Regent Law News

Grace Pandithurai named Alumna of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Wed, 08 May 2013 19:23:00 +0000

"When I was a kid, I wanted to be a Broadway star," said Grace Pandithurai, the 2013 recipient of the Regent University Alumni Association's Alumnus of the Year award. Pandithurai, '10 (Law) (shown right, accepting award from Founder and Chancellor Dr. M.G. "Pat" Robertson) always longed to star in Elton John's musical adaptation of Aida. However, her parents—who raised Pandithurai in a traditional Indian home—had different plans
for her.

"My dad looked at me and said, 'Indian people don't do this; you can be a lawyer, a doctor or a computer scientist,'" said Pandithurai.

Pandithurai's father would remind her of the hardships, bribery and corruption he witnessed in his homeland. He had a special interest in the United States' legal system, which—despite Pandithurai's dreams of Broadway—instilled within her a love of pursuing law and justice.

"Since [my father] was so passionate, I became passionate," said Pandithurai.

However, Pandithurai's passion for music is a part of her day-to-day working environment as the Assistant District Attorney in Wichita Falls, Texas. There she is charged with the emotionally-challenging work as a prosecutor, representing children who are victims of sexual assault.

"I listen to a lot of worship music when I'm prepping cases," said Pandithurai. "And I belt it out at the top of my lungs."

Pandithurai began working for the state of Texas two years ago, and immediately began putting the values of servant leadership and ethics she learned at Regent into practice. In the midst of what she considers the "most heart-wrenching job" she's ever had, it's Pandithurai's Christian faith that holds her together.

Day-by-day, she confronts sexual predators and encourages her young—too young—clients to share their story. Her role in her clients' lives is synonymous with "pulling out the thorn" from the calloused wounds of rape victims, Pandithurai explained.

"When you pull the thorn out of your hand, there's a little hole—and it hurts for a little bit, but once it's gone, it's gone," said Pandithurai. "You'll have a scar, but the pain isn't there."

Though it may initially hurt to agitate a victim's sense of stability from the trauma of assault, according to Pandithurai, telling the truth is the first step of recovering and healing.

"I think telling the truth gives the victim a little bit of power back, because they realize they're probably preventing that from happening to somebody else," said Pandithurai. "And I want them to know that they have someone who is going to fight tooth-and-nail to make sure that they get justice."

Pandithurai reminds herself of the men who were tenacious in the pursuit of taking their paralyzed friend to the feet of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. Just as they stopped short of nothing to ensure their friend had the opportunity to be healed, Pandihurai does all that she can to infuse hope into the victims she comes in contact with.

"We all need to live our lives with that kind of passion and servant mindset that we're willing to do whatever it takes to get others to the feet of Jesus," said Pandithurai. "This is the life I want to live, not just professionally, but personally."

Learn more about Regent University Alumni Association.

By Brett Wilson
Photo courtesy of Alex Perry

Virginia Governor Addresses Executive Leadership Series

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 06 May 2013 18:07:00 +0000

Regent University's Executive Leadership Series (ELS) welcomed Virginia Governor Robert "Bob" McDonnell '89 (Law and Government) at its monthly luncheon on Wednesday, May 1.

McDonnell, a former lieutenant colonel in the United States Army and former Attorney General of Virginia, spoke candidly about the qualifications of a successful leader before a crowd of 500 at the Chesapeake Conference Center.

"Most of what I can tell you about leadership I've learned the hard way," McDonnell said. "It's one thing to know principles in your heart, but to have them tested is another thing entirely."

McDonnell used his breadth of personal experiences to outline the keys to leading successfully. "First, if you're going to enter leadership, you have to know what you believe in," he said. "Storms of life will always come, and you will be tested. You have to be able to stand firm in what you believe."

Second, "surrounding yourself with good people is critically important. I surround myself with outstanding support," McDonnell said, praising his staff members and advisors. "But leaders also must have the wisdom to let them do their jobs. Effort is nice, but results matter. Equip your people; then let them do what you've asked them to do in order to get results."

Quoting Jim Collins' research of management published in the book "Good to Great," McDonnell then differentiated between top-tier leaders and mediocre leaders. "The defining characteristic of the Level 5 leader was the 'X factor': humility."

This is where the concept of servant leadership is born out. "Great leaders are ambitious and driven to get things done, but not for themselves," McDonnell explained. "They do it for the organization and to move others forward."

The Bible affirms this idea in the gospel of Matthew with the words of Jesus: "the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve" (20:28).

"So much of servant leadership boils down to humility," McDonnell said, referencing President Reagan's leadership role in the non-violent fall of the Iron Curtain as an example. "It's amazing what you can get done when you don't care who gets the credit."

Next, McDonnell emphasized the importance of vision and measurement. "My team sets out a strategic plan, and then we have regular meetings to inspect and measure results," he explained.

