying it until they receive their grade. This is one class where it pays off to have an intellectual, abstract understanding of the subject that you are able to apply to a factual analysis; pouring your outline onto 18 typed pages won’t do you any good here. LEGAL TRADITIONS AND SYSTEMS Prof. Moreteau: Everyone will complain about this class no matter who teaches it, and many will opt to slack off on the historical, often Reviews cont. on page 8

THE CIVILIAN • August 2011 Reviews cont. from page 7 theoretical reading assignments to focus on more concrete subjects like torts or contracts. If you’re interested in legal philosophy, civil law history or statutory interpretation, you can use this to your advantage by spending time on the material. Because 1Ls tend to ignore this class, the return on your investment can be substantial. Spend your time studying by working through Moreteau’s old exams. They are remarkably similar from year to year.

SECTION THREE CONTRACTS Prof. Bockrath: Joseph T. Bockrath’s reputation precedes him, but don’t believe everything you’ve heard. While he does take humor in watching both prepared and unprepared 1L’s squirm when he calls on them in class, he is also one of the only professors that will review as many practice exams as you can turn in. His exams have strict word limits, so you should spend the semester turning in practice exam answers and looking at his old exams. Prof. Morris: Morris does a good job breaking the concepts down. Although his handwriting is awful, you appreciate that he takes the time to write problems and solutions out for you rather than just lecture. His exam follows a similar format each year so make sure you do practice exams beforehand. Examples and Explanations: Contracts will be your best friend in this class. TORTS Prof. Levy: Fairly new to the teaching world, Levy will once again have some fresh minds to blast with criminal theory...oh wait, this is Torts. Levy has a strong background in criminal theory, but do not fret, he also knows his Torts. He will meticulously break down case law and statutes, but don’t get bogged down in every detail and exception to each rule; be sure you can still see the big picture. Also,

be prepared to breeze through plenty of power point slides during each class (Hint: he puts them on the internet so they can easily be printed and referenced to in the OPEN BOOK EXAM). Lastly, he is not a stickler for the Socratic Method, although he appreciates and maybe even rewards participation and volunteers. CIVIL PROCEDURE I Prof. Devlin: Don’t let the maniacal laugh fool you: the man knows Civil Procedure. Civ Pro with Devlin is probably the most engaging class of your first year. Bet on the fact that you will get called on, and, if you haven’t done the reading, get called out. Because he wears the tie, he’s the one who asks the questions. CRIMINAL LAW Prof. Joseph: Criminal Law with “Cheney Joe” is like story time with your favorite uncle. V.C. Joseph cracks himself up with hypos he creates with characters Pee Wee and Joseph, who keep the class rolling with laugher as well. Don’t expect any straight answers from this instructor, but if you keep up with the assignments and pay attention to his hypos, the material will click into place. His exam is jam packed with issues, but is both entertaining and fair. LEGAL TRADITIONS AND SYSTEMS Prof. Lonegrass: Lonegrass is great for Legal Traditions. Outlines are very important for this class. While her exams are long and intense, she is a fair grader. She provides several review sessions throughout the semester. 1Ls should attend the review sessions to get a good idea of what she is looking for on the final. She gives extra points on the final for perfect attendance. Volunteering is important in this class. She does not really use the Socratic Method.

Dr. Love’s Advice for Students, New and Old

Hello, little 1Ls. I know you’re begging, if not paying, for any type of law school advice you can get. Fortunately for you, I’ll be giving you free love advice . . . All. Year. Long. Am I certified to give you love advice? Not a chance. I’m single, so obviously any love philosophy I have carried with me thus far has failed, or maybe it has saved me from hitching it with a high maintenance trash bag, take your pick. However, you should, and you will, listen to me. Let’s face it, I could tell you that only morons use yellow high lighters and that clear highlighters are the new hip thing. You’d be half way through this semester before realizing how much I screwed you. Speaking of screwing, listen up. Take a look around your first class and mentally note who you do and do not find attractive; it might be best for you to write this down. Go back to that list around exam time and notice how your list under

the “attractive” column has grown substantially. This phenomenon is called “LOSS” or Lack of Selection Syndrome. PMH is going to do something to your psyche that you may not have experienced before unless you were homeschooled or spent a significant amount of time in South Dakota. For women, your intellectual and physiological standards will become indirectly proportional. You will start thinking about the viability of a man’s career while forgetting that he looks like the Hunchback of Notre Dame. I received a very good piece of advice from my boss this summer: “Love does not trump money.” As you scratch and claw through this semester you will realize that size does indeed matter, that is, the potential size of a man’s bank account, at least. After your 2L year, when you’re revving up for potential job offers and the bar exam, you will discover that independence is completely overrated. Most men at PMH will experience the exact opposite of women. Sometime around December, when you’re tired of your female colleagues’ game of “hard to get/let everyone at PMH get her,” you are going to stand atop of the law school escalator and loudly denounce any standards in women you may have left. The logical

