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University Student Legal Service (USLS) - Student Services Fees

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<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

JANUARY 24, 2011<br />

<strong>Fees</strong> Request for 2011-12 and 2012-13 Academic Years<br />

219 19 th Avenue South, 160 West Bank Skyway, Minneapolis, MN 55455<br />

Address<br />

612/624-1001 612/624-7351 karon001@umn.edu<br />

Phone Fax Email<br />

“We acknowledge that the fees committee does not award actual dollars, but rather a penny fee<br />

that earns dollars based upon student enrollment levels. Any differences between anticipated and<br />

actual income resulting from changes in enrollment are the responsibility of the administrative<br />

unit, not of the fees committee.”<br />

______________________________<br />

Director – Mark Karon<br />

Preparer’s Name<br />

____________________________________<br />

Office Administrator/Paralegal – Pam Wyatt<br />

Co-Preparer’s Name


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Section I: Narrative<br />

Provide a description of the administrative unit. Please restrict the narrative to information about the administrative unit,<br />

not a financial introduction. Consider the following details:<br />

§ Provide mission / vision statement, inclusive of organizational goals<br />

§ depict the make-up of the administrative unit: services, programmatic areas, etc.<br />

§ illustrate need within the university community, inclusive of how administrative unit meets said need<br />

§ detail student benefit derived from administrative unit, whether or not students utilize services<br />

§ describe student involvement within the administrative unit<br />

The narrative is intended to provide history and background for fees committee members to better understand how the<br />

administrative unit functions. Significant changes in this section are not expected annually, since the mission and vision of<br />

the administrative unit should not change dramatically.<br />

Mission and Vision Statement, Organizational Goals<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> missions and goals are:<br />

(1) to provide students with high quality legal services from experienced legal<br />

professionals at a minimal expense. <strong>USLS</strong> helps students make the most of their<br />

educational experiences by recognizing, identifying, and ameliorating legal problems that<br />

threaten to interfere with or disrupt students’ lives and abilities to concentrate on school;<br />

(2) to assure students are provided fair, meaningful access to the legal system by<br />

representing, advising, and counseling students experiencing legal difficulties and leading<br />

to a just resolution in a timely fashion;<br />

(3) to educate students about their rights and responsibilities in legal matters that students<br />

frequently encounter, thereby avoiding legal conflicts so students can make the most of<br />

their educational opportunities; and<br />

(4) to be a resource and assist the <strong>University</strong> of Minnesota in its mission, goals,<br />

objectives and student developmental outcomes by active involvement with all other<br />

departments and units within the university in the recruitment, education, mentoring and<br />

programming enabling the university to be recognized as one of the top universities in the<br />

world.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> addresses the first two missions and goals by providing advice, counsel, and<br />

representation to individual student clients and being legal advocates of students attending the<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota. <strong>USLS</strong> addresses its educational mission by educating the students that<br />

we represent, so they understand the legal process and are made aware of their legal rights and<br />

responsibilities. In addition to educating clients, <strong>USLS</strong> offers and conducts law-related<br />

educational workshops and programs that are customized topical presentations for students and<br />

student organizations. <strong>USLS</strong> sponsors a “Career Exploration Program” for students interested in<br />

pursuing a law-related education or career. We also provide assistance, advising, and<br />

programming for law-related student groups, provide leadership opportunities for students<br />

through internships and involvement with the <strong>USLS</strong> student board. <strong>USLS</strong> publishes and<br />

Page 2 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

distributes brochures on legal topics important to students, offers employment opportunities to<br />

students, and serve as a resource to the media and <strong>University</strong> staff.<br />

The third and fourth mission and goals statements illustrate how <strong>USLS</strong> also plays an important<br />

role in supporting the academic mission and goals of the <strong>University</strong> of Minnesota. The office<br />

assists students in reaching academic success by allowing them to focus on classroom and<br />

academic issues despite any number of legal obstacles. <strong>USLS</strong> assists in improving retention and<br />

increasing graduation rates by reducing financial risks and/or other problems students may face.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong>, through its student board, assists in employment and vocational goals of students and<br />

helps in the recruitment of future students through its mentor (career exploration program) and<br />

educational programs. <strong>USLS</strong> staff regularly participates and assist <strong>University</strong> professors and<br />

instructors in numerous classes throughout the <strong>University</strong>. <strong>USLS</strong> continues to provide for and<br />

promote student involvement on the board and provides security to students as well as to<br />

students’ parents who may be concerned about various societal and environmental legal issues.<br />

History and Background<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>) was established in 1977 by students after the student<br />

governing assembly documented the need for affordable legal services for students who were<br />

being denied access to justice and the court system. Since that time, <strong>USLS</strong> has been protecting,<br />

asserting, and defending student rights. As the only <strong>University</strong> Department with a Board of<br />

Directors which is not solely advisory, <strong>USLS</strong> uniquely reflects the grassroots initiative that<br />

created the program. To establish the service, the students had to overcome concerns of the<br />

<strong>University</strong> Administration about the ramifications of such a service in many areas, including<br />

suits against the <strong>University</strong>. After a long battle, a compromise was reached whereby <strong>USLS</strong><br />

would be subject to <strong>University</strong> policies as a department of the <strong>University</strong>, while students<br />

maintained a strong role in the administration of <strong>USLS</strong> through the student-led Board of<br />

Directors. The unique role of the <strong>USLS</strong> Board as a board of directors rather than an advisory<br />

board is a testament to the core role of students in establishing <strong>USLS</strong> and their continuing handson<br />

involvement with <strong>USLS</strong>. The creation of <strong>USLS</strong> by <strong>University</strong> of Minnesota students has<br />

resulted in this program receiving national recognition and becoming a model for student legal<br />

service organizations. Presently there are over 330 student legal service offices in the United<br />

States and Canada which are members of the <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s (SLS) Section of the<br />

National <strong>Legal</strong> Aid and Defenders Association (NLADA). <strong>USLS</strong> Director Mark Karon was<br />

once again elected in 2010 to serve as president of the SLS section of NLADA. In that role, he<br />

has organized several national conferences and has created a national network of SLS offices so<br />

as to better serve student needs. <strong>University</strong> of Minnesota SLS attorneys and professionals attend<br />

and participate in those conferences and are all members of NLADA. <strong>Student</strong>s at the <strong>University</strong><br />

of Minnesota benefit directly from <strong>USLS</strong> participation and involvement in NLADA in the<br />

following ways, by way of example and not limitation:<br />

(1) an international network and listserve has been established, enabling <strong>USLS</strong> to obtain<br />

information and assistance for students who have legal issues outside the state of<br />

Minnesota and areas of representation;<br />

(2) promotion of state and national legislation which will improve students' legal rights;<br />

Page 3 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

(3) fostering and opening lines of communication relating to common interests, goals,<br />

and problems affecting students’ rights;<br />

(4) improving the administration of student legal service programs;<br />

(5) collaboration in addressing specific problems affecting students in many states, such<br />

as spring break travel scams, telephone company slamming, and moving company fraud;<br />

(6) addressing specific legal issues unique to students; and<br />

(7) providing legal resources to students experiencing legal concerns in other<br />

jurisdictions.<br />

<strong>Service</strong>s, Programmatic Areas<br />

As stated above, <strong>USLS</strong> missions are: the representation and education of students and clients.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> interprets the representation component of the mission as broader than merely providing<br />

legal advice, counsel, and representation to individual clients. Representation is extended by<br />

other means of addressing legal issues that affect students such as working with members of<br />

local governments and governmental boards and committees; neighborhood associations, to<br />

address housing issues; initiating investigations of consumer fraud and identity theft; and<br />

handling appeals on issues that have ramifications for many students. <strong>USLS</strong> believes that the<br />

substantive rights of clients include: (a) the right to meaningful access to the courts; (b)<br />

providing a meaningful role in the process of decision-making regarding matters affecting<br />

students’ welfare both on and off campus; (c) the ability to utilize the <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> for<br />

advice and representation, including litigation; and (d) empowering students to take ownership in<br />

the outcome of problem solving and conflict resolution.<br />

The <strong>USLS</strong> educational mission is flexible. <strong>USLS</strong>, through its professional staff, has designed<br />

educational programming to assist the general <strong>University</strong> population in understanding their rights<br />

and responsibilities as they relate to local, state, and national laws. Examples of such<br />

programming designed to cover current issues include: (1) informing international students about<br />

changes in immigration laws; (2) providing information on tenants’ rights and legal<br />

responsibilities; (3) assisting in legal issues relating to the consequences of credit card use and<br />

abuse; (4) providing information and advice relating to identity theft and internet fraud; (5)<br />

providing information to students and the media about travel scams at or near break and vacation<br />

times; (6) alcohol and drug awareness programs addressing legal consequences (most recently<br />

addressing the new “social host” law); (7) providing information on career and educational<br />

opportunities in law-related fields and professions, and (8) issues relating to the civil and<br />

criminal implications of hazing; (9) advising students of their civil liberties; and (10)<br />

understanding the legal implications of social networking.<br />

The primary means of meeting the <strong>USLS</strong> educational mission are through: (a) the creation and<br />

presentation of programs; (b) sponsoring mentor initiatives and advising law-related student<br />

groups; (c) providing leadership opportunities for students; (d) publishing and distributing<br />

brochures on legal topics relating to issues important to students; (e) create and develop an<br />

