Alumni - St. Mary's Law

Alumni - St. Mary's Law
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School of Law Alumni
Welcome, Alumni
St. Mary’s Law has over 9,000 alumni across the United States and in countries around the world. Our alumni make up a network of more than 9,000 accomplished individuals practicing law, leading businesses, teaching, governing, advocating, raising families, and making their communities a better place.
The strength of this network grows through the participation and support of our alumni, who contribute their expertise and financial means. We invite you to get involved!
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Gold & Blue Law Edition Magazine
St. Mary’s School of Law courtroom named through Gamez family gift
April 10, 2026
The family of Joe A. Gamez (J.D. ’73) honored their patriarch with a $1 million gift to St. Mary’s University and the naming of the Joe A. Gamez Courtroom on campus.
St. Mary’s Law Online J.D. student represented U.S. in 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics
April 10, 2026
St. Mary’s Law cheered on a special Team USA athlete in the 2026 Olympics in Italy. Online J.D. student Winter Vinecki placed sixth in the women’s freestyle skiing aerials competition.
Nation’s first Online J.D. Program graduates share special camaraderie at St. Mary’s Law
April 10, 2026
After launching in Fall 2022, the inaugural cohort for the School of Law’s Online J.D. Program, known as Section O, are walking the stage. When the program started, it was the nation’s first fully online J.D. program accredited by the American Bar Association.
St. Mary’s Law students and faculty collaborate on innovative binational migration book
April 09, 2026
A serendipitous meeting of St. Mary’s University School of Law faculty and two Mexico City-based lawyers resulted in a new book with a binational perspective on the history, law and policy of immigration.
St. Mary’s Law master’s degree provides legal foundation in health care compliance
April 09, 2026
Erika Perry (M.Jur. ’21) started the Master of Jurisprudence Program at the St. Mary’s University School of Law to gain the knowledge she needed to implement a strong medical billing and coding compliance program.
St. Mary’s Law students pursue public health impact through new dual degrees
April 09, 2026
At a time when public health outcomes are increasingly shaped by law and policy, the St. Mary’s University School of Law is creating new opportunities for students and professionals to examine public health challenges through an interdisciplinary lens.
St. Mary’s School of Law fulfills midlife career dream for J.D. alumna
April 09, 2026
Laveta Casdorph (J.D. ’99) was well into her career as a federal civil servant in employee relations when she entered law school and pivoted her career.
Tough teacher reveals soft side at St. Mary’s Law
April 09, 2026
Professor of Law John W. Teeter, J.D., devotes 35 years to challenging and encouraging students at the St. Mary’s University School of Law.
St. Mary’s Law Microenterprise and Community Development Clinic offers assistance to entrepreneurs, nonprofits
April 09, 2026
After years providing legal services to the underserved at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, Andrea Beleno Harrington, J.D., couldn’t pass up the opportunity to create the new Microenterprise and Community Development Clinic at the St. Mary’s University School of Law.
St. Mary’s Law and Mexican lawyers collaborate on migration book
February 10, 2026
A serendipitous meeting of St. Mary’s University School of Law faculty and two Mexico City-based lawyers resulted in a mutually beneficial and enlightening result — a new book on immigration.
A first graduate of Online J.D. Program realizes dream of legal career through virtual law school
December 10, 2025
State Rep. Armando Martinez, who will accept his Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s Law at the Fall 2025 Law Commencement, is a member of the first cohort of the country’s first online J.D. program.
St. Mary’s alumni volunteer time to benefit the University
December 04, 2025
Jim Drought (J.D. ’69) always wanted to be an attorney. Sara E. Dysart (B.A. ’74, J.D. ’81) loves giving back to St. Mary’s University. When asked to assist with a gift given by an alumnus, the two friends didn’t hesitate to offer their legal services.
St. Mary’s Law study shows benefits of Catholic legal education
November 03, 2025
New study reveals how Catholic-affiliated law education impacts the lives of graduates beyond their time on campus.
Master’s degree alumnus delves deeper into business law
November 03, 2025
Jason Stover (M.Jur. ’23) decided to earn his degree at St. Mary’s Law so he would be more informed about the laws that govern his areas of expertise.
J.D. alumnus embraces assisting physicians and military members
November 03, 2025
Veteran represents service members before an Administrative Separation Board or professional licensees before state boards.