He also encouraged leaders to keep their focus. "There's only so much you can do well," he said, citing his initial gubernatorial campaign plan with 55 points on it. The ultimate plan was pared down to three points and one overarching theme: "Bob's for Jobs." So far, McDonnell has made good on that campaign, as Virginia has one of the lowest unemployment rates east of the Mississippi River.

Lastly, McDonnell expounded upon the importance of having people get on board with the vision. "You might have the best ideas in the world, but it doesn't matter if you don't have 51 percent of the vote to carry them out. You have to communicate the vision and get people on board."

All of his accomplishments as governor, from the recently passed transportation bill to the budgetary surplus the state has maintained during his term, "have been made possible by people working together to get things done," he concluded.

McDonnell left the audience with reflections on America's leadership through history and thoughts on his favorite U.S. president, George Washington. "Washington could have been king, but he willingly walked away from power for the good of the nation," he said. "These values that make America the greatest nation in the world are what have brought us so much prosperity. If we will follow the admonitions of our forefathers, we will continue to be the greatest nation in the world."

Visit the ELS website for more information about upcoming speakers.

By Amanda Morad
Photo by Alex Perry

Congratulations to Regent Law February Bar Takers

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:11:00 +0000

Pass rates for all Virginia Bar Exam applicants and for law schools in Virginia:

		First-time Takers Percentage	Overall Percentage
All Virginia Bar Exam Applicants		65.71%	57.45%

Virginia Law Schools:
	Appalachian School of Law	25.00%	42.86%
	College of William and Mary	50.00%	61.11%
	George Mason University	90.00%	75.00%
	Liberty University	100.00%	64.29%
	Regent University	66.67%	77.27%
	University of Richmond	45.45%	50.00%
	University of Virginia	100.00%	90.48%
	Washington and Lee University	57.14%	40.00%

Career & Alumni Services Director Recognized for Community Service

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:55:00 +0000

Regent University's Law Career & Alumni Services director, Darius Davenport, recently received the Norfolk Portsmouth Bar Association's (NPBA) Walter E. Hoffman Community Service Award for his leadership encouraging the legal community's positive impact on Hampton Roads. NPBA president Gary Bryant, the head of the litigation practice at Wilcox & Savage in Norfolk, Va., presented the award to Davenport.

"We are incredibly proud of Darius and the work he has done benefiting the local community," said Jeffrey Brauch, dean of Regent Law. "Regent Law's Community Service Day has been a tremendous success. Non-profit organizations across Hampton Roads have benefited from these volunteer services, and, as a group, volunteers have performed close to 2,000 hours of community service since the beginning of the program."

The Walter E. Hoffman Community Service Award recognizes outstanding hands-on service to the community by a member of the Bar Association who is under 40 years of age. The award, named for the late jurist who served as a role model and mentor for lawyers in the Hampton Roads community, is distributed to only two recipients a year.

"I appreciate the honor," said Davenport. "And now, this award allows us to take the community service we do in the law school and give it a bigger platform." In 2009, Davenport inaugurated Regent Law's annual Community Service Day, a joint volunteer effort of Regent Law students, faculty, staff, and members of the local bar association, providing non-legal services to non-profit organizations across Hampton Roads.

"One of the reasons the Community Service Day is important to Regent is because it's a powerful outreach tool for the law school," said Davenport. "I think lawyers have a certain perception in the local community, and this outreach allows everyone to see us as the servants that lawyers truly are."

The annual event coincides with incoming Regent Law students' orientation activities. Last August, 154 volunteers completed more than 600 hours of community service in one day at locations including Union Mission, Virginia Beach Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and St. Mary's Home for Disabled Children. Previous years' service days have included the Norfolk Law Library, Botanical Gardens, and Red Wing Park in Virginia Beach.

"As attorneys we have a special gift where we can take a client's concerns into the courts," said Davenport. "But, just because we have that special gift doesn't mean we can't get dirty, too."

Learn more about Regent University School of Law.

Student Wins Case for Civil Litigation Clinic Client

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:02:00 +0000

Wading through the complexities of employment law can be a challenging process even for seasoned attorneys.

Through Regent Law’s Civil Litigation Clinic, current students have the opportunity to gain experience in some of the most challenging practice settings while helping clients in need in the process.

As part of her work with the Clinic, current student Emily Dunn ('13) recently helped a client win back the unemployment benefits which were unfairly denied her by her employer.

Dunn met with her client under the guidance of Professor Kathleen McKee, Director of the Civil Litigation Clinic. Dunn simplified the statutes and information involved in the case, developed a defense for her client based upon the corresponding case law, and won the case in court.

The clinical experience gives students confidence and a sense of accomplishment, eliminating the gap between the classroom and the courtroom.