Page 4 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

interactive website enabling students to gather information and provide self-help options; and (f)<br />

affording employment opportunities to students. In addition to education and representation,<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> provides ancillary services such as notarization of signatures and document verification.<br />

These services are necessary based upon student needs. To our knowledge, <strong>USLS</strong> is the only<br />

office on campus that provides document verification, a service which is especially important to<br />

any student who must send a copy of a transcript abroad.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> educational programs are supported by the <strong>USLS</strong> budget. Approximately ninety percent<br />

of the <strong>USLS</strong> budget consists of salary and fringe benefits of the staff that provide the services.<br />

As a service organization, the most logical way to compartmentalize <strong>USLS</strong> into programs is by<br />

focusing on the legal matters for which <strong>USLS</strong> provides service, representation, and advice, and<br />

the managerial functions supporting these services. Currently the <strong>USLS</strong> program areas include:<br />

1. landlord/tenant, focusing on tenants’ rights and responsibilities;<br />

2. consumer matters;<br />

3. collections;<br />

4. wills and trusts;<br />

5. criminal (misdemeanor);<br />

6. immigration;<br />

7. miscellaneous legal services, including name change, power of attorney;<br />

8. family law;<br />

9. administrative and managerial functions;<br />

10. employment-related issues;<br />

11. identity theft and internet fraud.<br />

12. civil liberties and individual rights<br />

13. civil litigation<br />

The Need for Affordable <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s and How <strong>USLS</strong> Meets Those Needs<br />

Need for Representation and Advocacy: Today, even the most careful student may find that<br />

legal assistance is needed to handle ordinary daily matters. Examples of such matters that <strong>USLS</strong><br />

addresses include: automobile accidents, poor housing conditions, wrongful retention of rental<br />

security deposits, and interpretation of contract terms. Technological “advances” have generated<br />

new legal issues that call for new and innovative approaches. Examples of such issues that<br />

regularly disrupt the lives of students include: electronic theft, identity theft, errors in credit<br />

ratings, unregulated sales of goods from around the world, and social networking sites. As<br />

indices of ways the law has grown to affect nearly every aspect of daily life, one need only note<br />

that Minnesota Statutes have grown from four volumes in 1970 to fifteen volumes currently, and<br />

the number of judges in the Minnesota court system in that same period of time has quadrupled.<br />

Further, the state constitution was amended to provide for an intermediate appellate court to<br />

handle the increased volume of appellate cases. As society has changed, students have<br />

experienced the impact of the changes in legal regulations and rules. Their need for affordable<br />

legal services has increased as has their right to meaningful access to the courts. The legal<br />

system is currently under a great deal of strain which has resulted in reducing and eliminating<br />

resources that may have been previously available to those in need. <strong>USLS</strong> assures students at the<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota that they will be provided high quality assistance and representation and<br />

that they will not be turned away when facing a legal problem.<br />

Page 5 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Demographics have changed at the <strong>University</strong> as it has continued to grow. Twenty-five years<br />

ago, approximately 30% of the <strong>University</strong> freshman class lived on campus, and 70% of the<br />

students commuted. Today, 86% of <strong>University</strong> undergraduates live on or near campus, and 14%<br />

live with their parents. These students, when they leave <strong>University</strong> housing, move to the<br />

neighborhoods surrounding the <strong>University</strong> to remain a part of the <strong>University</strong> community and<br />

experience campus life. <strong>USLS</strong> works with neighborhood agencies and associations and provides<br />

students with an effective means to address unscrupulous landlords and substandard housing<br />

issues faced by students. By assisting individual students who are experiencing legal problems<br />

with their landlords and through established preventive legal education programs, students are<br />

aware of their rights as well as their responsibilities.<br />

The Minneapolis City Housing Department continues with its detailed inspection process in the<br />

neighborhoods surrounding the <strong>University</strong> to find code violations and over-occupancy situations.<br />

As in the past, <strong>USLS</strong> has been and will continue to be there to assist those students experiencing<br />

problems and assistance in addressing or abating those legal problems to which they may be<br />

subjected. <strong>USLS</strong> works closely with the Office of <strong>Student</strong> Community Relations and the student<br />

liaisons in helping create a safe living environment for students. <strong>USLS</strong> has created a “Fire Safety<br />

Poster” that has been distributed and is now hanging in the lobby of many of the homes and<br />

apartments occupied by students. (a copy is attached).<br />

Neighborhood pressure to prosecute students renting in neighborhoods near the <strong>University</strong><br />

campus relating to “livability” crimes has important implications for <strong>University</strong> students. In an<br />

effort to assist students and address the severe collateral consequences that may result in<br />

conviction for such crimes, <strong>USLS</strong> has been active in assisting students charged with such crimes.<br />

Each fall, as school begins, UMPD, Minneapolis and the state patrol saturate the neighborhoods<br />

in and around the <strong>University</strong> and issue a substantial number of citations to students in an attempt<br />

to address this issue. <strong>USLS</strong> was actively involved in establishing the “Restorative Justice<br />

Community Action” program at the <strong>University</strong>. This program has been embraced by the<br />

<strong>University</strong> and bordering neighborhoods. As such, students have been able to have certain<br />

matters diverted from the criminal justice system, allowing them to focus on their schooling<br />

while participating in activities that benefit the <strong>University</strong> and the neighborhoods affected.<br />

In addition to changes in the legal system and the inimical attitude of neighborhood residents<br />

toward students, the increasing diversity of the <strong>University</strong> student population increases the need<br />

for legal services. <strong>USLS</strong> has worked to address special concerns of the growing number of<br />

international students. For example, in response to recent changes in immigration laws directed<br />

at students from foreign countries, <strong>USLS</strong> staff arranged to participate in information sessions to<br />

alert students of the severe penalties attached to such things as carrying less than a full-time<br />

course load. <strong>USLS</strong> has regularly participated in the new student orientation for international<br />

students to assist, educate, and help prevent legal problems unique to these students.<br />

Perhaps the most telling measure of the need for <strong>USLS</strong> is the financial benefit <strong>USLS</strong> provides to<br />

students. From July 1, 2009, through December 2010, <strong>USLS</strong> provided a direct financial benefit<br />

of $362,541 to students using the service whose files were closed in the same period. From July<br />

1, 2010 to the present time <strong>USLS</strong> has already provided financial benefits of $198,350 to students.<br />

Page 6 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> has tracked the financial benefit of its services to clients since 1992-93. The benefit is<br />

conservatively measured by recording the amount of (1) judgments/settlements awarded to<br />

and/or collected for client; (2) reduction in judgments or claims against client; (3) annual support<br />

or maintenance awards to client; (4) annual reductions in client support obligations; and (5)<br />

employment and wage claim settlements. Since 1992, <strong>USLS</strong> has returned over four million<br />

dollars to students. This figure is conservative because it does not include savings such as<br />

attorneys’ fees that students would have paid without <strong>USLS</strong>, fine reductions, and atypically large<br />

settlements such as the value of a retirement plan in a dissolution case.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> is successful in assisting students with problems that other attorneys would not handle due<br />

to the nature of the issue or the feasibility of representation. For instance, although there are<br />

numerous attorneys in the private sector who assist and will represent landlords, there are few<br />

resources available that possess expertise and specialized knowledge in representing tenants.<br />

Likewise, <strong>USLS</strong> assists students in recovering damages when their vehicles may have been<br />

wrongfully towed or damaged as a result of a tow. <strong>Student</strong>s would have no resources or<br />

alternatives available for such assistance.<br />

The Need for Affordable <strong>Service</strong>s: The explosion in legal regulation of daily affairs is the first<br />

aspect to consider when looking at the need for <strong>USLS</strong> services. The second aspect of need is<br />

affordability. <strong>Student</strong>s could pay more for legal representation than they do for their education.<br />