After life-altering crash, J.D. student commits to inspiring others
November 03, 2025
Lauren Cortez, a third-year J.D. student, didn’t allow a car wreck to derail her dreams of earning her law degree.
Canadian musician’s unconventional path leads her to St. Mary’s Law
November 03, 2025
A Canadian attorney and award-winning musician enjoys a legal career in Texas after earning Master of Laws at St. Mary’s School of Law.
School of Law navigates AI’s challenges and opportunities
November 03, 2025
The St. Mary’s University School of Law is preparing faculty and students to use artificial intelligence effectively and responsibly.
Criminal and territorial law scholar to release new book and teach course
November 03, 2025
Assistant Professor of Law Sígrid Vendrell-Polanco, J.D., grew up in Puerto Rico and enjoys teaching future lawyers about the U.S. territories.
$1.2 million gift from Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports St. Mary’s Law clinics
November 03, 2025
Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. is fighting housing insecurity by powering the St. Mary’s Law Real Estate Clinic and Consumer Protection Clinic.
Passion for service leads St. Mary’s law alumnus to priesthood
November 03, 2025
While earning his J.D. at St. Mary’s Law, William Hayes, S.J. (J.D. ’22), found himself on the path to priesthood.
Family support propels J.D. student to fulfill childhood dream
May 13, 2025
Daeja Hall, who will accept her Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary’s Law at the Spring 2025 Law Commencement, was propelled by her family to fulfill her childhood dream.
Graduate of first-in-the-nation master’s degree focuses on special education law
May 05, 2025
Patricia Howey is the first to earn a Master of Jurisprudence with a concentration in Special Education Advocacy at St. Mary’s Law.
Director of Student Records continues mother’s work
May 05, 2025
Every St. Mary’s University School of Law student record since 1987, from grades to certifying J.D. degree requirements, has crossed the desk of Yvonne Olfers (B.A. ’80), Director of Student Records.
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor shares career insights with St. Mary’s Law community
May 05, 2025
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor shares career insights with St. Mary’s Law community.
$5M donation establishes Bennie W. Bock II Center for Business and Transaction Law
May 05, 2025
A $5 million donation establishes the Bennie W. Bock II Center for Business and Transaction Law at the St. Mary’s University School of Law.
Two J.D. alumni appointed to new Texas Business Court
May 03, 2025
The newly created Texas Business Court features two alumni from the St. Mary’s University School of Law: the Hon. Marialyn Barnard (J.D. ’92) in San Antonio and the Hon. Patrick Sweeten (J.D. ’96) in Austin.
St. Mary’s LL.M. graduate advocates for immigrants
May 03, 2025
As an immigration attorney, Roberto Campos (LL.M. ’18) has walked in the shoes of the clients he represents every day. It was not long ago that Campos, along with his parents and five siblings, immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico.
St. Mary’s Law May J.D. graduate commits to inspiring future Latina lawyers
May 03, 2025
Yuliana Gaytan Portillo, who will graduate on Saturday, May 17, with a J.D. from the St. Mary’s University School of Law, is committed to breaking barriers for other Latina law students.
J.D. alumnus from the Rio Grande Valley turns tenacity into criminal defense career
May 02, 2025
Carlos A. García, who earned his J.D. in 2005, decided to attend the St. Mary’s School of Law after a first career as a school administrator.
Professor’s research reveals ramifications of sharing private data
May 02, 2025
St. Mary’s Law Professor Jena Martin, J.D., is emerging as a thought leader in the intersection of business and human rights.
Non-traditional J.D. student to receive law degree at December commencement
November 25, 2024
Although her dream of attending law school was delayed, Lyda Creus Molanphy is earning her J.D. to better serve her clients after working for Gov. Ann Richards and with the Great Springs Project.
New St. Mary’s Law professor finds her passion in teaching
September 26, 2024
After stints working in Big Law and having her own practice, Melissa Shultz, J.D., St. Mary’s University Assistant Dean for Legal Writing and Professor of Law, found her true calling in the classroom.
Recent J.D. graduate accepts prestigious federal clerkship
September 25, 2024
Berenis Ibarra López (J.D. ’24) accepted a 2026-2027 clerkship with the Hon. Irma Carrillo Ramirez, J.D., of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. López is currently a law clerk for the Hon.
