The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis is a prestigious, top-tier law school that has achieved national and international recognition. Founded in 1962, the school is named after its founding dean, Cecil C Humphreys. It offers Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), and Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) degrees. The American Bar Association and a member of the Association of American Law Schools accredit it. The Tennessee Board of Legal Education also approves its educational curriculum.

History

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis was established in 1962 as an accredited full-time law program to serve the Mid-South. The school was named in honor of Dr. Cecil C. Humphreys, President of Memphis State University, an educator of considerable repute who worked diligently with the state legislature and the ABA to bring the law school into existence. Former Dean Don Polden and then Dean James Smoot set in motion a much-needed move from its building on the University's main campus in East Memphis to a former customs house on the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis.

The new law school facility is significantly larger than its predecessor, with more than 160,000 square feet of space. Before the law school took possession, part of the building had previously served as a central post office in downtown Memphis and was also used as the Federal Courthouse and U.S. Customs House. An interior redesign was conducted by Askew Nixon Ferguson Architects and Fleming Associates Architects, led by Bill Nixon, and a seismic retrofit was completed at $2 million.

Former Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen provided the law school with forty-one million dollars in state funds to aid the move. The move was announced on January 12, 2006, and classes began in January 2010. The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is now a vibrant part of the downtown Memphis landscape, offering some of the finest legal education in the Mid-South.

The mission of the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is to prepare students for practice and instill a commitment to excellence, ethics, and public service. Through rigorous legal training combined with practical experience, the faculty and staff of the law school aspire to provide students with a foundation for success in their chosen profession. The law school also seeks to enhance the legal profession by influencing public policy, supporting justice initiatives, promoting diversity within its student body and faculty, and providing access to high-quality legal services. With over fifty years of operation, the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is proud to continue its dedication to preparing tomorrow's leaders.

Admissions

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis is a unique and forward-looking institution offering excellent education at a great value. Their location in Memphis allows them to provide their students with opportunities to learn and grow in a city known for its innovation and determination. Their faculty are committed to helping their students succeed, and their diversity ensures that all their students have a voice. They are proud to be able to make a difference in Memphis, and they invite you to learn more about what they have to offer. If you're unsure about applying to law school or just beginning the application process, please take the time to read some of the excellent pre-law articles found here.

Statistics

Admissions Stats
Class of:	2020-2021	2021-2022
25th - 50th - 75th percentile LSAT	150 - 153 - 155	152 - 154 - 157
25th - 50th - 75th percentile GPA	3.02 - 3.33 - 3.62	3.03 - 3.36 - 3.65
Acceptance rate	47.1%	48.5%
Applications received	716	825
Acceptances	337	400
Matriculants	43	32

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is a great place to pursue a legal education. During the 2022 application cycle, 825 applications were received, and 400 were offered admission to the university's 1L class. Out of those, 114 accepted the offer and made up the 28.50% yield rate for the class.

The median LSAT score for the 1L class is 154, with the 25th percentile at 152 and the 75th percentile at 157. Similarly, the median GPA of the 1L class is 3.36, ranging from 3.03 to 3.65 in the 25th and 75th percentiles, respectively.

The University of Memphis is an excellent choice for prospective law students seeking a prestigious and well-rounded education in the field. With an impressive application rate and yield rate, as well as median scores demonstrating its acceptance of academically driven students, it is worth considering.

Application Deadline and Fee

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is proud to open its application for the 2023 entering class. Individuals seeking to pursue a legal education are encouraged to apply before the priority deadline of March 15th, 2022, as applications opened on September 12th. There is no fee associated with applying.

Credential Assembly Service (CAS)

Applicants seeking admission to the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law's 2023 entering class must have a valid, current LSAT score taken between June 2018 and June 2023. This score should be included in an applicant's Credential Assembly Service (CAS) report. It is important to note that applicants must include a writing sample in the CAS report.

Once an applicant's application is complete, the admissions office will send a completion status email. Additionally, applicants can monitor their Memphis application status online through LSAC. The applicant must ensure that all necessary application components are received and up to date.

Personal Statement

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law allows prospective students to share their individual stories and experiences through their personal statements. Applicants can use this essay to express why they wish to pursue a career in law, along with any unique attributes or experiences that they believe would make them successful as law students.

In addition, applicants can discuss their desire to attend the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law specifically, including any family members who are university graduates. This can help shape and enhance an applicant's statement by demonstrating their particular interest in our school.