next step for you gentlemen is Reggie’s (a.k.a. shooting undergrads in a barrel). Have no shame in this. Don’t let those PMH ladies convince you to jump through hoops just because they are getting a J.D., $100,000 of debt, wrinkles and no job after three years. Low maintenance is good, especially during the stress of law school. PMH women love to manipulate you into committing before making you wait 8 months to get lucky to preserve their “professional reputation.” Elliot Spitzer has been with more professional women than the ones walking around here in their skirt suit facades. This manipulation is shown through satanic little phrases that morph you into a boyfriend, such as: “You can’t have your cake and eat it, too,” or “You can’t drink the milk for free without taking the cow.” GO TO REGGIES. Find as many education or social work majors as possible. Drop that law student line you’ve been practicing and BINGO! You can always have your cake and eat it, too. Just shop at the right bakery. Next time some female lawyer wannabe utters the milk line, remind her that all women turn into cows eventually. Enjoy your first year, 1Ls. Remember: objects inside the law center are bigger train wrecks than they appear.

L S U PAU L M . H E B E RT L AW C E N T E R

L S U PAU L M . H E B E R T L AW C E N T E R

y ou r Mcclain SchonekaS Age: 26 Hometown: New Orleans Undergrad: University of Georgia What animal would you be and why? A tiger- I don’t imagine I need to explain. Law school is... in process. Your most interesting job? Sales Strategist at Old New Orleans Rum Distillery How would you spend your ideal day? At a crawfish boil in South Louisiana with family and friends What 3 things would you bring with you if you were deserted on a desert island? People, water, and a

fishing pole

15 m in u tes

If you could be invisible for a day what would you do? Go to North Korea What is your favorite word? Yes. What is your favorite candy bar? An Ice Cream Snickers Bar

If you could be one famous person, who would it be? Timothy Geithner Least favorite thing about PMH? Yet to be determined

Age: 22 Hometown: Beautiful Moss Bluff, LA. The industrial hub of Southwest LA. Where the skies are orange and the girls are too! Undergrad: LSU “Who Dat!”

What 3 things would you bring with you if you were deserted on a desert island? The cast from Swiss Family Robinson, the definitive Phil Collins collection, and a disco ball.

What animal would you be and why? A Lisa Frank Unicorn. Why? Why not.

If you could be invisible for a day what would you do? Sneak into John Boehner’s house and switch the labels on his spray tan and tooth whitener.

How would you spend your ideal day? I’d steal my grandma’s canoe and do hoodrat stuff with Latarian

Sarah DelahouSSaye Age: 24 on the first day of school (August 15th) Hometown: Nola / Mandeville Undergrad: LSU

What is your favorite word? precipitation If you could be one famous person, who would it be? RuPaul

1L Why did you decide to go to law school? to relive high school. This time around, I’m going to join the football team, go to the prom, and get pregnant. Or not… I think I’m too old for teenage pregnancy. Favorite law school event? The Semi-Annual PMH Rolling Backpack Races in the parking lot Anything else you want to tell us? Yes, if anyone is interested in making a Detroit Spinners cover band please let me know. Help my dreams become a reality.

2L In a perfect world, I’d decorate cupcakes instead of law school.

If you could be invisible for a day what would you do? excel at creeping (even if facebook makes it too easy)?

Favorite law school event? Halloween Party

Law school is... almost over.

What is your favorite candy bar? Hershey’s Chocolate

What 3 things would you bring with you if you were deserted on a desert island? my dog Lucy, sunscreen, the Physician’s Desk Reference, hollowed out, inside, waterproof matches, iodine tablets,

Anything else you want to tell us? My younger sister is a 2L.

beet seeds, protein bars, NASA blanket…. (Dwight Schrute anyone?)

What is your favorite word? inconceivable.

How would you spend your ideal day? exploring a new place in another country.

Favorite law school event? Football Tailgate

Diet Coke or Regular Coke? No preference really, just not the kind of coke that Amy Winehouse did.

What animal would you be and why? anyone that hibernates… I like to sleep.

Your most interesting job? definitely not auditing.

