The Politics of Law School Engagement in Poster-Disaster Relief Efforts

Go Back

Session Type: AALS Programs

Session Capacity: N/A

Location: N/A

Room: Wilson Room

Floor: Third Floor

In the past ten years, natural disasters such as hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Katrina, Maria, Rita, and Sandy, have brought to the forefront the need to quickly respond to legal issues and services that arise post-disaster. In the time since Katrina, clinicians have learned how to engage the academy, how to set up delivery services systems, and how to create shared platforms that can address needs in multiple locations. Despite this progression, there continue to be obstacles that prevent law schools from quickly mobilizing.  This session will explore the obstacles and opportunities that exist in law schools, and specifically in clinics, to permit law school faculty to quickly respond to the needs in the community and create a national network.  The session leaders will encourage discussion about law school clinic relationships with local bar associations and legal aid organization. They will also discuss various curricular structures that allow quick response and foster student engagement. We will discuss specific ongoing efforts that address the need in Florida, Puerto Rico, and Texas. Specifically, we will discuss FEMA Appeal coordination amongst law schools, the need for representation for immigrants and other vulnerable populations, and analysis of FEMA’s response to each disaster.  This session will employ techniques to engage the audience in thinking through an emergency response in post-disaster recovery efforts.