Legal vocations: St. Mary’s Law elevates career paths to new heights
September 18, 2024
The St. Mary’s University School of Law offers J.D. and LL.M. students highly individualized support so they can find fulfilling vocations.
Legal vocations: Alumnus thrives in international trade compliance
September 18, 2024
Robert Dunlap (B.A. ’06, M.A. ’11, J.D. ’11) is a St. Mary’s Law and International Relations alumnus who is thriving in an international trade compliance career.
Legal vocations: Alumna finds perfect fit in Big Law in Fort Worth
September 18, 2024
Gracie Garcia, who received her J.D. in 2017, has earned success as a versatile trial attorney with an array of clients at Jackson Walker.
Legal vocations: Former prosecutor fulfills dream as judge
September 18, 2024
The Hon. Lori Valenzuela (J.D. ’98) fulfills her childhood dream of becoming a judge after a career as a prosecutor.
Legal vocations: Diverse legal background prepares alum for Landry’s in-house role
September 18, 2024
Stephen Hebert enjoys his role as corporate counsel with a nationwide litigation docket for Landry’s Inc. locations.
Law Professor Michael Smith shares unique study of originalism
September 16, 2024
An unusually named law review article on originalism by Michael Smith, J.D., a St. Mary’s University School of Law faculty member, has raised some academic eyebrows, drawing interest from law scholars, media members and social media followers across the country.
Canary Island roots fuel alumnus’ passion for San Antonio
September 13, 2024
Steve Chiscano (J.D. ’97) may know more about San Antonio’s history and its ties to Spain than anyone else. His love for the city runs deep: he served as president of the San Antonio Bar Association and as chairman of the board of the Historical Centre Foundation, formed to preserve San Fernando Cathedral in downtown San Antonio.
M.Jur. alumna uses platform to advocate for female veterans’ health
September 13, 2024
First class competitor  by Michelle Mondo  Krendra Harralson (M.Jur. ’24) thought she would still be climbing the ranks in the U.S. Army, but an unexpected medical diagnosis sent her on a different path: earning a pageant competition …
School of Law helps build on alumna’s service-minded efforts
September 12, 2024
Firm support by Suzi Morales, J.D.  Serving others is central to who Anietie Akpan (J.D. ’13) is.  You can see it in her work, how she talks about her family and why she chose the St. Mary’s …
St. Mary’s University School of Law faculty in the books
September 12, 2024
by Nathaniel Miller Beyond the classroom, St. Mary’s University School of Law faculty conduct research and share their knowledge through various publications both online and in print. Here is a sampling of those books, articles and papers …
Afghan judge and family find new home at St. Mary’s
August 19, 2024
Serving as a Visiting Scholar at St. Mary’s University School of Law, the Hon. Samea Hassas and her family have found a new home at the University after fleeing Afghanistan to escape the Taliban and their return to power.
Marianist ideals draw Bangladeshi priest to LL.M. Program
July 01, 2024
In his religious quest to assist those most in need of peace and law ministry in his home country of Bangladesh, a missionary priest found himself at the perfect place to continue his education — St. Mary’s University School of Law.
Visiting Scholar from China shares observations on studying law in Texas
June 20, 2024
Yun Weixiao, a law professor from China, offers insights from her year as a Visiting Scholar at the St. Mary’s University School of Law.
School of Law graduate from the RGV finds support during J.D. studies
May 20, 2024
When it came to picking a major, Hannah Orendain (J.D. ’24) had to decide between following in her father’s footsteps by becoming an attorney, or going to medical school.
Former TV journalist chooses career in law
May 03, 2024
Max Massey was a man between two worlds — one foot in broadcasting and the other in law school. It wasn’t long before he had to make a choice, cementing his decision to jump feet first into a career in law.
St. Mary’s Law clinic students help keep our community housed
January 16, 2024
Eviction prevention is the focus of the St. Mary’s University School of Law Consumer Protection Clinic and the Real Estate Clinic.
Associate Dean makes humanitarian causes her career mission
January 16, 2024
St. Mary’s Law Associate Dean Ramona Lampley inspired much of her legal work on preventing forced labor in international supply chains.