"Our classes and professors instill in us the confidence we need to successfully represent our clients," Dunn says. "I was able to use that confidence to my client’s benefit in simplifying the process and vindicating her case."

Dunn's clinical experience solidified her desire to help people through the law by researching and advocating on their behalf. She highly recommends the clinic experience to future lawyers who have not yet had a chance to intern in an attorney’s office or in a court setting.

The Civil Litigation Clinic serves clients whose household income is at or below the federal poverty line, handling landlord/tenant, consumer, selected domestic relations, and administrative matters. Under the immediate supervision of an experienced attorney, students have direct responsibility for handling cases from initial interviews to conclusion of representation. The Civil Litigation Clinic has been in operation since January of 1995 and handles approximately 20-30 cases per semester.

Professor Brad Jacob Quoted in WORLD Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:40:00 +0000

Bradley Jacob, associate law professor, was quoted in this WORLD Magazine article on Thursday, April 11, regarding constitutionality of crime prevention via public posts on social media sites.

This Week in the News - 4.15.13

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:00:00 +0000

The Regent Law Chapter of the International Justice Mission (IJM) hosted a full calendar of events for “Justice Week” to raise awareness of human trafficking issues. Donations received this week will be contributed to the nonprofit organization, International Justice Mission, whose main purpose is to fight human trafficking, prosecute perpetrators, and rehabilitate victims.

On Monday, April 8, IJM hosted a Pancake Breakfast.

Tuesday and Wednesday, April 9-10, various pieces of student art were on display and up for auction at the Art Exhibit & Auction hosted by IJM.

Then, on Wednesday evening, April 10, IJM hosted the Film Screening of “Journey To Freedom.”

Students and IJM members gathered again on Thursday, April 11, for a Prayer Walk.

The week’s finale was held on Friday, April 12, with the final IJM event Push 20,000. At this event athletes from Regent University and the surrounding community attempted to perform a total of 20,000 burpees. The number 20,000 signified the estimated number of individuals who are trafficked around the world in a single week.

The Federalist Society hosted Aaron Bare who spoke on Technology, Business, and Society in the Practice of Law on Monday, April 8.

The Office of Career Services hosted a “Don’t Fail the Bar” lunch on Tuesday, April 9. Regent alumni panelists give tips and success strategies for passing the Bar the first time around. Topics also included a discussion on balancing personal life, family, study demands, and important logistics for the week of the bar exam.

As part of the Academic Success Program Dean Gantt and Professor Whittico hosted a Study Skills Workshop on Wednesday, April 10, titled “Advanced Exam Preparation and Taking.”

The Virginia Bar Association Student Council (VBA) concluded the Legal Food Frenzy (Food Drive) on Friday, April 12. The canned food and nonperishable items collection went from Aril 1-12.

On Friday, April 12, the Regent Journal of International Law (RJIL) hosted an interest meeting.

Law Team Wins Second Place in International Moot Court Competition

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 14:54:00 +0000

On Friday, April 12, Regent University School of Law's moot court competition team finished in second place in the University of Oxford's Price Media Law Moot Court Programme. This was Regent Law's first time to participate in an international competition.

Third-year law students Monica Bailey, Alexis Fenell, Kevin Hoffman and Caleb Wan, coached by Professor Michael Hernandez, traveled to Oxford, England, to argue cases regarding the rule of law and international norms for freedom of expression. Regent's moot court team was one of 38 to present arguments in the final international round, competing against globally-recognized law schools such as the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.

"In recent years, our Regent Law students have earned much success at the regional and national levels, but it's especially gratifying and exciting to see them place so highly in our first international competition," said Regent Law dean Jeffrey Brauch. "I'm very proud of our moot court team and Coach Mike Hernandez. They all worked extremely hard to reach this prestigious competition, and they represented Regent very well. "

In the final round of arguments, Regent Law's team came out ahead over teams from Addis Ababa University, Ilia State University, Vilnius University, China University of Political Science and Law, Hugh Wooding Law School and Southwestern Law School.

The Price competition, which features regional rounds held in South Asia, South East Europe, the Americas and the Middle East, is known for its wide range of student competitors and notable guest judges from around the world. Regent Law was one of four schools from the United States in the international competition.

Previously, Regent finished second place overall in the Americas Regional Round held in New York City in January 2013. There, the team's legal brief was recognized as the competition's third best brief.

Learn more about Regent University School of Law.

By Brett Wilson
Photo Courtesy of Price Moot Court Competition.

Career & Alumni Services Director Recognized for Community Service

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:32:00 +0000

Darius Davenport, Director of Regent Law Career & Alumni Services (pictured R), was recently awarded the Norfolk Portsmouth Bar Association’s (NPBA) Walter E. Hoffman Community Service Award for his leadership in encouraging the legal community’s positive impact on Hampton Roads.

