The seminar explores legal problems in connection with the administration of government welfare programs,

The seminar explores legal problems in connection with the administration of government welfare programs, particularly programs providing cash benefits (such as Social Security) and medical benefits (such as Medicare and Medicaid). Role of litigation and other means of advocacy; techniques of effective advocacy; professional responsibility of the public interest lawyer. Students participate in exercises, drawn from cases being handled by the Bet Tzedek Legal Services Clinic, in the technique of civil litigation including interviewing and counseling, drafting of pleadings, handling pretrial discovery such as depositions and interrogatories, pretrial motion practice, handling trials and hearings, and negotiating appropriate relief. Open only to students in the Bet Tzedek Clinic or the Bet Tzedek Community Services Clinic.