Military veteran turns legal interest into second career
January 12, 2024
Using his military mindset and 20 years experience as a combat medic in the United States Army, David Louis would excel in his studies as he made the leap to St. Mary’s School of Law.
Urban litigator brings small-town values to practice
January 12, 2024
Julia Mann (J.D. ’94) has held just about every job one could have at a law firm. She is the managing partner of Jackson Walker LLP’s San Antonio office and as a high school student, worked at the law firm of her father’s office in Lake Jackson.
Law alumnus goes from academic struggles to top Dallas attorney
January 12, 2024
After his first semester at St. Mary’s Law, C. Gregory Shamoun’s GPA was below what was required to continue. Undeterred, Shamoun not only raised his GPA, but graduated and became a sought-after attorney in Dallas.
Law alumnus founds environmental clean-up nonprofit
January 11, 2024
Tyler J. Ryska (J.D. ’17), an Austin-based attorney, founded a new environmental clean-up nonprofit, The Clean Initiative Project.
Alumnus leads international legal transactions in Mexico, philanthropic efforts at home
January 10, 2024
Many may see Alex Pérez (J.D. ’96) as an international attorney, a tax law expert or a leader in San Antonio’s philanthropic efforts as the San Antonio Area Foundation’s board chair. But he views himself, fundamentally, as an interpreter.
School of Law graduate aims to become a military attorney
December 16, 2023
December School of Law graduate Meagan Folmar (J.D. ’23) plans to join the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps.
Double alumna tackles Master of Jurisprudence program
December 12, 2023
Bhakta is pursuing her Master of Jurisprudence with a Concentration in Compliance, Business Law and Risk: her third degree at St. Mary’s.
Lawyer turned Marianist Novice finds his ministry at St. Mary’s Law
November 16, 2023
As a young criminal lawyer in his home state of Querétaro, Mexico, Guillermo “Memo” Peña Contreras had no interest in the priesthood. Peña Contreras imagined life as a priest would leave him stuck inside a parish in a sedentary life.
The nation’s first fully online J.D. students reflect on law school and life
August 01, 2023
Scattered across Texas and the United States, 25 students have created the tight-knit inaugural cohort in the School of Law’s Online J.D. program, the first of its kind in the nation.
St. Mary’s Law supports students all the way to the bar exam
August 01, 2023
Law school can feel like one hurdle after another. St. Mary’s University School of Law saw a need to extend support to students beyond graduation. In true Marianist charism form, this extra helping hand comes in the form of the Raise the Bar program.
Barrera family builds legacy from San Antonio to Supreme Court
August 01, 2023
Both Roy Barrera Sr. and Roy Barrera Jr., along with nearly a dozen other family members, have obtained either an undergraduate degree, a law degree or both from St. Mary’s University. That education took Barrera Sr. all the way to role of Texas Secretary of State.
Three generations of women fulfill law dreams at St. Mary’s University
August 01, 2023
With three generations having walked the halls of the St. Mary’s University’s School of Law, the Hon. Carter Casteel said she wouldn’t have entrusted their law education to just anywhere.
Puerto Rican alum finds extension of home at St. Mary’s Law
August 01, 2023
Puerto Rico, known for its vibrant culture and history, decadent cuisine, and majestic beaches and mountains, is a tourist destination for some. But for Carlos Chévere-Lugo, J.D. (LL.M. ’17, LL.M. ’18), the U.S. territory is home.
Professor Chenglin Liu’s research serves public health
August 01, 2023
You can trace Professor of Law Chenglin “Gary” Liu’s interest in public health back to his early days researching organic foods. Now, he dedicates his career to academic research and learning.
Criminal Justice Clinic students provide support for those in need
August 01, 2023
As part of the Criminal Justice Clinic, eight students with the School of Law worked with the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office Conviction Integrity Unit.
St. Mary’s University School of Law faculty in the books
July 18, 2023
The St. Mary’s University School of Law’s faculty do more than teach — they also share their expertise in specific fields in publications.
Law grad turned injustice into career purpose
June 14, 2023
If you’ve been on campus at the St. Mary’s University School of Law in the last three years, you’ve likely heard the name or been in the gravitational pull of Cody Huffman (J.D. ’23).
