Veterans Clinic

Serving Those Who Served

Since its founding in 2012, the Baylor Law Veterans Clinic has provided free legal services to a veteran population of over 75,000 in our Central Texas service area, many of whom cannot afford to hire an attorney.

Growing up in a family with a history of military service, Baylor Law Professor Bridget Fuselier founded the clinic after having witnessed firsthand the many men and women who served their country, only to be forgotten after their years of service. While helping veterans and their spouses navigate issues following their service, the clinic also provides an invaluable training ground for student volunteers.

Under attorney supervision, third-year Baylor Law student Javier Cabanillas recently assisted a Gulf War veteran in obtaining and collecting a judgment for over three times his wrongfully-withheld security deposit.

Students gain hands-on experience working with Baylor Law professors and volunteer attorneys in civil legal areas ranging from family law, to consumer debt and bankruptcy issues, to real estate disputes. Unlike other law school clinics serving veterans, Baylor law provides a referral service for continuing legal services through pro bono attorneys. And in some instances, the clinic takes on cases in-house, with students helping see the case all the way through to resolution.

Since 2012, over 1,900 veterans and their families have received legal assistance through the clinic. But the rewards don’t end there. Having the chance to do substantive, practical work while helping veterans lessen their burdens provides an eye-opening experience for students. Most come away not only having enhanced their lawyering skills, they enter practice with a passion for pro bono work—along with a newfound appreciation for those who sacrifice in the service of our nation to defend the rule of law.

Qualifications:

Applicants for services must qualify under the income guidelines provided by the Texas Access to Justice Foundation, which stipulates 200% of the federal poverty line and below. The clinic provides legal advice and services to veterans and their spouses in McLennan County and its surrounding counties: Bell, Bosque, Coryell, Falls, Hill, and Limestone

Location:

Heart of Texas One Stop, 2010 La Salle Avenue, Waco, TX

Contact:

If you’re a veteran with a civil legal issue, or a Baylor Law student interested in getting involved, please contact the clinic at (254) 710-4244 or online at LegalClinics@baylor.edu.

For more information, please contact clinic director Joshua G. Borderud.