When writing this statement, it is essential to keep it under the 1,000-word limit. Furthermore, any information regarding low undergraduate grade point averages or LSAT scores should be addressed in an addendum separate from the personal statement to stay within the word limit. For personal statements and application essays, check out the TLS Guide to Personal Statements.

Admonitory Action Explanation

Applicants who answer "yes" to any of the questions in the Admonitory Action section of the university's application must provide an additional document that should include details about when and where the event occurred. Additionally, they must explain what happened. Including relevant court documents related to the issue may be beneficial. The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law staff will review this information and evaluate it with the applicant's other materials before making an admission decision. Applicants should be honest and forthcoming in this section, as failure to disclose any relevant information may result in withdrawing any offer for admission or subsequent dismissal from the law school.

Letters of Recommendation/Evaluations

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law encourages applicants to provide up to three letters of recommendation when applying. These can provide important insight into their potential for academic success within the institution. When available, reference letters should be submitted from professors or individuals who have recently taught or worked with the applicant in an academic setting.

Letters of recommendation should be sent directly to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) for inclusion in the CAS report, which is submitted along with the application. Applicants are not required to submit letters of recommendation, but if they choose to do so, they must ensure that their file is complete by March 15th for review to begin before the letters arrive. The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law encourages applicants to submit letters of recommendation to provide additional insight into their potential for success within the institution.

In conclusion, although not required, letters of recommendation can be helpful to supplement your application and increase its chances for a successful review. The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law encourages applicants to submit up to three letters of recommendation from professors or those who have recently taught in an academic setting, if possible, for review to be initiated before the letters' arrival.

TIP Statement

Individuals living in Tennessee and border counties who come from diverse backgrounds but have yet to be admitted through the traditional application process may have the opportunity to attend the Tennessee Institute for Pre-Law (TIP) Program. This alternative admission summer program is specifically tailored to individuals who are underrepresented or economically disadvantaged and demonstrate potential for a successful law career.

Decision Timeline (December – April)

Applicants who wish to apply to the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law can do so through LSAC. Once the application is submitted, applicants can check their status online. The school will notify applicants via email once their application is complete and ready for review. When a decision is rendered, applicants can check their online status to view it.

Final decisions are sent via email to the primary email address provided on the application and are typically made between December and April. Those admitted will receive instructions on submitting a $250 non-refundable seat deposit required for enrollment. This deadline and instructions on how to make the payment are included in the acceptance notification.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of your legal education at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is affordable compared to other state-assisted and private institutions. The University of Memphis Board of Trustees sets tuition and fees each year, which may change from yearly.

The costs of attendance estimate for the 2022-2023* academic year (Fall & Spring Semesters) are as follows:

	In-State	Out-of-State
Tuition & Fees	$19,498*	$24,536
Room & Board	$16,279	$16,279
Books/Supplies	$1,995	$1,995
Transportation	$3,817	$3,817
Personal	$4,049	$4,049
Total	$45,638	$50,676

The University of Memphis Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees for each academic year. Tuition and fees are based on full-time enrollment (30 credit hours). Part-time tuition and fees are billed by the credit hour. The law library fee is $20 per credit hour with no maximum (of 30 hours for entering students in the 2022-2023 academic year).

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis strives to make higher education as affordable and attainable as possible by offering incoming students financial aid and scholarship opportunities. To take advantage of these resources, all applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their FAFSA applications by March 15th, using University of Memphis code 003509.

Academics & Curriculum

Memphis Law offers both a full-time day program and a part-time day program. The part-time program is for a limited number of students whose other responsibilities make full-time study difficult. Our curriculum is designed to challenge students and prepare them for law practice. The curriculum reflects a commitment to traditional legal education with an emphasis on fundamental lawyering skills and core areas of knowledge.

Memphis Law operates on the semester system and requires 90 semester hours for the J.D. degree. A full-time student is required to enroll in at least 12 hours each semester. Students in the full-time program normally graduate in three years. Summer classes are sometimes available, and students can graduate after five semesters and two summer sessions of full-time study.

Part-time students will normally graduate in four or four-and-a-half years (including summer semesters). Graduation requirements for those students enrolled in the part-time program are the same as for those students enrolled in the full-time program. A part-time student must enroll in at least eight hours but may enroll in no more than 11 hours each semester.