Favorite movie? The Big Lebowski

Diet Coke or Regular Coke? Neither. Milton on the Atchafalaya. I want to do it because it’s fun, it’s fun to do bad things.

Your most interesting job? making fake anthrax for the army.

In a perfect world, I’d do lawyering instead of law school.

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be? Egypt

Taylor Gay

Law school is... the weirdest bar I’ve ever been to.

Why did you decide to go to law school? So I can practice law in Louisiana.

If you could be one famous person, who would it be? Lady Gaga, she’s godmother to Elton John’s son. Diet Coke or Regular Coke? Diet, duh… I’m getting married in 4 months. Why did you decide to go to law school? So I can practice law in Louisiana.

Favorite movie? – hmmm, The Princess Bride (Inconceivable!) Anything else you want to tell us? That is not my child, I am just a proud aunt. And, I think my fiancé likes law school more than me…

3L 1

L S U PAU L M . H E B E R T L AW C E N T E R THE CIVILIAN • August 2011

WHAT

DO you

THINK? “What advice do you have for the 1L class?” The 15 min & What Do You Think sections compiled by Civilian Field Reporter Linda Matta

“My advice to the 1L class would be to try and work smart, not hard and enjoy your year!” Jessica Lewis, 2L

“Clear your Friday schedule for some quality time on the dance floor at Bogies...Trust me you will need it!” Jayne Wabeke, 2L

“Stay clear of Phil Broderick after 10pm at GIFs.” Sasha Dittmer, 3L

“Don’t let the stress of law school keep you from finding the best outlines.” Britt Bush, 3L

La. Legislative Session Behind Us, Elections Coming Up The 800-pound gorilla in the room during this year’s Louisiana legislative session was the state’s budget problems. The state is facing a $1 billion budget hole that is widely expected to increase because of the rising costs of Brad Kelly Medicaid and the expiration Staff Writer of federal stimulus funds. The session ended in an agreement on a $25 billion state budget for 2012 that reduces spending in most state agencies but maintains the same level of funding for higher education. “Leaving aside the possibility of some last minute adjustments to our state appropriation, the Law Center emerged from the 2011 legislative session with what amounts to a standstill budget for the 2011-12 fiscal year,” Chan. Jack M. Weiss said. The Law Center’s direct state appropriation has continued to drop in recent years. As a result, the Law Center has been forced to rely more heavily on tuition revenues as a source of operating funds to sustain its educational program.

“Our challenge is to maintain an excellent program in the face of declining state support without raising tuition too much,” Chan. Weiss said. “At this point, we are still a very good bargain in legal education, and I want to keep it that way as best I can.” Another major fight this legislative session involved the 4-cent cigarette tax set to expire in 2012. Both the House and Senate agreed to extend the tax, but Gov. Bobby Jindal vetoed the bill; the House fell short of the votes needed for an override. House members, however, cleverly attached the tax extension onto a constitutional amendment that directs future tobacco settlement proceeds to state college scholarships. Many of Jindal’s top priorities were rejected, including an attempt to merge two New Orleans public universities and a plan to sell off several prisons. Legislators also shot down Jindal-supported plans to raise college tuition and create a single governing board for higher education. Louisiana will have several important elections this fall, including the governor, lieutenant governor and secretary of state races. Jindal is largely expected to coast to victory in the absence of a legitimate Democratic opponent and $9 million in his campaign warchest. The more competitive race will be for secretary of

state, a position which many candidates have had their eyes on since Jay Dardenne won a special lieutenant governor election last year. This race is expected to feature a crowded field of candidates. Likely Republicans include unelected incumbent Secretary of State Tom Schedler, House Speaker Jim Tucker, Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources Scott Angelle and Rep. Walker Hines. The likely Democratic candidate is Caroline Fayard, an attorney and unsuccessful candidate for last year’s lieutenant governor race. Perhaps the most decisive battleground in state politics this year will be for the House and Senate. Just last year the Republicans won slim majorities in the House and Senate for the first time since Reconstruction. Republicans hope to capitalize on these recent gains and are aggressively targeting a number of Democratic officials across the state. Another interesting story in state politics is that former governor and LSU Law alumnus Edwin Edwards was released from federal prison this year. He recently married a 32-year-old woman who contacted him while he was in prison; he is 84. The former governor remarked, “A man is only as old as the woman he feels.”

L S U L SPUA U P ALU LM M. . HHEE BB EE RRTT L LA A W WC E CN TE ENR T E R

Summer In Lyon 2011

1 11

THE CIVILIAN • August 2011

LSU Law Center Map

Good Luck, 1Ls!