St. Mary’s Law student helps marginalized communities
May 31, 2023
During her Spring 2023 semester, from the St. Mary’s University campus, J.D. student Leslie Espiricueta was helping fight for a Georgia Innocence Project client who has served 25 years in prison.
Leading Ladies: Patricia Roberts nurtures leaders as the School of Law Dean
May 08, 2023
When Patricia Roberts, J.D., first came to understand injustices, she was 12 years old. After finding out that some innocent people go to jail, she resolved to become a lawyer and help right some of those wrongs.
School of Law professor elucidates ethics in the legal field
January 31, 2023
Legal ethics expert and professor Michael S. Ariens continuously strives to be the type of author he wants to read. He hopes to be that author who writes the book on the niche topic his readers need most.
St. Mary’s Law graduates nine alumni from one family
January 31, 2023
The St. Mary’s University School of Law graduates alumni from all over the world, but the Dowd family from St. Louis produces School of Law graduates en masse.
Nationally ranked Advocacy Program prepares court-ready lawyers
January 31, 2023
Walking into the St. Mary’s University School of Law’s Raba Building, it’s easy to get distracted by the numerous trophies. But those awards, earned by the School of Law’s Advocacy Program, represent tournament placements and are points of pride for a program that has produced national champions.
Alumna uses her experience to create judicial clerkships
January 31, 2023
The Hon. Marina Garcia Marmolejo is using her experience to create judicial clerkship opportunities for School of Law students. She is a Laredo-based federal district judge for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas.
Pipeline program makes law school a reality for high school students
January 31, 2023
The Office of Pipeline Initiatives finds ways to demystify law school for high school students to make their law school dreams a reality.
School of Law celebrates faculty, staff who have served decades
January 31, 2023
This year marks a milestone for several faculty members, celebrating decades of dedicated service to the St. Mary’s University School of Law.
Clerkships add employment security and prestige to law graduate’s repertoires
December 16, 2022
St. Mary’s School of Law graduates secure judicial clerkship opportunities through a new clerkship program.
M.Jur. alumnus combines forensic psychology with law studies
December 06, 2022
The question that drives forensic psychologist John Delatorre is why an individual commits a crime. He applies psychology to consult on criminal, civil and family law cases in his work. He’ll soon apply his Master of Jurisprudence education to his work as well.
MBA/J.D. student finds nontraditional path to success
November 30, 2022
A single teen mom. A successful business owner. And now a dual-degree student at St. Mary’s University attaining her MBA and J.D. Vanessa Ortega has paved her own path to success and helps others find theirs.
Law student founds nonprofit group for young runners
November 16, 2022
For his nonprofit Running Down a Dream, Shawn Barnett led a group of 14 school-aged children and their parents through warm-up stretches. Before starting their run, Barnett, a second-year J.D. student at the St. Mary’s University School of Law, tells everyone to set a reasonable, achievable goal for themselves.
Tamales, cafecito and blessings bring the Rio Grande Valley family spirit to St. Mary’s Law students
September 26, 2022
The smell of warm tamales and hot coffee bring to mind the warmth and aroma of home for some St. Mary’s University School of Law students.
Graduating J.D. student finds her “why” at St. Mary’s Law
May 19, 2022
Rosa Peterson, scheduled to graduate from the St. Mary’s University School of Law on May 21, has donated her time to various organizations during her studies.
The Defining Moment Comprehensive Campaign funds the future of St. Mary’s Law
March 25, 2022
Donors to the St. Mary’s Law campaign endowed transformational scholarships and professorships, funded cutting-edge facilities, enabled first-generation student programming and propelled law success efforts.
Defining Moment: Law alumnus expresses gratitude for Catholic Intellectual Tradition
March 25, 2022
The emphasis on the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, according to Martin D. Beirne (J.D. ’69), means that St. Mary’s University focuses on developing the whole person, not just handing students a degree.
Defining Moment: Thanks to donor, program prepares first-generation students for law school
March 25, 2022
Prior to starting at the St. Mary’s University School of Law, first-year J.D. student Majestad Barragan did not know who or what to expect in her classes.
Defining Moment: Law alumnus donates to nurture next generation of lawyers
March 25, 2022
Steven Michael Peña Sr. (J.D. ’94), a partner at Davidson Troilo Ream & Garza, PC in San Antonio, feels law students who underperform are easily overlooked.
