Drake Law School in Iowa Law Schools
Drake University Law School
Introduction
Drake University Law School is part of Drake University, located in Des Moines, Iowa.
Founded in 1865, it is one of the oldest law schools in Iowa and has a longstanding reputation for providing quality legal education.
Known for its emphasis on practical legal training, ethics, and public service.
Position Among Iowa Law Schools
Iowa has two ABA-accredited law schools:
University of Iowa College of Law (Iowa City)
Drake University Law School (Des Moines)
Drake Law stands out for its focus on practical skills and close ties to Iowa’s legal community, especially in Des Moines, the state capital and hub of government and business activity.
Academic Programs
Offers the Juris Doctor (JD) degree with various concentrations and opportunities for specialization.
Also offers joint degree programs such as JD/MBA.
Emphasizes clinical education and externships, leveraging its location in the state capital for access to courts, government agencies, and law firms.
Strong programs in:
Business law
Intellectual property law
Health law
Dispute resolution and mediation
Notable Features
Practical training focus: Drake Law stresses hands-on learning through clinics and internships.
Clinics include:
Civil Practice Clinic
Criminal Defense Clinic
Intellectual Property Clinic
Located in downtown Des Moines, it offers students opportunities to work with government agencies, nonprofits, and private firms.
The law school has a well-regarded legal writing program.
Strong ethics curriculum integrated throughout.
Contribution to Iowa Legal Landscape
Drake Law graduates populate Iowa’s judiciary, legal firms, and public sector.
The school’s location in the capital facilitates student involvement in legislative processes, regulatory agencies, and policy work.
Faculty engage in scholarship that influences Iowa law, especially in areas like administrative law, health law, and dispute resolution.
Relevance to Iowa Case Law
Although law schools themselves are generally not parties to cases, Drake Law’s alumni and faculty have significantly impacted Iowa jurisprudence.
Judges educated at Drake have contributed to decisions in the Iowa Supreme Court and other courts.
Faculty scholarship has been cited in legal opinions and legislative reforms within Iowa.
Notable Alumni
Many former Iowa judges and attorneys general are Drake Law alumni.
Alumni often serve in leadership roles within Iowa’s legal and governmental institutions.
Examples include:
Judges on the Iowa Supreme Court and District Courts
State legislators and public officials
Comparison with University of Iowa College of Law
| Feature | Drake University Law School | University of Iowa College of Law |
|---|---|---|
| Year Established | 1865 | 1865 |
| Location | Des Moines, IA | Iowa City, IA |
| Emphasis | Practical skills, public service | Research, academic rigor |
| Ranking | Regional prominence | Nationally ranked, top 100 |
| Clinical Programs | Strong, hands-on clinics | Extensive, broad clinical offerings |
Summary
Drake University Law School plays a vital role in legal education in Iowa, especially for students seeking practical skills and opportunities within the state’s capital. It has a rich tradition of producing lawyers who serve in Iowa’s courts and government, and its faculty contribute to the development of Iowa law through scholarship and public engagement.
RELATED Blog
0 comments