Sudent Legal Aid Office

Student Defender Program

Student Defenders are undergraduate students attending the University of Maryland, College Park. They assist fellow students who are facing university charges relating to the Code of Academic Integrity, the Code of Student Conduct and Resident Life Rights and Responsibilities. Student Defenders are chosen from Student Legal Aid Interns who apply at the end of their internship. Those selected receive extensive training on university procedures and on how to advocate on behalf of student-clients.

Responsibilities

Student Defenders assist clients in preparing for a hearing or conference, act as an advocate during the proceedings and can assist with any necessary appeals. Student Defenders can advise students before a Preliminary Interview, but they do not provide representation at the interview.

Student Defenders maintain regular office hours during the semester, totaling about 7 hours per week. They also attend a weekly office meeting and represent students at hearings, which usually take place on weekday evenings.

Eligibility and Benefits

Students are eligible to apply if they have completed the Undergraduate Legal Aid Office internship program and have at least two semesters remaining before graduation.

Student Defenders are paid employees of the office.