Defining Moment: Alumnus practices what he preaches through gifts
March 25, 2022
John R. Courtney Sr. (B.A. ’61, J.D. ’67) encourages any student looking for a great leadership and educational opportunity to join the Army ROTC at St. Mary’s University.
Defining Moment: D.C. attorney promotes advocacy program
March 25, 2022
For Erich Ferrari (J.D. ’06), founder and principal attorney of Ferrari & Associates, the St. Mary’s University School of Law was the starting point for developing his practice as a sanctions lawyer.
Defining Moment: Couple donates to support law student success
March 25, 2022
Coll Bramblett (J.D. ’80) applied to many law schools, but only the St. Mary’s University School of Law gave him a chance to become a lawyer, so he took it.
Award-winning Texas winemaker remembers his St. Mary’s Law roots
March 21, 2022
Ron Yates (J.D. ’05) owns Spicewood Vineyards in the Texas Hill Country. After being in the wine-making business for 15 years, he’s learned to roll with the bunches.
New St. Mary’s Law professor shares love of puffy tacos, bullfighting and classroom fun
March 18, 2022
Even after graduating in 2017 as a new lawyer, Emilio Longoria, J.D., quickly realized that he was drawn to legal issues with no easy answer.
St. Mary’s Law launches the one and only fully online J.D. program accredited by the ABA
March 15, 2022
This academic year, St. Mary’s Law became the first law school in the nation to have a fully online J.D. program accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).
Law journal symposium hosts Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and national immigration experts
March 04, 2022
If there’s one thing Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Sonia Nazario wanted attendees of the 2022 Immigration Symposium to understand, it’s that immigrant children who come to the U.S. alone face an arduous journey.
Annual symposium emphasizes importance of ethics in the legal profession
February 10, 2022
During the 21st Annual Symposium on Legal Malpractice and Ethics held in late January at the Bexar County Courthouse, attendees heard topics ranging from future policies the legal profession could implement to lawyers’ perceptions of themselves.
St. Mary’s Law graduates look to the future
December 17, 2021
This week, the St. Mary’s University School of Law celebrated the accomplishments of 50 students. The ceremony honored 22 Master of Jurisprudence (M.Jur.) graduates, 22 Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) graduates and six Master of Laws (LL.M.) graduates.
Students, faculty offer advice for overcoming imposter syndrome
November 23, 2021
When first-year J.D. student Julia Awad received her first semester’s grades at the St. Mary’s University School of Law in Fall 2020, she thought they were a fluke.
World Kindness Day is year-round at St. Mary’s
November 13, 2021
At St. Mary’s Law, many registered student organizations (RSOs) promote treating others with kindness , including the St. Mary’s 1L Edification Program (SM1LE), an RSO that helps first-year J.D. students adjust to law school life by connecting them with second- and third-year J.D. student mentors.
Five tips for first-year J.D. students
August 20, 2021
In your first year of law school, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning. Everything feels so different from your undergraduate experience. The assigned readings never seem to end. Here are five tips I learned as a J.D. student in the Class of 2023 that may help incoming law students find success from the very start.
J.D. students with military backgrounds click with St. Mary’s values
July 28, 2021
Despite having no family or connections in San Antonio, U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Rachel Barr found comfort in one of the core values of the St. Mary’s University School of Law — service.
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What LL.M. degrees are available?
The law school offers four LL.M. degree programs: the
LL.M. in American Legal Studies
, the
LL.M. in General Law
,  the
LL.M. in International and Comparative Law
, and the
LL.M. in International Criminal Law.
The LL.M. in General Law offers three concentrations:
Cybersecurity
Employment and Human Resources Law
and
Territorial Law
How many hours of academic credit are required for completion of the LL.M. degree?
The number of hourly credits required for graduation with any one of the LL.M. degrees is 24.
Can I complete my full-time study for an LL.M. degree in one academic year?
Yes. Any of the LL.M. degrees may be completed in full-time status in one academic year which consists of two semesters, fall and spring. This process can therefore take as little time as nine months.
Can I study on a part-time basis for an LL.M. degree?
U.S. citizens may study part-time in the fall and spring semesters plus summer school sessions with the intention to complete the LL.M. degree in two academic years.
