The “Lawyer Incubator Pilot Project” supports new lawyers who want to pursue solo or small firm practice in Vermont and in the process help provide legal services in underserved populations and geographic areas of the state. The program helps new lawyers by building their competence and confidence through trainings and mentorship.
The 18-month pilot project will run through September 2015 and, if successful, continue in future years.
Three Vermont Law School alumni—Kate Thomas ’13, Vanessa Brown ’12 and Erica Lewis ’12—are the first pilot participants. They are in the process of creating their own businesses with guidance from the VBA and VLS faculty.
“We are pleased to assist these promising young attorneys as they learn to develop and manage successful law practices and serve Vermont residents in need of their help,” said Professor Margaret Barry, associate dean for clinical and experiential programs at Vermont Law School, ranked No. 18 in the nation for clinical training. “The Lawyer Incubator Pilot Project reflects Vermont Law School’s commitment to using the power of the law to make a difference in the lives of Vermonters.”
Barry, who practices law at the nonprofit South Royalton Legal Clinic, facilitates the program with Mary Ashcroft, pro bono coordinator for the Vermont Bar Association.
For more information about the Lawyer Incubator Pilot Project, or about clinical training at Vermont Law School, email mbarry@vermontlaw.edu or call 802-831-1036. For more information about the Vermont Bar Association, email mashcroft@vtbar.org or call 802-223-2020.