An article in the Fall 2009 issue of Minnesota Trial Lawyer Magazine reported that private<br />

attorneys in the Twin Cities, on average, charge between $2,500 and $4,000 to handle one single<br />

misdemeanor matter. Such fees would be impossible for most students to pay. Thirty-one<br />

percent of <strong>USLS</strong> clients have incomes at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines and<br />

43% have incomes below the threshold for many public assistance programs. While the fees for<br />

some other matters may not require a retainer in the $2,000-$3,000 range, even a low hourly<br />

billing rate of $200 would quickly consume a damage deposit that a student may be seeking to<br />

have returned. Even with <strong>USLS</strong>'s low co-pays, many students ask to have fees waived because<br />

they are unable to afford them. With the increases in tuition and other expenses comprehensive<br />

affordable services, such as <strong>USLS</strong>, are important to students.<br />

The services, representation, and advice that <strong>USLS</strong> provides to students are not available at<br />

affordable rates through any alternative programs or sources. In a comprehensive investigation<br />

of alternative legal assistance programs available to students, <strong>USLS</strong> found that there were few<br />

viable alternative resources for students for the types of legal problems that <strong>USLS</strong> presently<br />

handles. With the cuts in funding for legal and social services, even fewer resources are<br />

available now than at the time of that study. Recently state bar association president Terry Votel<br />

and Chief Justice Lorie Gildea stated that the funding crisis has led to legal aid turning away<br />

eligible clients, and the public defenders not having sufficient time to prepare their cases. A<br />

prepaid legal program has recently begun advertising its services in Minnesota. The program<br />

charges participants $49.00 per month which allows them unlimited advice and a reduced fee of<br />

$125 per hour for representation.<br />

In civil matters, students without any assets of notable worth and with household incomes at or<br />

below 125% of the federal poverty level would qualify for representation on some types of cases<br />

through <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s Corporation (<strong>Legal</strong> Aid). Unfortunately, data establishes (a) only 27% of<br />

Page 7 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

financially eligible persons are able to receive full representation; (b) 11% are put on a waiting<br />

list; (c) 9% receive telephone advice only; and (d) 53% are eligible but rejected due to<br />

insufficient resources to handle the cases.<br />

As for criminal matters, the Public Defender, <strong>Legal</strong> Rights Center, and Neighborhood Justice<br />

Center provide representation for low-income individuals, and some students might be eligible<br />

for their services. Unfortunately, eligibility is determined at the first court appearance. If not<br />

eligible, the student would be at court without representation. If eligible, the service is often so<br />

rushed that the client has little understanding of what has happened. The Public Defender does<br />

not consult with clients before the first appearance, which leaves the student with a rushed<br />

consultation for only a few minutes immediately before s/he makes an appearance before the<br />

Court. The Legislature has recently changed the qualifications and financial requirements<br />

necessary to qualify for a public defender and has increased financial responsibility on any user.<br />

Further, the Supreme Court, due to legislative fiscal cuts, has denied the public defenders’ office<br />

request for additional attorneys due to their increased caseload burden. Former Chief Justice<br />

Eric Magnuson stated on Wednesday, January 14, 2009, that this would only get worse given the<br />

state’s economic situation.<br />

No other office on campus provides legal representation exclusively for students. At the<br />

beginning of each semester, the Law School Clinic accepts a small number of clients for teaching<br />

purposes, but the selection is not limited to students. Cases are selected on the basis of their<br />

value as teaching tools for law students. The Clinic accepts very few students as clients.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> provides affordable legal advice and representation to eligible students in areas that are of<br />

greatest concern to students. The <strong>USLS</strong> staff has expertise and skills in legal matters common to<br />

students. As mentioned in the discussion of <strong>USLS</strong> programs, the primary areas of advice and<br />

representation are landlord/tenant, consumer, domestic/family law, criminal/expungement, and<br />

immigration. In addition to representation of individual clients, <strong>USLS</strong> addresses its mission to<br />

provide affordable representation through issue-centered advocacy. The goal of issue-centered<br />

advocacy is to attack the sources of legal problems that have affected a large number of students.<br />

Generally the means used for such advocacy is collaboration with a regulatory body. For<br />

example, after multiple clients complained of the strong-arm tactics used to compel students to<br />

join health clubs, <strong>USLS</strong> worked with the consumer fraud division of the Office of the Attorney<br />

General to terminate such practices. <strong>USLS</strong> also addresses its mission to provide legal services<br />

through ancillary means such as notary and document verification services.<br />

Need for Education and Outreach: The same changes in society that have increased the need<br />

for legal representation have also increased the need for <strong>USLS</strong> education and outreach. An<br />

increased demand for <strong>USLS</strong> to provide information to the media, advisory groups, and conduct<br />

programs is evidence of the growing need to educate students about their rights and<br />

responsibilities. Many such outreach efforts are done to respond to legal matters as they arise.<br />

In particular, <strong>USLS</strong> has seen a notable increase in the number of both print and media journalists<br />

who have contacted <strong>USLS</strong> regarding newsworthy matters. <strong>USLS</strong> staff are regularly contacted by<br />

both local and national newspaper and magazine journalists. <strong>USLS</strong> staff have been recently<br />

quoted in US News & World Report, the Chicago Tribune, the Toledo Blade and the Wall Street<br />

Journal in articles related to the benefits student legal services provide to students. Since<br />

Page 8 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

September 11, 2001, <strong>USLS</strong> has been consulted regarding the FBI questioning of international<br />

students, as well as new United States Citizenship and Immigration <strong>Service</strong> (USCIS)<br />

surveillance policies, specifically aimed at international students. <strong>USLS</strong> has worked in<br />

conjunction with the International <strong>Student</strong> and Scholar <strong>Service</strong> office (ISSS) and the Department<br />

of Homeland Security to counsel and represent international students through this period of<br />

legislative and regulatory overhaul. The <strong>USLS</strong> Board has successfully expanded education<br />

programming to address careers in law-related fields. <strong>USLS</strong> has expanded its careers and<br />

mentoring activities to help educate students about careers and educational opportunities in law.<br />

Working with the Pre-major Advising program in CLA, the <strong>USLS</strong> staff participated in<br />

presentations to students interested in attending law school. Further, <strong>USLS</strong> has continued to<br />

work with the Pre-Law Society in planning, creating, and presenting programs. In 2008 we<br />

began the expansion of the “Careers in Law Forum” to include admissions directors from over<br />

40 law schools from across the country as well as numerous agencies who offer students’ jobs,<br />

internship, scholarship and volunteer opportunities. Last year and again this year over 50 schools<br />

and agencies will participate.<br />

<strong>Student</strong> Benefit from <strong>USLS</strong><br />

The benefits <strong>USLS</strong> provides to the entire <strong>University</strong> student community can be categorized into<br />

several components: remedies, prevention, education, diversity, insurance and leadership. The<br />

discussion below looks at each of these.<br />

Remedies: <strong>Student</strong> Housing: <strong>USLS</strong> works with students in addressing the myriad of rental<br />

problems they face while attending the <strong>University</strong>. The <strong>University</strong> of Minnesota is no longer a<br />

commuter based campus. Most students live away from home and in neighborhoods in close<br />

proximity to the <strong>University</strong>. As such, there is a trickledown effect as subsequent lessees of<br />

properties will enjoy the benefits of prior actions initiated by students through <strong>USLS</strong>. With the<br />

high demand for rental housing near campus, students are prey to unscrupulous landlords who<br />

charge high rents for properties in total disrepair while investing little in the maintenance and<br />

repair of these rental properties. <strong>USLS</strong> works closely with the Minneapolis Housing Inspections<br />

Department to insure students are provided with safe, adequate housing that is not overly<br />

occupied. The City of Minneapolis Inspections Dept. has indicated that <strong>University</strong><br />

neighborhoods are going to be subjected to continued detailed safety inspections. As these<br />

inspections turn up code violations, students will need assistance in evaluating and determining<br />

what remedies and courses of conduct they may follow. <strong>USLS</strong>’ professional staff will be<br />

available to support and provide services to all of the students.<br />

Bill Dane, <strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> attorney, currently serves on the City of<br />

Minneapolis’s Rental Property Advisory Committee (RPAC). This committee meets every two<br />

months to propose and/or review proposed changes in the Minneapolis housing codes, housing<br />

inspections processes, Minneapolis police procedures relating to housing, and many other<br />

matters that impact landlords and tenants. The Minnesota <strong>Student</strong> Association (MSA) also has a<br />

seat on the committee. Minneapolis <strong>Legal</strong> Aid Society is the only other entity that advocates for<br />

tenants that has a seat on this committee. Through Bill Dane’s work, he has been able to<br />

influence at least three ordinances making the housing codes tougher on landlords than they had<br />

previously been. <strong>USLS</strong> has also been able to build stronger ties and relationships with several<br />