The school offers clinics in child and family litigation, civil litigation, neighborhood preservation, housing adjudication, mediation, and elder law. Memphis Law offers students two optional dual-degree programs, one joint and a part-time program (a JD/MBA, JD/MA in political science, a JD/MPH, and a Fast Track MPH, respectively). For a limited number of students, externships are available with several community partners and governmental agencies.

For students who are not currently qualified for admission but show potential for successful study of law, Memphis offers the Tennessee Institute for Pre-Law (TIP). The TIP website states that it is open to Tennessee and border county residents "from diverse backgrounds and circumstances" and bills itself as an initiative to increase diversity in the classroom. The application asks whether the applicant is a graduate of a historically minority-oriented undergraduate institution, a foreign-born resident or a first-generation American, the first in his/her family to attend college, disabled, or economically disadvantaged. If accepted, the applicant will attend classes over the summer, free of charge and with a $1,000-$2,000 stipend. Successful completion of these classes guarantees the student a place in that fall's entering class.

Experimental Learning

At the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, students are fully committed to learning real-world law and preparing for successful legal careers. Through their Experiential Learning Curriculum, students receive hands-on instruction that goes above and beyond the American Bar Association's requirements. Each student must take at least one Legal Clinic or Externship Course and complete at least six credit hours in experiential coursework.

Their Experiential Learning Curriculum provides opportunities to gain practical experience through James S. Gilliland Legal Clinics, Externships, and Simulation Courses. Here, students learn by diving into supervised casework and engaging with real clients in the Memphis community. Their students have the opportunity to build their skills and knowledge by taking multiple clinics, externships, and simulations which will shape them into successful lawyers after graduation.

In-House Legal Clinics

At the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, the James S. Gilliland Legal Clinic offers students an invaluable opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in real-world legal cases. This academic program and professional office are supervised by licensed faculty members who provide guidance and direction so that student attorneys can learn the law through hands-on experience. Clinic attorneys can represent clients in various lawsuits and legal matters, taking primary responsibility for all aspects of their cases, allowing them to hone their skills and learn how to become successful lawyers. Each student must also attend a weekly seminar led by faculty members, helping them develop strategic, reflective, and self-aware skills. The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is committed to providing students with the best possible legal education through its in-house legal clinics. Students who participate in this program benefit from a unique learning experience and gain the tools they need to succeed in the world of law.

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is proud to offer such an invaluable opportunity for its students to learn and gain experience in real-world legal cases through the James S. Gilliland Legal Clinic. With competent faculty members guiding their progress, student attorneys can take advantage of this program to build the skills necessary for becoming successful lawyers. The University of Memphis is committed to helping its students reach their goals and become the best legal professionals.

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law James S. Gilliland Legal Clinic is an instrumental part of the law school's curriculum, offering students a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience and build the skills they need to succeed in the legal profession. Through its guidance and support, the clinic provides students with a valuable learning experience that will help shape their future in law. The University of Memphis is proud to offer such an invaluable program for its students and is committed to helping them become successful attorneys.

Externships

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law provides an incredible opportunity for upper-level law students to gain valuable experience in the field. Through their Externship Course, students have the chance to get hands-on training and develop essential research and writing skills that are necessary for a legal practice setting. The course offers a wide variety of placements in various locations across Memphis, including the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, U.S. District Court, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Tennessee Supreme Court, Tennessee Court of Appeals, Shelby County Circuit Court, U.S. Attorney's Office, and Federal Public Defender's Office just to name a few. Through the Externship Course, students can observe and learn from experienced professionals such as judges and attorneys while simultaneously participating in a faculty-led seminar that introduces the essential habits of being a reflective practitioner. This unique opportunity provides invaluable insight into the legal profession for students who wish to pursue a career in law.

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law offers an excellent avenue for aspiring legal professionals to gain real-world experience and build the necessary skill set to succeed in their field. The Externship Course provides an invaluable opportunity for upper-level law students to learn from experienced professionals and get hands-on training that cannot be replicated in the classroom setting. If you are interested in taking part in this unique educational experience, visit the University of Memphis School of Law website for more information on how to apply.

Simulation Courses

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis offers students a unique learning experience through their simulation courses. These courses allow students to sharpen their litigation, transactional, and dispute-resolution skills by allowing them to tackle theoretical problems and scenarios commonly encountered in the field of law. Students become better prepared to handle such situations when they face them in their professional careers.

