The SMU Dedman School of Law is seeking a full-time Director to establish and operate its new VanSickle Family Law Clinic. This is a non-tenure track position. This Clinic will provide legal assistance for low-income North Texas residents in matters such as divorce, annulment, paternity actions, custody and visitation, as well as child and spousal support. The initial contract term is one year, renewable for additional one to three year terms.

QUALIFICATIONS: J.D. degree required. Candidates must have an excellent academic record, at least five (5) years of family law legal experience, and must be licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas by the end of 2015.  Board certification in family law is preferred. Prior teaching experience and prior experience in running a legal clinic are also preferred. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: Among other things, the Clinic Director will 1) establish policies, protocols, and procedures that govern the operation of the Clinic, 2) develop and teach a graded Clinic seminar that focuses on core practice issues relevant to family law, applicable federal and state law, procedural and ethical issues involved in the legal representation of parties in family law matters, and attendant litigation skills; 3) supervise and evaluate approximately eight students per semester as they represent clients in family law matters, and, 4) ensure compliance with the requirements of any applicable endowment agreements.  Involvement in the community and in relevant local, state, and national Bar groups will be beneficial in advancing the mission of the Clinic and will be encouraged. The Clinic Director will be the lead attorney on all VanSickle Family Law Clinic cases. During school vacations and summer months, the Clinic Director will be fully responsible for maintaining the Clinic’s docket, i.e., handling field work, correspondence, mediations, hearings, trials, etc.

SALARY:  Paid monthly on a 12-month contract.  Full faculty benefits; salary commensurate with experience.

APPLICATIONS: Please send a cover letter and resume to:

SMU Dedman School of Law – Dean’s Office

Contact: Betty Alexander

P. O. Box 750116

Dallas, Texas 75275-0116

REF: Position Number – 00053687

SMU will not discriminate in any employment practice, education program, or educational activity on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. SMU's commitment to equal opportunity includes nondiscrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. The Associate Vice President, Office of Institutional Access and Equity, has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies. Hiring is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a background check. The committee will continue to accept applications until the position is filled.