Davenport was presented the award by NPBA president Gary Bryant (pictured L) at a special ceremony held on the campus of Regent University. Bryant is the head of the litigation practice at Wilcox & Savage, Norfolk, Va.

In 2009, Davenport launched Regent Law’s annual Community Service Day, a joint volunteer effort of Regent Law students, faculty, staff, and members of the local bar association providing non-legal services to non-profit organizations across Hampton Roads. The annual event coincides with incoming Regent Law students’ orientation activities.

Last August, 154 volunteers completed more than 600 hours of community service in one day at locations including Union Mission, Virginia Beach Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and St. Mary's Home for Disabled Children. Previous years’ service days have included the Norfolk Law Library, Botanical Gardens, and Red Wing Park in Virginia Beach.

“We are incredibly proud of Darius and the work he has done benefiting the local community,” said Dean Jeffrey Brauch. “Regent Law’s Community Service Day has been a tremendous success. Non-profit organizations across Hampton Roads have benefited from these volunteer services, and, as a group, volunteers have performed close to 2,000 hours of community service since the beginning of the program.”

The NPBA distributes only two awards to its membership each year.

The Walter E. Hoffman Community Service Award recognizes outstanding hands-on service to the community by a member of the Bar Association who is under age 40. The award is named for the late jurist who served as a role model and mentor for lawyers in the Hampton Roads community. Of Hoffman’s many accomplishments and accolades, he was best known for the "rocket docket" administrative system that made the Eastern District of Virginia one of the most efficient federal courts in the country, and the Edward J. Devitt Award for Distinguished Service to Justice in 1984. In 1983, the federal courthouse in Norfolk, Va., was named in his honor.

Recently on Campus - 4.8.13

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 10:30:00 +0000

Regent University School of Law is featured in the Spring 2013 issue of preLaw magazine for its Bar pass success. View the article on page 12 here. You will be prompted to submit an email address before being able to view content.

The Virginia Bar Association Student Council (VBA) kicked off the Legal Food Frenzy (Food Drive) on Monday, April 1. The canned food and nonperishable items collection will continue through April 12. Donation boxes are located in the lobby of Robertson Hall, the Library, and the Student Services building. Please see here for more information. To donate online, click here. Please be sure to name Regent Law as the organization.

“Rules of Engagement for Summer Interns” was hosted by Career Services on Tuesday, April 2. The event featured local attorneys in a panel discussion on legal etiquette and research and writing tips.

Three hundred new chairs were delivered to the Law Library on Tuesday, April 2 as a part of the Foundation for Justice campaign.

The Federalist Society hosted Professor John Stinneford from the University of Florida, Levin School of Law, on Tuesday, April 2. He spoke on the original intent of the Cruel and Unusual Punishments Clause. His talk was followed by a commentary provided by Regent Law Professor David Wagner.

An all COGS Chapel was held on Thursday, April 4, featuring a message from Randy Clark, noted international speaker, author, and the director of the ministry Global Awakening.

Regent University Law Review held an informational lunch on Friday, April 5.

The Council of Graduate Students (COGS) hosted a barbeque, picnic, and comedy event for students on Friday evening, April 5.

Regent Law Hosts U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 13:37:00 +0000

Regent University School of Law students had an exceptional opportunity to witness appeals-in-action as the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit held case hearings at the law school on Thursday, March 28. Three Court of Appeals judges, hosted by Regent's Moot Court Board, heard oral arguments on three cases.

"Regent was honored to host the Fourth Circuit for the first time in the history of our law school," said Law dean Jeffrey Brauch. "This was an outstanding opportunity for our students and our faculty to see the work of the court in person and also interact with the visiting judges."

During its 2012-13 term, the Court, which is based in Richmond, Va., visited several law schools in Virginia and West Virginia to hear arguments. More than 300 Regent Law students, faculty and other guests filled the university's Moot Courtroom to observe the proceedings.

"This is one of the highest court systems in our country," said third-year law student, Ottie Allgood. "And for the Fourth Circuit Court to take the time to be here is a big deal."

Allgood explained that the court's presence on campus was not only an honor, but it also served as a reminder to students that their law school education will one day be put to practical use in their aspirations to become practicing attorneys.

"These cases today were real-world problems, and they will have real-world consequences," said Allgood. "It just really puts it into perspective as to why we're all here."

Aside from witnessing the oral arguments, Regent Law students also engaged in a question and answer session with the judges immediately following the hearings. The judges urged and encouraged current students to "write, write, write" and to tackle their briefs as though they would never have the opportunity to vocalize their arguments in court. They also encouraged the students as they begin to pursue careers at the end of their legal education.

