Fair Housing Clinic (FHC)

Who can apply? Rising 2Ls and 3Ls
Prerequisite Course(s): None
Is the program year-long or semester-long? Year-long  
How many credits? 12, upon completion of full year-long course

All students enrolled in the Fair Housing Clinic will have the opportunity to assist real clients with legal problems related to their housing. Under the supervision of the Supervising Attorney, students take on full responsibility for researching legal issues, counseling clients, negotiating with opposing parties, participating in mediations, and, when appropriate, appearing in court or before administrative tribunals. Students may also have the opportunity to pursue policy changes, issue public comments on proposed regulations, and otherwise advocate for housing justice.

The Fair Housing Clinic allows students the opportunity to study various aspects of both public and private housing throughout the United States, and places particular emphasis on the Fair Housing Act of 1968, and D.C. laws and regulations related to discrimination, housing conditions, and landlord-tenant issues. In addition to serving as Student Attorneys, Fair Housing Clinic students may be trained as “Fair Housing Testers,” allowing them to identify and investigate discriminatory housing practices, which may ultimately form the basis for a fair housing lawsuit. Students also engage in a variety of community education and outreach events.