In the simulation courses, students use a combination of legal research and practical application to solve complex legal problems, preparing them for success in both law school and beyond. They will be able to think critically, apply their knowledge to real-life issues, and gain essential skills that will help them succeed.

At the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, students can benefit from various simulation courses designed to prepare them for real-world legal situations. Through these courses, they learn how to apply their knowledge and skills effectively while challenging themselves in an environment similar to what they will eventually face in their professional lives. Simulation courses at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law offer students invaluable experience, giving them a chance to gain the practical skills needed to excel in law.

Employment Prospects & Bar Passage

Graduates from the esteemed Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis have a great chance at success as they embark on their legal careers. On average, those who enter the private sector right after graduation make around $75,000 annually, while those in the public sector earn an estimated $56,000 yearly.

The school has a strong track record for its graduates, with 53.3% finding employment in law firms and 8.0% becoming clerks for judges. Those who choose to pursue public interest make up the remaining 8.0%, while the majority of grads (79.2%) pass the bar exam on their first try. These promising statistics make the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law an attractive option for aspiring lawyers. With its strong academic foundation and successful alums, it is no surprise that more and more students are drawn to the school every year.

Quality of Life

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is in a city unlike any other - Memphis. With its place along the Mississippi River and its role as the largest city in the Mid-South, this location has become a hotbed for people from all different backgrounds to come together. This diversity has been woven into the city's fabric and helped create the unique atmosphere permeating Memphis.

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law has been at the heart of this cultural convergence for more than 100 years. Offering an excellent legal education, the school has developed a strong reputation in the area. It continues to strive for excellence with a cutting-edge curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong connections to the Memphis legal community.

At Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, you can go beyond just learning the law; you will gain a deep understanding of the city's culture and history that makes it so unique. From its historic sites to its vibrant music scene, authentic southern cooking to its lively nightlife, friendly people to its rich civil rights heritage, you will gain an intimate knowledge of what makes Memphis unique.

At Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, you can learn the law in a place like no other - Memphis. Here, you can experience the city's history and culture, receive an excellent legal education, and become part of a vibrant community of students, faculty, and professionals. The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is the perfect place to discover what makes this city unique and why it stands out from the rest.

Housing

The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law is a vibrant and bustling city with plenty of opportunities for students to explore and further their studies. Students can choose from housing options in downtown, Midtown, east Memphis, and mud island. These areas are great for shopping, dining, and entertainment. For more information on housing options, students can use the student housing survey or our Neighborhood and Communities page for an in-depth look at the neighborhoods and communities in Memphis. Downtown is a great corporate area with plenty of restaurants, night spots, office buildings, and high-rise apartments. At the same time, Midtown is known as the city's cultural center with remodeled historic homes. Cordova is a newer area with a mall and plenty of amenities. Germantown, Bartlett, and Collierville are three incorporated areas known for their excellent school systems and strong sense of community. We have also compiled a list of local businesses that participate in our annual admitted student open house and orientation, as well as a map of downtown hotels that may offer a University of Memphis School of Law discount. These resources are invaluable when it comes to finding the perfect place for you to live while studying here in Memphis. So take advantage of all the great housing options available and make your experience at The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law unforgettable!

Synopsis

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law may lack the prestige that some students seek in a law school, but its in-state tuition is extraordinarily cheap, and its location has become highly desirable. For the student who could obtain some extra information from the career services office, such as response rate to the employee survey and geographical location of those successfully employed, and who was satisfied with what s/he learned, the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law could be a very affordable and enjoyable way to obtain a legal education.

Contact Information

The University of Memphis
Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law
1 North Front Street
Memphis, TN 38103-2189
Phone: 901.678.2421
FAX: 901.678.5210
Email: lawadmissions@memphis.edu

Summary

Established	1962
Location	Memphis, TN
Dean	Katharine T. Schaffzin
2022 US News Ranking	142
LSAT Median Score	154
GPA Median Score	3.36
Bar Passage Rate	79% (2022)
Employment Rate	38% (2022)
Cost	In-State:$19,498 Out-of-State: $24,536
Average Debt	$86,511
Application Deadline	15 - Mar - 2023

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Reference

https://www.memphis.edu/law/
The University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law
Rank #142
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