Page 9 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

responsible landlords through this committee. These relationships are very useful in representing<br />

students and in addressing community interests and needs.<br />

With <strong>USLS</strong> involvement and input the RPAC (Rental Property Advisory Committee) initiated<br />

legislation that allowed the City of Minneapolis to revoke or deny a rental license to any party<br />

who had a civil judgment against them or their property. Thus, a landlord who owned or had any<br />

interest in a property who had a judgment against them would have their rental license either<br />

revoked or denied. This ordinance has led to <strong>USLS</strong> assisting students in collecting a substantial<br />

amount of old judgments.<br />

A resource many students utilize to find suitable housing is the Housing and residential Life<br />

(HRL) posting of apartments and homes in the university located in the community. <strong>USLS</strong><br />

continues to work with HRL in administering their delisting of properties that are in disrepair<br />

and properties where landlords have failed to address code violations in a timely manner. The<br />

policy was initially implemented and became effective in the fall of 2004. In addition, <strong>USLS</strong> has<br />

worked with MSA to create a student survey to gather information on housing that can be used<br />

by students looking for suitable rental housing prior to the time they sign a lease. This survey is<br />

available to students online and has been recently updated since November 2010.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> attorneys and paralegals who specialize in housing issues are regularly able to assist<br />

students in getting repairs made and in addressing other issues that students face as renters. The<br />

fact that approximately 25% of the <strong>USLS</strong> client caseload involves rental issues attests to the need<br />

for legal assistance in this area. By enforcing tenant rights, <strong>USLS</strong> has succeeded in improving<br />

the quality of rental property in the <strong>University</strong> area and community. When a student rents an<br />

apartment that complies with all code requirements, he or she may never know that the landlord<br />

was forced to repair and renovate the property through the work of <strong>USLS</strong> with a previous tenant.<br />

Further, the student who has a damage deposit returned will perhaps never realize that the<br />

landlord now returns all deposits to students because of <strong>USLS</strong>' lawsuits on behalf of previous<br />

student tenants or because of a Consent Decree obtained through <strong>USLS</strong>'s work with the<br />

Minnesota Attorney General. In an effort to help students make appropriate decisions regarding<br />

rental property, <strong>USLS</strong> provides and distributes a tenant resource packet to prospective studentrenters.<br />

This packet provides information that students should be aware of before they lease a<br />

property and further information on how to address problematic issues during a tenancy.<br />

Beginning January 24, 2011, <strong>USLS</strong>, together with Housing and Residential Life, MSA, and<br />

student and community relations will sponsor 11 workshops in university housing, Coffman<br />

Memorial Union and the St. Paul <strong>Student</strong> Center. These workshops will be presented at times<br />

and locations convenient for students. The workshops continue through February, as students<br />

begin to make transition from university housing to the neighborhoods surrounding the<br />

university.<br />

At the suggestion of the 2010 fees committee, <strong>USLS</strong> instituted a “walk-in lease review” in the<br />

fall allowing students to come in without an appointment to meet with legal professionals and<br />

examine their leases. Transfer and international students who were unable to attend any of the<br />

programs offered in spring primarily used this program. <strong>USLS</strong> will expand this program to allow<br />

students to come in without the necessity of an appointment to have their leases reviewed this<br />

Page 10 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

spring. In addition <strong>USLS</strong> will offer it’s “Renter’s Forum” in late October 2011 to assist those<br />

students who may be contemplating signing a rental agreement at that time.<br />

Although <strong>USLS</strong> practices through advocacy on behalf of clients, <strong>USLS</strong> uses issue focused<br />

advocacy to remedy matters which affect the lives of all students. One example is the work<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> has done with local units of government to address off-campus housing conditions and the<br />

mounting tension between students and residents in neighborhoods adjacent to campus. Other<br />

initiatives have included (1) working with community and landlord organizations to promote use<br />

of a standard lease form that is fair and equitable to student tenants; (2) identifying and<br />

correcting a vacuum in student health insurance coverage; and (3) working with the Minnesota<br />

Attorney General to end fraudulent consumer practices, such as health club contract fraud.<br />

Supreme and Appellate Courts: As a strong advocate for students, <strong>USLS</strong> has handled cases<br />

before both the Minnesota Court of Appeals and the Minnesota Supreme Court.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> has had two significant cases before the Supreme Court, and in both instances <strong>USLS</strong> was<br />

successful, the Court ruling in favor of the <strong>University</strong> student. In a significant case that had farreaching<br />

national significance for students and other disabled individuals, the Court ruled that a<br />

Minnesota unemployment compensation statute that created an irrebuttable presumption that<br />

individuals who file for or receive Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) benefits are unable<br />

to work without an opportunity to rebut that presumption violated the Federal Americans with<br />

Disabilities Act (ADA) by effectively discriminating against disabled individuals who file for<br />

and receive SSDI benefits. The disabled student was denied unemployment compensation<br />

benefits by the State who argued that their statute provided if a person receives SSDI benefits,<br />

they are not entitled to unemployment compensation. This case received substantial national<br />

attention and led to a modification of Minnesota Statute § 268.085. This case has been<br />

frequently cited by numerous sources.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> attorneys recently argued a case before the Minnesota Court of Appeals that defined<br />

whether or not landlords may appear in court without attorneys.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> also successfully argued a case which resulted in the Minnesota Supreme Court defining<br />

when automobile stops of vehicles are permissible and what the necessary grounds are before a<br />

stop will be deemed appropriate and valid.<br />

In recognizing the serious nature of collateral consequences of criminal records that students<br />

may have obtained as a result of being falsely accused, or due to a conviction of a minor<br />

infraction, <strong>USLS</strong> obtained a ruling from the Minnesota Court of Appeals relating to an<br />

individual’s right to have certain records expunged. The law established in this case has assisted<br />

students in obtaining jobs and admission to professional schools without the stigma of an arrest<br />

record for charges that did not merit prosecution. This law has been especially important for<br />

students seeking employment and jobs requiring a security clearance. Subsequent cases building<br />

upon the law established in this case have expanded the right to expungement throughout<br />

Minnesota. In a Minnesota Supreme Court case that has had national impact, <strong>USLS</strong> established<br />

that a student’s education is not property subject to a claim measured by future earning potential.<br />

Page 11 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

These cases offer evidence of what has been previously noted as the trickle-down effects and<br />

benefits that <strong>USLS</strong> provides to other students through the representation of current and former<br />

clients.<br />

Prevention: The visibility of <strong>USLS</strong> as a resource to students creates a “Watchdog" phenomena<br />

that deters unscrupulous conduct directed at students. Sometimes persons engaged in<br />

questionable practices believe they can take advantage of students because they do not believe<br />

they will be challenged. This attitude is frequently seen in legal concerns affecting students such<br />

as landlord/tenant and consumer matters. <strong>USLS</strong> has found that claims often settle when the<br />

adverse party learns that student representation is available through <strong>USLS</strong>. An example of this<br />

phenomena occurred this past year when an attorney in private practice contacted <strong>USLS</strong> to thank<br />

a staff member for his hard work. The attorney explained that he had a landlord tell him "I don't<br />

want to settle but after dealing with <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s at the <strong>University</strong>, I'm going to just<br />

give you what you want." In short, the mere availability of legal services empowers students.<br />

Landlords have requested that we provide educational programs to other staff and residents.<br />

Education: Through legal education, <strong>USLS</strong> empowers students to avoid legal problems. Such<br />

prevention benefits the entire student body. Examples of preventative programming have<br />

included the following: (1) alcohol awareness programs in conjunction with student<br />

organizations such as fraternities, sororities and sports clubs; (2) hazing and legal consequences<br />

programs; (3) programs informing students of the laws relating to the distribution of alcohol to<br />

minors and noisy party ordinances; (4) numerous housing workshops relating to landlord/tenant<br />

issues; (5) identity theft and internet scams; (6) dos and don’ts on the internet and understanding<br />

legal concerns relating to “Facebook” and “My Space”; (7) credit card issues and understanding<br />

your FICO score; (8) meeting individually with university organizations and groups such as<br />

sports clubs, international students and the Greek community to address special legal concerns of<br />

each group; (9) numerous programs updating students with children so they are made aware of<br />

and understand recent changes in the law relating to how child support is to be calculated; (10)<br />

presenting programs addressing topics of contemporary interest such as hate crime, free speech,<br />

race and wealth as factors in the courtroom; (11) recognizing and understanding your “civil<br />

rights and liberties”; and (12) providing employment opportunities to law students.<br />