At the invitation of the law school, about 20 students and teachers from the Legal Studies Academy at First Colonial High School in Virginia Beach also attended the hearing. Sarah Benhoff, third-year law student, was impressed to see prospective law students in the audience.

"When I look back as an alumna, it will be good to see the school I attended helping future students," said Benhoff. "I'm already proud of my future alma mater."

Learn more about Regent University School of Law.

By Brett Wilson

Recently on Campus - 3.25.13

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 13:54:00 +0000

Phi Alpha Delta members participated in a networking mixer on Friday, March 22.

Regent University celebrated the Grand Opening of the Chapel. The ribbon cutting ceremony was hosted on Friday, March 22. Read more here.

Law Chapel on Thursday, March 14, was a special event. Each of the Co-Chaplains delivered an independent message. Co-Chaplain Courtney Lemmond spoke of “being fearless” and Co-Chaplain Anastasios Kamoutsas spoke on “being watchful and vigilant.” Previous Law Chapel messages may be viewed here.

Regent Students were encouraged to attend, “The Living Word: Ancient Treasures From Biblical History” hosted by Regent University from March 20-23.

The International Law Society hosted a panel discussion entitled, “The Path of the Immigrant: Arriving, Becoming Employed, Getting a New Life” on Tuesday, March 19. The three panel members included Senior Immigration Services Officer Frank Reffel (USCIS), Attorney Anne C. Lahren (Pender & Coward, P.C.), and Attorney Olga Antle (Gardner and Mendoza, P.C.).

The office of Career Services hosted a Magistrate program on Tuesday, March 19. The program featured guest panelists Beth Turnbull, supervisor, and Daniel Holser, Chief Magistrate and Regent alum, to discuss the dynamics of various magistrate positions.

On Monday, March 18, members of the Federalist Society met to discuss nominations and elections for next year’s board member positions.

Law Student Volunteers Assist Community with Tax Prep

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:40:00 +0000

It’s tax time and once again Regent University School of Law’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) is up and running.

Each spring semester Regent’s law students volunteer their time, two to three hours per week for about eight weeks, to help prepare taxes for individuals in the Hampton Roads community.

“We often have repeat clients from previous years including a mother and daughter who come every year, a number of older couples, as well as whole families,” says VITA site coordinator and student Kelley Goldberger. “I've had clients tear up when they see the refund they will be getting. They greatly appreciate our service and trust our work.”

VITA prepares an average of one-hundred returns each year, but that number varies based on our volunteer participation. Goldberger says VITA will staff about twenty volunteers this year, almost double the number from last year. The volunteer certification process is rigorous and time-consuming. Over Christmas break volunteers take several certification exams to prepare for the program.

To receive VITA tax preparation assistance, all individuals earning annual incomes $49,000 or less are invited to stop by Robertson Hall on the campus of Regent University to have their Federal and State of Virginia Tax Returns prepared for free.

The office is open Monday 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. (RH 116), Wednesday 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. (RH 112), and Thursday 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (RH 114).

The last week of operations for the season will be April 1, 2013. To make an appointment or for questions, e-mail VITA@regent.edu. Walk-ins are welcome at any time.

Recently on Campus - 3.18.13

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 11:30:00 +0000

On Monday, March 11 the Federalist Society hosted Professor Scott Gaylord from Elon School of Law. Professor Gaylord discussed the topic, “Look Who's Talking: Government Speech and Choose Life Specialty Plates.”

Career Services hosted a Judicial Internship Program Information Session on Tuesday, March 12.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, March 12-13, Regent’s Student Alumni Ambassadors held the spring’s 3rd annual Infusion Blood Drive.

Dean Brauch hosted a special Town Meeting for law students on Wednesday, March 13.

Judge Mark Davis, a member of Regent's Board of Visitors, delivered this week’s Law Chapel message on Thursday, March 14. Previous Law Chapel messages may be viewed here.

Career services hosted a Solo Practitioner Lunch Program on Friday, March 15.

Regent Law Partners with Norfolk State University

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 19:55:00 +0000

Regent University president, Dr. Carlos Campo (pictured R), signed a formal partnership agreement with Norfolk State University president, Dr. Tony Atwater (pictured L), at NSU's Lyman Beecher Brooks Library on Wednesday Feb. 27. The agreement marked the start of the Bachelor of Arts-Juris Doctorate program between NSU and Regent.

The program will provide qualified pre-law NSU students with a clear and concise pathway through the rigorous application process that law school entails. The signing signified Regent's commitment to guiding students through the law school admissions process. Together, the two schools are dedicated to offering NSU students counsel throughout the LSAT process, special campus tours of Regent as well as sessions with law faculty, students and admissions officers.

Campo hopes this agreement will be both encouraging and beneficial to NSU pre-law students seeking their future in law. He welcomed these prospective students into the Regent family.

