22 Jan 2013
Staff Writer
Anna Frosch
Intern
Bright pamphlets in an array of colors neatly line the stands in front of the Student Legal Services center. These papers represent a limited amount of the multitude of services offered at the SLS. These services are completely free for students.
The center, in Union suite 324, is dedicated to helping students with most legal issues. Two licensed attorneys on staff, Kathryn McCauley and Susan A. Fisher, make sure each student receives personalized attention. These attorneys provide advice and guidance through each step of a case.
“The idea of helping college students was very appealing to me,” McCauley said. “I didn’t choose the law for financial gain. I just wanted to enjoy my work.”
There are some issues that the office cannot handle such as criminal matters, contested family law issues, student vs. student cases and student vs. university cases.
However, the staff members will look over a case and provide referrals as well as general advice.
“We help students navigate the legal systems so they don’t have to worry so much about whatever issue they’re facing,” said Erin Langlotz, a desk clerk and general studies senior. “They can get back to focusing on what they’re here for: their academics.”
Terence Yee, a counseling graduate student and desk clerk at the center, said the most common types of issues students come to resolve are landlord-tenant disputes, with automotive accidents a close second.
The attorney-client confidentially policy extends to all members of the office.
“We want students to feel secure when seeking our help,” Yee said.
Students seeking legal services can make an appointment or come by during the office’s walk-in hours on Wednesdays from 1:30–3:30 p.m., and on Thursdays from 10 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Beforehand, students should fill out the application for student legal services form as well as the welcome letter, both which can be found on the office’s webpage, studentlegal.unt.edu.
“I just love it when I can help out fellow students in their time of need,” Yee said. “This job is its own reward.”