Insurance: <strong>USLS</strong> is a “risk allocation” system that provides benefits to fee-paying students in<br />

the form of “legal insurance.” The fees students pay for <strong>USLS</strong> are similar to the premiums they<br />

would pay for an insurance policy. A person buys an insurance policy with the hope it will never<br />

be needed. The benefit collected is much greater than the value of the contribution. Those who<br />

pay the student service fee benefit by knowing they would not face financial hardship or ruin if a<br />

legal matter arose. No one chooses to have the problems for which our clients require assistance.<br />

Any student could suffer from an unreasonable landlord, an overzealous creditor, or an unjust<br />

criminal charge. No one can predict whether s/he will need legal assistance. The most recent<br />

<strong>Student</strong> <strong>Fees</strong> Survey Comparison indicated that 20% of those students surveyed have used the<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> directly. This illustrates the importance of <strong>USLS</strong>, as the<br />

national average according to the American Bar Association, shows that approximately 11% of<br />

the general public will use an attorney each year. The security of knowing that services are<br />

available from the moment the fee is paid is a benefit to all who are insured.<br />

Page 12 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Diversity: <strong>USLS</strong> services promote diversity. This past year, 31% of <strong>USLS</strong> clients were students<br />

of color. Throughout <strong>USLS</strong> history, students of color have comprised approximately twenty-five<br />

percent (25%) of <strong>USLS</strong> clients. By assisting students of color with legal concerns, <strong>USLS</strong> helps<br />

students complete their education by providing financial benefits which the students can, in turn,<br />

allocate to educational expenses. By assisting students in completing their education, <strong>USLS</strong><br />

helps maintain diversity on campus.<br />

Leadership Opportunities: In addition, <strong>USLS</strong> has numerous programs for mentoring and<br />

internships at our office. <strong>Student</strong>s work in a legal setting, becoming familiar with legal issues<br />

that may help them in their educational and employment pursuits or interests.<br />

<strong>Student</strong> Involvement:<br />

As mentioned above, the <strong>USLS</strong> student-led Board of Directors is vested with the authority to<br />

determine the policies and practices of <strong>USLS</strong>. The officers and committee chairs must be held<br />

by students. The <strong>USLS</strong> <strong>Student</strong> Board Members work with faculty, staff, and members of the<br />

legal profession from the community in shaping the course of the office. The members of the<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> Board of Directors meet regularly throughout the academic year. The Board has the<br />

following responsibilities:<br />

a. decide the format and nature of the law-related programs, advertising<br />

initiatives and other outreach programs;<br />

b. review, recommend and approve the <strong>USLS</strong> budget, which is based upon the<br />

student services fee request;<br />

c. approve any financial transactions over a specified amount, if those<br />

transactions were not part of the original budget;<br />

d. approve all major capital expenditures made from reserves;<br />

e. determine the services <strong>USLS</strong> will provide;<br />

f. establish the fee schedule for users of the service; and<br />

g. hear and decide complaints against <strong>USLS</strong>.<br />

With the assistance of the <strong>USLS</strong> Board, <strong>USLS</strong> has also addressed our office’s space issues.<br />

Page 13 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

UNIVERSITY STUDENT LEGAL SERVICE ORGANIZATIONAL CHART<br />

Provide a block diagram that supplements the narrative section and details more clearly the administrative unit<br />

structure. The organizational chart should provide a clear picture of the reporting structure, student involvement,<br />

and programmatic areas.<br />

Office of the Sr. Vice President for<br />

Academic Affairs and Provost<br />

Jerry Reinhart<br />

Vice Provost for <strong>Student</strong> Affairs<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> <strong>Student</strong> Board<br />

Of Directors<br />

Mark Karon<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> Director<br />

Linda Aaker<br />

Attorney<br />

Barbara Becker<br />

Attorney<br />

William Dane<br />

Attorney<br />

Luis Bartolomei<br />

Attorney<br />

Kathryn<br />

DeCourcy Knapp<br />

Attorney<br />

Barbara Boysen<br />

<strong>Legal</strong> Assistant<br />

Carol Jacobsen<br />

<strong>Legal</strong> Assistant<br />

Law<br />

Clerk<br />

Law<br />

Clerk<br />

Pam Wyatt<br />

Paralegal /Office<br />

Manager<br />

Renee Anderson<br />

<strong>Legal</strong> Program<br />

Associate<br />

Cheryl Schrader<br />

Prin. Admin<br />

Specialist<br />

Maggie Arends<br />

Receptionist<br />

Page 14 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> Top 10 Programmatic Accomplishments<br />

1. Academic success. <strong>USLS</strong> allows students to channel their energy toward their primary<br />

mission which is to attain and reach their academic goals. We assist not only in recruiting<br />

students to the <strong>University</strong> through the services we provide but we also provide a more<br />

important benefit of retention by allowing students to remain in school despite legal<br />

problems they may face.<br />

2. Financial benefit. Since 1992 <strong>USLS</strong> has returned over $4,000,000 to students.<br />

3. <strong>Student</strong>s’ advocate. While <strong>USLS</strong> aids all <strong>University</strong> students, it is particularly useful in<br />

counseling that segment of the student population that is most vulnerable due to lack of<br />

financial resources or experience resolving matters with unscrupulous merchants, landlords,<br />

etc. (this includes those students who are financially disadvantaged and international students<br />

not familiar with our legal system or who have difficulty with communication).<br />

4. Diversity of clients. <strong>USLS</strong> is concerned that word of our services reaches all segments of the<br />

<strong>University</strong>’s student body. The latest numbers confirm that we continue to be successful. A<br />

large percentage of our clientele are students of color and/or international students.<br />

5. Informational materials and web site. A central part of the <strong>USLS</strong> mission is to<br />

communicate our legal knowledge, expertise, and information to those students who do not<br />

walk in our door. By doing this we provide preventive information to assist students and<br />

help them recognize and resolve legal matters as they arise without the direct intervention of<br />

<strong>USLS</strong>. Our detailed brochures and educational materials, including our Tenant Resource<br />

Packet, provide students with this information. This information is distributed in many<br />

places on campus as well as through the <strong>USLS</strong> office and is available on our web page.<br />

6. Educational outreach programs. <strong>USLS</strong> provides preventive education through counseling<br />

and educational programs and presentations. <strong>USLS</strong> will provide 11 extensive tenant resource<br />

programs from January 24, 2011, to March 3, 2011. The <strong>USLS</strong> Career Exploration Program<br />

provides numerous programs throughout the year for students contemplating legal careers or<br />

law-related education. The “Supreme Court” tour on January 31, 2011; the “Careers in Law<br />

Forum” March 2, 2011and Civil Liberties Program in April 2011 are all programs established<br />

to assist students and be a part of the developmental outcomes adopted by the <strong>University</strong>.<br />

7. International recognition. <strong>USLS</strong> has become a model legal service for the more than 330<br />

student legal services in existence in the United States. Mark Karon has been invited to<br />

BeiHang <strong>University</strong> in Beijing to speak on the creation, development and implementation of<br />

a student legal service in China.<br />

8. The court system. The legal system is not user-friendly. We make it accessible to those who<br />

need it most.<br />

9. Assistance with legal issues and problems. <strong>USLS</strong> provides professional expertise to<br />

students in a broad-based legal practice, allowing <strong>University</strong> of Minnesota students to rely on<br />

us for quality representation, accurate advice, and information in a number of matters.<br />

Page 15 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

10. Community outreach. <strong>USLS</strong> assists countless <strong>University</strong> of Minnesota students, but our<br />

effect goes much further than that, as our ability to litigate serves as a deterrent to those who<br />

might continue their unethical treatment of students.<br />

Unit Performance Report<br />

Use quantitative measures to indicate the degree of use and participation of services and<br />

programs within the administrative unit. Figures should be used to demonstrate the impact the<br />

administrative unit has on campus life and the collegiate experience. Consider the following<br />

details:<br />

• participation / attendance figures<br />

• survey results<br />

• number of customers served<br />

• hours of operation<br />

Use any format, providing the report adheres to the following guidelines:<br />

• whenever possible, provide the specific number of students involved<br />

• at minimum, all figures must be reported for the previous, current, and requested fiscal years<br />

• the report must be specific, clear, and intelligible<br />

• multiple pages may be used<br />

The best measures of <strong>USLS</strong> performance elude quantitative measurement because the paramount<br />

indices of <strong>USLS</strong> success are the problems that do not occur. An excellent illustration of this fact<br />

is seen when <strong>USLS</strong> staff represent tenants with concerns about housing conditions. When<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> succeeds in compelling compliance with housing codes, the next tenants will also benefit.<br />