"I don't want to hear that NSU doesn't have a law school," said Campo. "NSU does have a law school—and it's Regent University."

Jeffrey Brauch, dean of Regent University School of Law, welcomed the agreement with NSU, and introduced Regent's philosophy of law to the students and faculty attending the ceremony.

"Lawyers are to be servants; people come to them when things are going wrong," said Brauch. "We teach our students how to speak wisdom into their lives, homes, and families."

Atwater said he is excited to see the prospects this partnership with Regent could offer for the future of qualified NSU students participating in this program.

"I'd like to see renowned attorneys and even members of the Supreme Court of the United States come from this program," said Atwater.

Both presidents noted that this partnership will not generate preferential treatment, or relax admissions standards, but said that it will simply aid in alleviating the pressures pre-law students face when applying for law school.

Brauch said he looks forward to the potential generation of lawyers that may come from NSU, and hopes this partnership will give them the chance to pursue a degree they are truly passionate about.

"I can tell that NSU students care deeply about their community—that's in [Regent's] heart as well," said Brauch. "We're looking for servant leaders who can change the world one client at a time."

Learn more about Regent University School of Law.

By Brett Wilson

Recently on Campus - 3.4.13

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:55:00 +0000

On Tuesday, February 26, Career Services held a Black Legal History Program highlighting legal history in Hampton Roads as influenced by African American lawyers. Panelists included: Honorable Aundria Foster, Retired Chief Judge from Newport News Circuit Court; Gloria A. Whittico, Professor at Regent Law; Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander, Associate Professor at Norfolk State University; and W.T. Mason, local Civil Rights Attorney.

John Mackey, Co-Founder & CEO of Whole Foods came to campus for a talk as a part of the Regent University Executive Leadership Series on Tuesday, February 26.

Professor James Duane of Regent University School of Law spoke of 5th Amendment rights in a talk entitled, “What Every American Needs to Know about the Fifth Amendment” at both Duke Law School in Durham, North Carolina on Tuesday, February 26 and at Campbell Law School in Raleigh, North Carolina on Wednesday, February 27.

Regent Law students, staff, and faculty gathered together to pray for the alumni taking the bar exam on Tuesday, February 26 and Wednesday, February 27.

Dr. Travell Travis who serves as serves as Assistant Dean of Hampton University School of Business, a minister at City of Refuge Church, and an attorney, delivered this week’s Law Chapel message on Thursday, February 28. Previous Law Chapel messages may be viewed here.

The Black Law Student Association hosted its second annual book drive for the Norfolk Juvenile Detention Center.

Members of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program are already assisting members of the Hampton Roads community with their Federal and State of Virginia Tax Returns. The group will continue to assist individuals earning less than $49,000 annually through April 1, 2013.

Regent Law Alumnus in the News

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:21:00 +0000

Alumnus Sal Iaquinto ('96) was profiled in this Virginian-Pilot article after announcing that he will not seek re-election as a Virginia delegate to the state House of Representatives. He has represented a district in Virginia Beach since 2006.

Recently on Campus - 2.25.13

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:00:00 +0000

On Monday, February 22, Regent Law had the privilege of hosting Justice William C. Mims of the Virginia Supreme Court for a luncheon which focused on his experiences in life as they relate to a legal career and as a Justice. The event was sponsored by Phi Alpha Delta.

The Council of Graduate Students (COGS) held a university-wide town hall meeting on Monday, February 18. Students were able to voice their questions to various members of the Regent faculty and staff.

Regent Law hosted Duke Law Professor Jefferson Powell for a colloquium on Tuesday, February 19. Professor Powell discussed the field of government service and as an opportunity for law students to live out their Christian calling.

A Counsel Lunch Program hosted by Career Services featured attorneys presently working as corporate Counsel on Tuesday, February 19, 2013.

Ronnie McAdoo, father of UNC basketball player James McAdoo, delivered this week’s Law Chapel message on Thursday, February 21. Previous Law Chapel messages may be viewed here.

Members of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program are already assisting members of the Hampton Roads community with their Federal and State of Virginia Tax Returns. The group will continue to assist individuals earning less than $49,000 annually through April 1, 2013.

On Friday and Saturday, February 22-13 the Black Law Student Association (BLSA) hosted the annual “Soul Food Café” in the Regent Ordinary.

Regent Law Alumni Win Injunction in Teen Abortion Case

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:22:00 +0000

Regent Law alumni Stephen Casey ’08 and Greg Terra ’01 recently appeared on numerous national media outlets after winning a long-term injunction in a high profile abortion case.

Casey and Terra won an injunction prohibiting their client’s parents from forcing her to have an abortion.

Casey and Terra head the Texas Center for Defense of Life, an Austin-based non-profit organization providing legal support to pro-life organizations and individuals.

Watch the interview with Piers Morgan on CNN and read more on Fox.