Should more time for completion of the degree program be needed, the LL.M. candidate must secure the approval of
Jennifer Stevenson
J.D., Assistant Dean for International Programs.
Foreign nationals who must maintain student visa eligibility must enroll in a minimum of 10 credit hours per semester during the regular academic year (Fall and Spring). 10 hours is also considered full time for purposes of financial aid eligibility.
Will the LL.M. degree in American Legal Studies fulfill a necessary threshold requirement if I wish to sit for an American bar exam in order to become licensed in one or more states in the United States?
Each state in the United States independently regulates the eligibility of attorneys to practice law within its jurisdiction. The
LL.M. in American Legal Studies
will satisfy the U.S. legal education requirement for the LL.M. graduate to sit for the
Texas, California
or
New York Bar exams (list not exhaustive).
Please note that some jurisdictions require additional components such as pro bono service, and that candidates are responsible for determining those requirements as set by the Board of Law Examiners in each state (http://www.ncbex.org/). In and of itself acquisition of the LL.M. degree in American Legal Studies does not qualify a foreign trained attorney to practice law in the United States.
Where can I find the course requirements for each LL.M. program?
Program planning templates can be requested from the Director of Graduate Law Programs at:
stmullm@stmarytx.edu
See additional information on the course catalog and descriptions
How do I know which courses are necessary and otherwise most appropriate for the LL.M. in American Legal Studies and bar exam preparation?
While 24 hours are required to complete the LL.M. any student wishing to sit for a bar is encouraged to take every core law course available to them. Specific bar exam content can be accessed through each state’s
Board of Law Examiners site
. It is also expected that LL.M. candidates will participate in formalized bar prep activities like their J.D. counterparts to prepare.
ow do I apply? What steps do I need to take?
For details, please visit the
Applying to the LL.M. page.
Does St. Mary’s Law School impose LL.M. application deadlines?
The LL.M. program admits two cohorts each year: fall and spring. While we have rolling admission, foreign LL.M. applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application package at least two months before the commencement of the semester in which the applicant intends to begin his/her first semester of study.
This helps ensure that the I-20 can be processed by the University’s International Student and Scholar Services Office in enough time for the applicant to secure a student visa for study in the United States.
If I am a foreign national applying to the LL.M. program, what English language requirements must I meet in order to be granted unconditional admission?
LL.M. applicants whose native language is not English are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) prior to their admission to the LL.M. programs. English proficiency is the key for LL.M. students to meet the rigorous reading and writing requirements at St. Mary’s University School of Law.
Cut-off scores are: 80 points on the internet-based TOEFL or 6 points on the IELTS test. The TOFEL code for St. Mary’s University is 6637. Only current TOEFL and IELTS scores will be considered. The Admissions Committee reserves the right to interview candidates via telephone or Skype to verify English proficiency.
International applicants who have successfully completed a high school, secondary or post-secondary program of study in English are exempt from the English proficiency test requirement.
May LL.M. applicants apply through the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC)?
Yes. This is the preferred method if an applicant plans on taking a bar exam.
What materials are required for a foreign student visa application?
The following materials are required:
A valid passport
The visa application payment
The Law School’s official letter of admission to the LL.M. degree program
The completed I-20 form issued by the International Student and Scholar Services at St. Mary’s University
A bank statement of financial responsibility to pay tuition and all other related LL.M. program costs
What are the current estimated costs of obtaining an LL.M. degree at St. Mary’s University?
Please see current
tuition rates
Where can I find the academic requirements for the completion of any one of the LL.M. degree programs?
For sample academic plans or a copy of the
Student Handbook
, please email the Director of Graduate Law Programs at:
stmullm@stmarytx.edu
What can I expect after I am admitted to the LL.M. program?
Admitted students will receive their student credentials, access to an online orientation module and will be contacted to register for classes before the start of the semester.
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT) and can I enroll?
LL.M. students with F-1 status who have completed their degrees may apply for Optional Practical Training. The work must be in their field of study and must include practical training. F-1 students are usually permitted a total of 12 months of practical training.
Information on the OPT is sent out to international students by the
Office of International Students and Scholar Services
(ISSS) during a student’s last semester of study. Contact ISSS for more information. Students are responsible for securing the work assignments.
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