Frequently involvement of an inspector for one rental unit will result in citations for code<br />

violations in other apartments or common areas such as laundry facilities. This same principle<br />

applies to most of the areas of law for which <strong>USLS</strong> provides representation. The discussion of<br />

how <strong>USLS</strong> benefits all students mentioned other examples of litigation on behalf of one student<br />

that made a legal remedy available to all students.<br />

Similarly, by meeting our education mission, <strong>USLS</strong> helps students avoid problems. Our printed<br />

materials on landlord/tenant rights and responsibilities inform students of their right to quality<br />

housing and protecting the return of their security deposit.<br />

Some aspects of <strong>USLS</strong> services can be quantitatively measured are listed below.<br />

Page 16 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

FY2005-06<br />

FY2006-07 FY2007-08 FY2009-10<br />

FY2010<br />

(7/1/10-<br />

12/31/10)<br />

Financial Benefit to Clients $212,736 $296,608 $262,493 $204,191 $198,350<br />

Program Attendance 1,624 2,558 2,538 6,600 4,200<br />

Notary <strong>Service</strong> 2,576 2,103 2,239 1,320 768<br />

Staff Presentations 25 29 30 60 65 3<br />

Career Exploration 1 Events 3 4 6 7 4<br />

Brochures & Other Material<br />

Distributed 2 15,000 16.598 16,500 17,500 14,400<br />

Percentage Clients of Color 25% 26% 17% 12% 29%<br />

Clients at/below 125% Poverty 20% 18% 16% 31% 31%<br />

Average Number of Active Open<br />

Files per Month<br />

1,800 1,950 2,461 1,641 1,267<br />

Files Opened per Year 1,321 1,387 1,509 1,395 751<br />

1 Formerly Mentor Program. <strong>USLS</strong> is working with Career Counseling Learning Center (CCLC) in the law school exploration course. Other<br />

programs included FBI, Supreme Court Tour, Law Forum, and Hennepin County Gov. Center Tour. <strong>USLS</strong> has four career exploration programs<br />

planned for spring semester, 2011, in addition to the four listed.<br />

2 Number of brochures and materials distributed does not include those distributed during orientation. Each year <strong>USLS</strong> distributes<br />

approximately 10,000 take along brochures at its First Year Orientation table. This figure includes Tenant Resource Manual distributed to 6,720<br />

students living in <strong>University</strong> Housing and 6,720 <strong>USLS</strong> promotional flyers distributed to all <strong>University</strong> housing residents in the fall. All brochures<br />

are available on line for immediate access.<br />

3 <strong>USLS</strong> continues to increase the number of programs and events it sponsors. <strong>USLS</strong> has plans and will conduct approximately 65 programs in<br />

FY 10-11 and FY 11-12.<br />

Fiscal Page<br />

The following page will be a printout of past fiscal records and the current year's budget, with a blank column for the<br />

administrative unit to list figures for its proposed budget (if you are filling out a biannual request, there will be two blank<br />

columns to list the proposed budget for both requested years). All figures on this page (except for the requested year and<br />

for the Minnesota Daily) will be provided for the administrative unit at the beginning of the fees process.<br />

This year's request covers the next two years, and as such has a column reflecting FY11-12 and<br />

FY12-13. The Fiscal Page will be attached electronically as an attachment.<br />

Page 17 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

COLUMN<br />

E<br />

COLUMN<br />

F<br />

COLUMN D<br />

UPDATED:<br />

Actuals Actuals Approved Budget<br />

UPDATED: UPDATED:<br />

Line<br />

Year To Date FY11 as<br />

2009 2010<br />

2011<br />

Budget 2012 Budget 2013<br />

Number<br />

of December 31, 2010<br />

1 Tuition 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

2 <strong>University</strong> Fee 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

3 <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Fees</strong> 1,077,440 1,120,871 1,076,000 1,058,504 1,076,000 1,076,000<br />

4 Indirect Cost Recovery 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

State Special 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

6 Internal Sales 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

7 Other Unrestricted Revenue 7,550 2,723 7,000 1,385 3,000 3,000<br />

8 Gifts 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

9 Private Practice 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

Appropriations 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

11 Grants and Contracts 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

12 Investment Income 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

13 Endowment Income and PUF<br />

0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

Distribution<br />

14 Other Revenue 0 35,275 0 0 0 0<br />

Total Earned Operating Revenue 1,084,990 1,158,869 1,083,000 1,059,889 1,079,000 1,079,000<br />

16 Salaries 607,526 676,243 708,749 373,672 699,169 713,153<br />

17 Fringe Benefits 173,874 220,039 245,987 125,051 253,102 258,164<br />

18 <strong>Student</strong> Aid 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

19 Consultant/Purchased Person 7,440 0 7,500 0 15,000 15,000<br />

Supplies, Serv. & Misc. Exp. 109,840 76,177 61,200 28,996 63,800 63,800<br />

21 Materials for Resale 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

22 Equipment & Other Capital Assets 0 10,508 3,000 0 3,000 3,000<br />

23 Non-Capital Equipment < $2,500 19,595 10,628 8,000 11,493 8,000 8,000<br />

24 Rents & Leases 29,691 28,919 32,300 13,976 33,300 34,300<br />

Repairs, Maintenance & Supplies 4,460 4,376 3,800 1,416 3,800 3,800<br />

26 Utilities 131 1,148 1,259 386 1,199 1,230<br />

27 ICR/Subcontracts & Participants 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

28 Enterprise Assessment 7,594 8,453 8,859 4,671 8,740 8,914<br />

29 Budgeted Reserves 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

Recurring FY Compact Allocation 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

31 Expenditures by Object Class Total 960,151 1,036,491 1,080,654 559,661 1,089,110 1,109,361<br />

32 Utilities 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

33 Facilities 3,404 3,396 3,372 0 3,296 3,382<br />

34 Warehouses 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

Debt 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

36 Leases 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

37 Libraries 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

38 Research Administration 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

39 Information Technology 8,802 9,588 12,108 0 11,847 12,155<br />

<strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

41 General Purpose Classrooms 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

42 Administrative <strong>Service</strong> Units 40,949 36,411 38,529 0 39,532 40,560<br />

43 Cost Allocation Charges Total 53,155 49,395 54,009 0 54,675 56,097<br />

44 Total Operating Expenditures 1,013,306 1,085,886 1,134,663 559,661 1,143,785 1,165,458<br />

Net Transfers In 234,399 225,075 21,762 0 69,647 93,902<br />

46 Net Transfers Out 245,733 238,410 36,762 25 85,647 111,902<br />

47 Total Net Transfers -11,334 -13,335 -15,000 -25 -16,000 -18,000<br />

48 Operations and Maintenance Allocation 36,325 34,453 33,506 33,506 33,506 33,506<br />

49<br />

FY Compact Allocation Recurring<br />

Transfer 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

Net NonOperating Revenues 24,991 21,118 18,506 33,481 17,506 15,506<br />

51 Net Surplus (Deficit) 96,675 94,101 -33,157 533,709 -47,279 -70,952<br />

52 Non-<strong>Student</strong> Loan Receivables 1,731 1,462 0 0 0 0<br />

53 Prepaid Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

54 Inventory 0 -106 0 0 0 0<br />

Accrued Liabilities 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

56 Deferred Revenue 35,275 2,558 0 -37,833 0 0<br />

57 Capital Leases 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

58 Other Expenses 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

59 Prior Year Carryforward 181,867 280,273 153,611 378,289 293,289 246,010<br />

Ending Balance 315,548 378,288 120,454 874,165 246,010 175,058<br />

61 % of Total Expenditures 31 35 11 2 0 0<br />

62 Total Sponsored Expenditures 0 0 0 0 0 0<br />

Page 18 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Fiscal Page Notes*<br />

Line 7: Other Unrestricted Sales (misc): This $3,000 figure represents the estimated co-pays<br />

that student clients pay for certain services as determined by the <strong>USLS</strong> student board during the<br />

fiscal year. Current students are facing severe financial hardships. Tuition and other costs<br />

continue to escalate at an alarming rate. <strong>Student</strong>s have indicated that they may elect not to seek<br />

service if a co-pay is required. <strong>USLS</strong> believes that providing assistance to the students in need<br />

outweighs the minimal co-pay received and has found it appropriate to waive the co-pay in<br />

numerous instances. In addition, this amount is less than in previous years due to fewer contested<br />

dissolution cases which were a source of higher co-pays.<br />

Line 16: Expenditures/Salaries: Due to the perilous financial times that the students and the<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota finds themselves in, <strong>USLS</strong> is not requesting any increase in P&A salary<br />

for FY11-FY12. Any increase to meet the contractual responsibility for employees under<br />

university contracts for civil service and/or union requirements will be taken out of reserves.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> attorneys receive far less than other attorneys in the public sector or those employed at the<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota. As illustrated in Appendix A and Exhibit A attached, and according to<br />

the Robert Half Survey of United States Attorneys (the AFFILIATES) nation’s leading staffing<br />

service for attorneys, they indicate that attorneys with similar work and years of experience<br />

receive a substantially greater income than <strong>USLS</strong> attorneys. As stated above, these are difficult<br />

economic times and <strong>USLS</strong> recognizes the fear and harsh financial impact students will face as a<br />

result of the economic downturn. As such, <strong>USLS</strong> will not be asking or seeking any salary<br />

increase for its professional staff in the 2011-2012 fiscal year.<br />

It is anticipated that the <strong>University</strong> will recommend for its professional staff a 2% increase for<br />