The World's Endangered Gender

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 18:16:00 +0000

For many, the news of a newborn girl is met with gifts and pink showers of celebration. But in some places in the world—especially in areas like China and India— the prospect of a baby girl is met with fear, abandonment and, ultimately, their disposal. On Saturday, Feb. 16, Regent University's School of Law hosted five distinguished speakers during the Endangered Gender symposium. The panel explored the impact gendercide has had on the global male to female ratio.

The symposium was sponsored by the Regent Journal of Law & Public Policy and the Regent Journal of International Law. According to Regent Law professor Lynne Marie Kohm, who served as moderator for the panel, 160 million female children are "missing" from the world as a result of gendercide. She said that sex-selective abortion is an issue that will need to be acknowledged by future litigators, and its solutions pursued by "9-1-1 global rescuers."

United States Congressman Trent Franks (pictured) said that the genesis of these destructive issues lies in being distanced from the truth. Franks reminded the audience of the Civil War, when the United States' own history reflected discrimination of race.

"We're never quite so eloquent when we're commenting on crimes of the past," said Franks. "And we're never so blind when we don't decry gendercide today."

The endangered gender issue has become important to the Arizonan congressman in his pursuits of passing the Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act (PRENDA). This act would outlaw abortions based on gender or race in the United States.

Franks argued that gendercide was not something that the nation's founding fathers had in mind when they proclaimed that "all men are created equal." He said that eliminating sex-selective abortions goes hand in hand with the Biblical calling to "do unto others," and that the lives of all men and women are transcendent.

"We need to dedicate our heart and purpose to this," said Franks. "Because I don't know how we'll serve Jesus any other way."

David M. Smolin, director of the Center for Children and Ethics and professor at the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University, said that gender-selective abortions are the result of China's one-child policy, and stem from the social importance of having male children to carry the family's lineage.

"Families in China want a daughter, but need a son," said Smolin. "But if you eliminate mothers, this will have an effect on population in a profound way."

Steven Mosher, like Smolin, shared an acute concern of the germinating issues of the Chinese population. As president of the Population Institute, Mosher offered his internationally-acknowledged research and expert knowledge of China's population issues. He explained that one of the biggest sources of sex-selective abortions stems mainly from how readily-available and precise ultrasound technology has become.

"The desire to have perfect children will contribute to sex-selection in the future," said Mosher. "This is a problem that will not get better; it will get much, much worse."

Like China, India holds bearing male children in the same heightened esteem. Dr. Ana Aspras Steele, the president of Dalit Freedom Network USA, spoke on the favor of male children in India. Even being pregnant with a female child is cause enough for the perpetual violence and abuse of some women in the nation, according to Steele.

"India is the most dangerous—and deadliest—place on earth to be a girl," said Steele. "There needs to be a cultural recreation to raise the value of the female in India."

Dr. Prakash Tyagi, the executive director of GRAVIS, a center that provides training and aid for those living in the Thar Desert communities in the state of Rajasthan, also spoke on behalf of India. He claimed that there is simply a lack of joy in raising a little girl in his country. As a father of two young girls, Tyagi expressed how personal the issue is to him and his wife.

"Our daughters are our sons, and they can do everything that boys can do," said Tyagi. "And one day they'll have to do their part to make sure people know that."

Learn more about Regent University School of Law.

By Brett Wilson

Recently on Campus - 2.15.13

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 16:20:00 +0000

The Hispanic Law Student Association (HLSA) hosted an informational meeting on Tuesday, February 12.

Career Services hosted a Loan Repayment Program on Tuesday, February 12.

A Public Interest Program hosted by Career Services featured prominent public interest attorneys about preparing for your career and advice on job searching on Friday, February 15.

Regent Journal of Law & Public Policy (RJLPP) and the Regent Journal of International Law (RJIL) cohosted the symposium entitled Endangered Gender: A Discussion Sex-Selective Abortion on Friday and Saturday, February 15-16. The symposium featured a diverse panel of legal scholars, practitioners, and other experts in the field, including Congressman Trent Franks, who will discuss the political and legal implications of the human rights issues involved.

Regent Law Professor and Alumna in the News

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 14:11:00 +0000

Law Professor Scott Pryor's recent appointment to serve as resident scholar with the American Bankruptcy Institute was highlighted in this Friday, Feb. 1, article from the DowJones Bankruptcy News report.

Alumna Kelley Holland '08 (Law) has joined the law firm of Williams Mullen, practicing in the Virginia Beach office, according to this report in Inside Business.

Faculty Highlight: Professor Bruce N. Cameron

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 14:51:00 +0000

Bruce Cameron, Reed Larson Professor of Labor Law, brings to the classroom a lifetime of experience working at the forefront of litigation surrounding compulsory unionism and Right to Work issues.

Cameron is a distinguished attorney with the National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation and is widely considered a pioneer in the area of religious liberty for employees whose faith prohibits them from supporting labor unions. He focuses his professional and scholarly activities on advocating for religious and political freedom for employees of faith, a topic that continues to receive media attention.

Indeed, if recent developments in the State of Michigan’s legislature are any indication, students at Regent who are interested in right-to-work issues will have the privilege of studying with Cameron at a very exciting time in the history of Right to Work legislation.

In December 2012 Michigan Governor Rick Snyder signed into law Right to Work legislation that prohibits individuals from being forced to join a union or financially support a union to maintain employment and prohibits employers from firing them if they don’t join a union.

Cameron considers this a huge win for individuals who believe they should be free to choose whether to support a labor union.

“Unions are private institutions,” Cameron says. “A government should not compel you to join or financially support a private institution. If you love freedom, the passage of Michigan’s Right to Work law is a win. There is no contest for those who love freedom.”

At Regent, Cameron teaches Religion in the Workplace, Public Sector Labor Law and administers the Right to Work Practicum while adding to his list of numerous published articles on the topics of religion, Constitutional law, the rights of religious dissenters, and labor law.

Earlier this academic year he presented at both the Atlantic Union Attorney’s Conference and Pepperdine University School of Law on the topic of unreasonable religious accommodations in the workplace. He has appeared frequently on television and radio shows including appearances on Dr. Dobson’s Focus on the Family. During thirty years litigating religious freedom and constitutional law cases in the employment context, he never lost a Title VII religious accommodation case in court.

Learn more about Cameron here.

Law Team Advances to International Competition Finals

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 14:25:00 +0000

Competing against law schools from the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean, Regent Law’s competition team recently advanced to the international round of the University of Oxford’s Price Media Law Moot Court Programme to be held on the campus of the University of Oxford, England, this coming April. Regent’s team also won the award for the competition’s third best brief.

Participants in the Price competition argue cases regarding the rule of law and international norms for freedom of expression. The competition, which features regional rounds held in South Asia, South East Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East, is known for its wide range of student competitors and notable guest judges from around the world.

At the Americas Regional Round held January 24-27 in New York City, Regent’s team of Monica Bailey, Kevin Hoffman, Caleb Wan, and Alexis Fenell defeated teams from Brazil and Argentina in the preliminary rounds, and St. Mary’s School of Law and the Cardozo School of Law in the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds, to advance to the international and final round of the competition. In addition to the oral argument component of the competition, each competition team was required to submit two briefs, or "memorials" as they are known in international law, arguing both sides of the competition problem. Regent’s team ultimately finished second in the final round of the Americas Regional Round.

"We are extremely proud of this team,” said team coach and law professor Michael Hernandez. “We are also excited about the Price Media competition, which intersects with our strong programs in Moot Court, Global Justice, and International Human Rights. We look forward to competing for the international title in Oxford, England in April."

Regent Law’s success in the Price competition adds to the list of over 60 national and regional championships, best brief, and best oralist awards in the school’s 26 year history.

Law Professor Scott Pryor Named ABI Resident Scholar

noreply@blogger.com (Regent Law) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 14:18:00 +0000

The American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) has named Regent University School of Law professor Scott Pryor the Robert M. Zinman ABI Resident Scholar for the spring 2013 semester.

ABI names a resident scholar each semester to help further the organization's research and solutions for insolvency. During his appointment, Pryor will be based in ABI's Alexandria, Va., office, assisting ABI with its educational programming and in its role as the authoritative source of bankruptcy information for Congress, the media and the public.

"Serving as Resident Scholar is an honor and an opportunity," said Pryor. "It is an honor to be recognized for my work in this field of law and an opportunity to be of service to the larger legal community."

Pryor has been a professor in the School of Law since 1998, and was a Fulbright Scholar to National Law University-Jodhpur (India) in 2009. He has written and lectured extensively on bankruptcy, contract law and Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code.

"So far I've spent time designing a 'nuts and bolts' continuing legal education program for new lawyers. The program will run a full day with parallel tracks for lawyers emphasizing consumer bankruptcies or business bankruptcies," Pryor explained. "I am also fielding calls from various news organizations (Dow Jones News, Wall Street Journal, South Florida Business Journal) about bankruptcy issues, as well as beginning to design 'on demand' podcasts for lawyers who want more in-depth information about discrete topics in bankruptcy law."

Pryor has been an ABI member for many years. ABI is the largest multi-disciplinary, nonpartisan organization dedicated to research and education on matters related to insolvency. The ABI membership includes more than 13,000 attorneys, accountants, bankers, judges, professors, lenders, turnaround specialists and other bankruptcy professionals.

Learn more about Regent Law faculty.

By Amanda Morad