FY12-FY13. <strong>USLS</strong> will implement that raise if authorized by the <strong>University</strong>. <strong>USLS</strong> will use<br />

reserves to fund any such raise. Any increase for civil service and union employees is part of the<br />

bargaining units to which <strong>USLS</strong> has no control over. <strong>USLS</strong> will not seek any new funds to cover<br />

any such salary or mandated fringe increases, but will utilize reserves to fund any such increases.<br />

Line 17: Fringe Benefits: These figures are established and mandated by the <strong>University</strong> through<br />

the P&A and civil service bargaining unit.<br />

The rate and percentage increase of fringe benefits has been very high. <strong>USLS</strong> for FY 2011-2012<br />

and FY 2012-2013 will use reserves to meet those expenses.<br />

Line 19: Consultant/Purchased Person: <strong>USLS</strong> has purchased and begun implication of<br />

“Amicus Attorney”, an electronic case file management program. A consultant is necessary to<br />

complete the installation and to train personnel on the use of the product. In addition, <strong>USLS</strong> will<br />

incur a cost of a temporary employee to transfer old data to the new system.<br />

Page 19 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Line 23: Non Capital Equipment: This line item fluctuates year to year. <strong>USLS</strong> recently<br />

purchased a new file management system “Amicus Attorney” to increase productivity, minimize<br />

costs and paper and provide better service to those we serve. <strong>USLS</strong> may need to update<br />

technical and computer equipment to meet <strong>University</strong> OIT requirements. <strong>USLS</strong> will also be<br />

replacing some furniture, by example, some of the office chairs are twenty years old.<br />

Line 24: Rents & Leases: Twin Cities Union is <strong>USLS</strong>' landlord and we anticipate that rent for<br />

2011-2012 will increase to approximately $33,000.00 and 2012-2013 to $34,300.00.<br />

Line 25: Repairs, Maintenance and Supplies: (Covers the cost of repairs on copier, printer and<br />

computer equipment): <strong>USLS</strong> replaced its dictation equipment with a “digital” system. We also<br />

replaced the copier, printer and some of its older computers so as to be able to accommodate the<br />

electronic case management software system and <strong>University</strong> security benchmarks and other<br />

technological prerequisites. This line represents the necessary maintenance and repairs on that<br />

equipment. If any additional equipment is purchased over the next two fiscal years those costs<br />

and expenses will be taken from reserves.<br />

Lines 32-43: Cost Allocations Charges: The <strong>University</strong> has indicated there will be no increase<br />

in FY2011-2012 in the cost allocation pool. That cost allocation pool will increase in FY12-13<br />

by an estimated 2.6%. Any increase will once again be taken from reserves. On paper <strong>USLS</strong> will<br />

have a projected ending balance on June 30, 2011 of $293.289. Recognizing this amount is<br />

substantial <strong>USLS</strong> has agreed that any of the salary or fringe benefit increases for FY2011-12 and<br />

FY2012-13, any increase in rents and leases for that period will be taken from its operating<br />

reserves so as not to ask for or seek any increase in fees over the next two years. The current cost<br />

allocation charges that <strong>USLS</strong> will be responsible for may also increase. The exact amount is<br />

unknown. Any such increase for FY 2011-12 and FY 2012-13 will be taken from reserves<br />

eliminating the need to seek any increase to cover such cost over the next two-year period.<br />

Line 60: Net assets at end of year (Reserves): The “prior year carry forward” continues to<br />

exceed the recommended amount. These reserves increased dramatically due to the fact that for<br />

two out of the past three years <strong>USLS</strong> had been vastly understaffed. Those positions have now<br />

been filled with full-time employees.<br />

The forecast carry-forward for 2011 is approximately $293,000. With current projections <strong>USLS</strong><br />

will utilize reserves to supplement the projected short-fall in their budget for FY 2011-12 leaving<br />

an ending balance of approximately $246,000 in June of 2012. Again relying on the projections<br />

provided, <strong>USLS</strong> will once again use reserves to offset the projected short-fall that exists for<br />

FY2012-13 leaving a carry forward in June of 2013, at the end of this biennium of $175,000.<br />

This amount is within the recommended guidelines established by the <strong>University</strong> and the fees<br />

committee.<br />

Page 20 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Reserve Accounts<br />

The administrative unit reserve accounts must be listed and described. Include the following:<br />

§ the name of the account(s)<br />

§ current amount in the account(s)<br />

§ purpose of the account(s)<br />

§ additional information the committee may find helpful<br />

Year<br />

Operations & Equipment<br />

Reserves<br />

FY09 $181,867<br />

FY10 $280,273<br />

FY11 $293,289<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> continues to utilize reserves to increase productivity and provide greater service to the<br />

students we serve, and minimize requests for additional funding from students.. Set forth below<br />

are the expenditures authorized by the student board in 10-11.<br />

Expenditures 11-12. The <strong>USLS</strong> <strong>Student</strong> Board has authorized $15,000 to be taken from<br />

Operating Reserves to be utilized for the hiring of both a consultant and part-time individual to<br />

train on the use of new software, as well as import and transfer old data to the new program.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> student board has also authorized the following sums to be taken from operating reserves<br />

to be utilized for the purchase and replacement of outdated equipment. <strong>USLS</strong> may purchase and<br />

replace outdated computers at a cost of $6,000.00. <strong>USLS</strong> will also purchase and replace some<br />

office furniture so that it meets prescribed recommendations of Boynton Health <strong>Service</strong>. <strong>USLS</strong><br />

will also purchase “Voice Recognition” software to be used with the digital dictation equipment<br />

previously purchased for added document creation efficiency.<br />

Financial Footnotes<br />

Note and explain any important budgetary information that is not found on the fiscal page of this request. Elaborate<br />

on the administrative unit’s past, present, and future financial status, taking this opportunity to narrate any line items<br />

that may not be self-explanatory. Reference the particular line item being discussed.<br />

The following items from the fiscal page require an explanation within these footnotes:<br />

Page 21 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

§ any carry-forward from the previous year<br />

§ significant changes that cannot be properly explained on the fiscal page<br />

§ any sweeping salary and fringe benefit increases<br />

Past, Present, and Future Financial Status<br />

Because salary and fringe benefits comprise 89% of the <strong>USLS</strong> budget, the major financial issue<br />

facing <strong>USLS</strong> has always been, and continues to be the funding for salary and fringe benefits of<br />

the staff. <strong>USLS</strong> is staffed by committed professionals providing high quality legal services to<br />

meet students' needs. The <strong>USLS</strong> staff consists of six attorney positions (director and five staff<br />

attorneys), two full time legal assistants, an office manager/paralegal, a receptionist (Office<br />

Specialist), one principal administrative specialist, one administrative specialist/legal program<br />

associate and two part-time student law clerks. <strong>USLS</strong> employees fall into three classifications;<br />

Professional and Administrative (P&A), Civil <strong>Service</strong>, and Bargaining Unit (AFSCME).<br />

For biennium, FY11-12, and FY12-13, any salary and fringe increases for <strong>USLS</strong> staff will be<br />

taken from reserves. Further any additional monies necessary to cover the cost of inflation and<br />

office overhead for FY11-12 and FY12-13 will be taken from reserves so as not to in any way<br />

further burden students during these financially difficult times. The modest 2% increase for<br />

FY12-13 which is anticipated to be recommended as salary increases for professional staff,<br />

together with any additional increases in salary for civil service or bargaining unit employees and<br />

the unknown and anticipated fringe increases will be absorbed and taken from reserves. As such,<br />

<strong>USLS</strong>, at this time, is not asking for any additional increase in fees.<br />

Carry Forward<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> will carry forward approximately $293,000 in FY11-12.<br />

Page 22 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

<strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

State the amount of each fees request and explain the need behind each request. The fees committee will be particularly<br />

interested in the reasoning behind a fee increase.<br />

Provide explanatory narrative if necessary. While the initial narrative page should describe the administrative unit, this<br />

section should center on the request itself. Use as much space as needed.<br />

Name of Fee: <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s Fee FY 2011/2012 & FY 2012/2013<br />

Current Fee Allocation: $1,076,000<br />

Amount of <strong>Fees</strong> Approved<br />

And Allocated: $1,076,000 for FY 10-11<br />

Amount of <strong>Fees</strong> Request: $1,076,000 for FY11-12<br />

Amount of <strong>Fees</strong> Request: $1,076,000 for FY12-13 *<br />

*Represents the 2% increase currently under consideration to be taken from reserves.<br />

See discussion on need and basis for increase under Financial Footnotes and Appendix A, page<br />

26.<br />

Page 23 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Description of Impact at a 10 Percent Reduction in <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

Indicate the impact on the administrative unit should this request be reduced by 10 percent. Consider the programs or<br />

services that would be altered, the implications on expenditure and revenue, and the management steps that would be<br />

taken. This should be done for each fee requested.<br />

As stated above, 89% of the <strong>USLS</strong> budget is used to cover salary and fringe benefits of <strong>USLS</strong><br />

staff. A 10% cut would result in eliminating virtually all of the operation budget used to cover<br />

basic essentials such as rent, office supplies, postage, and telephone service. The effect of a<br />

decrease in funding would mandate a cut in staff as the items set forth above are necessary and<br />

mandatory and are currently kept at a bare minimal level. A cut in <strong>USLS</strong> staff would result in an<br />

inability to meet and maintain current demand for services.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong>, as stated previously, was established by students and is student centered. We are<br />

orientated and focus our entire attention to the students. We provide leadership opportunities<br />

through our student board. We work with other units, departments and organizations,<br />

specifically student organizations, in providing services and programs that advance student<br />

success, inspire students to make life long contributions to society and enrich the <strong>University</strong> of<br />

Minnesota and the community as a whole. A 10% reduction in fees request would dramatically<br />

impact these programs. Among some of the programs that may need to be eliminated would be<br />

the popular “Careers in Law Forum” which enables students to not only learn about law school<br />

options and opportunities, but career possibilities, part-time employment, internships and<br />

volunteer opportunities that enhance and increase students’ options and possible successes.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> in FY2011-2012 will conduct approximately sixty-five educational programs and events.<br />

These programs and events are generally held after hours (landlord/tenant workshops generally<br />

begin at 9:00) p.m. or on the weekends. A fee reduction, which will result in the loss of staff,<br />

would mean that <strong>USLS</strong> would be unable to continue the current level of programming and<br />

services necessary to meet the needs of students.<br />

Page 24 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Programmatic Breakdown<br />

As determined by administrative unit.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> Case Type Summary FY 2009-10<br />

Number of intakes: 1425<br />

Number of files closed: 1195<br />

Case types as percentage of total cases opened for FY 09-10<br />

Landlord/tenant = 23 %<br />

2009-10: 26%<br />

Unlawful detainer<br />

Repairs<br />

Damage deposit<br />

Lease review<br />

Co-tenant dispute<br />

Sublease<br />

Terminate tenancy<br />

Other<br />

Consumer = 10%<br />

2009-10: 8%<br />

Auto purchase/repair<br />

Consumer debt<br />

Insurance<br />

Property loss<br />

Defective product/service<br />

Contract dispute<br />

Personal loan<br />

<strong>Student</strong> loan<br />

Auto accident<br />

Other<br />

Criminal = 14%<br />

2009-10: 14%<br />

Petty misdemeanor<br />

Misdemeanor<br />

Gross misdemeanor<br />

Expungement<br />

DWI<br />

Implied consent<br />

Minor consumption<br />

Other<br />

Employment = 1%<br />

2009-10: 1%<br />

Employment grievance<br />

Discrimination<br />

Other<br />

Family = 3%<br />

2009-10: 4%<br />

Dissolution<br />

Paternity<br />

Adoption<br />

Name change<br />

Post decree<br />

Domestic abuse<br />

<strong>Legal</strong> separation<br />

Other<br />

Administrative = 6%<br />

2009-10: 3%<br />

Social Security<br />

Unemployment<br />

Immigration<br />

Public assistance<br />

Other<br />

Miscellaneous = 35%<br />

2009-10: 40%<br />

Tort defense<br />

Conciliation court appeal<br />

Collect judgment<br />

Wills & trusts<br />

Extended notary<br />

Power of attorney 32% (40%)<br />

Living will<br />

Harassment<br />

Other<br />

Referral = 1%<br />

2009-10: 1%<br />

Conflict of interest<br />

Personal injury<br />

Out of metro area<br />

Business/fee-generating<br />

Other<br />

Page 25 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Appendix A<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> salaries are far below that of other attorneys in both the public and/or private<br />

sector. The fees committee over the past years, has been generous in trying to address<br />

this disparity in pay to try and bring <strong>USLS</strong> attorneys in line with others at the <strong>University</strong><br />

of Minnesota and those employed in the public sector such as the city attorneys, public<br />

defenders and legal aide attorneys. The attorneys and professional staff at <strong>USLS</strong><br />

recognize that to bring salaries in line with others in the public sector would place a<br />

tremendous financial burden upon the students that we serve.<br />

The following information relates to the salaries of public private sector attorneys.<br />

According to a 2010 survey from the AFFILIATES (Robert Half <strong>Legal</strong>) the nation’s<br />

leading staffing service specializing in attorneys with offices throughout the United<br />

States. The average starting salary for first year associates in small firms (up to ten<br />

attorneys) ranges from $55,250 to $82,250 per year. The <strong>USLS</strong> legal staff is comprised<br />

of six attorneys with experience ranging from 14 years of practice to 34 years of practice.<br />

The survey indicates average salaries for attorneys at small firms with 10-12 years of<br />

experience, ranges between $103,250 and $157,000. Salaries for first year attorneys in<br />

Minneapolis continue to rise. The following firms and salaries were listed in Minnesota<br />

Law and Politics: Schwegman Lundberg & Woessner, $121,000; Merchant & Gould,<br />

$115,000; Dorsey & Whitney, $120,000; Faegre & Benson,$120,000; Fish and<br />

Richardson; $130,000 to $160,000; Oppenheimer Wolff & Donnelly, $105,000;<br />

Lindquist & Vennum, $120,000; and Fredrickson & Byron, $120,000. The amounts<br />

these first year attorneys are receiving currently exceed the salary of any <strong>USLS</strong> attorney.<br />

According to an article in Minnesota Lawyer, following are the starting salaries for<br />

prosecutors in the metropolitan area, Hennepin County, $67,600; Ramsey County,<br />

$64,500; and the starting pay at the Attorney General's Office for the State of Minnesota<br />

is $72,000. These attorneys can reach a top end scale in excess of $110,000 per year in<br />

salary. Once again far in excess of what any attorney at <strong>USLS</strong> is paid.<br />

As stated, above the staff at <strong>USLS</strong> appreciates the support, funding and backing it has<br />

consistently received from the students and fees committee at the <strong>University</strong> of<br />

Minnesota. We remain committed to providing high quality legal services, programs and<br />

opportunities to the students we serve. We look forward to working with the fees<br />

committee in addressing the needs of the students at the <strong>University</strong>.<br />

Page 26 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

EXHIBIT A<br />

RAMSEY COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER SALARY RANGE<br />

Fiscal Year 2010<br />

STEP<br />

SALARY RANGE<br />

1 0-5 Years $49,656-$75,588<br />

2 5-10 Years $62,112-$90,636<br />

3 10-15 Years $76,032-$111,012<br />

4 15-20 Years $82,308-$120,180<br />

5 20 plus years $83,148-$121,368<br />

HENNEPIN COUNTY PUBLIC DEFENDER SALARY RANGE<br />

Fiscal Year 2010<br />

STEP<br />

SALARY RANGE<br />

1 0-5 Years $49,608-$78,360<br />

2 5-10 Years $57,012-$106,488<br />

3 10 plus years $74,124-$113,628<br />

Each step classification is based on years of service.<br />

<strong>USLS</strong> Attorneys have between 8 and 34 years of experience.<br />

The average salary of <strong>USLS</strong> attorneys with 8-15 years of experience is $57,815<br />

The average salary of <strong>USLS</strong> attorneys with over 20 years of experience is $66,156<br />

Page 27 of 28


2011-12/2012-13 Administrative Unit <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Service</strong>s <strong>Fees</strong> Request<br />

<strong>University</strong> of Minnesota – Twin Cities<br />

<strong>University</strong> <strong>Student</strong> <strong>Legal</strong> <strong>Service</strong> (<strong>USLS</strong>)<br />

Page 28 of 28

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