Welcome to the NY LEO Program
The New York State Judicial Institute is pleased to sponsor the New York Legal Education Opportunity Program (NY LEO).
The New York Legal Education Opportunity Program is designed to prepare students entering law school with the tools needed for academic success in law school. Through an intense five-week summer program, NY LEO assists college graduates in acquiring the fundamental and practical skills necessary to succeed in law school. The NY LEO Program is administered by the Honorable Kathie E. Davidson, Dean of the New York State Judicial Institute and Salihah R. Denman, J.D., LL.M., Director of NY LEO.
Participating in the Program
All classes and activities are administered and implemented at the New York State Judicial Institute. Students live on the Judicial Institute's campus and participate in the program full-time. Experienced law professors provide instruction in first-year law school core courses as well as in legal research, writing and analysis. As part of the program, NY LEO Fellows will also have the opportunity to visit courts in session and meet with members of the judiciary and other legal professionals.
Since 2007, the NY LEO Program has assisted college graduates that are from groups traditionally underrepresented in the law in acquiring the fundamental and practical skills necessary to succeed in law school. The program is available to qualified candidates who are residents of New York State.
Eligibility
To be eligible to participate, a student must:
- Be a New York State resident or plan to attend a law school located in New York.
- Receive a 4-year college degree by the beginning of the summer program.
- Have been accepted by or have an application pending at an accredited law school.
Financial Assistance
The New York LEO Program is provided free of charge to the participants. Covered expenses include courses, course materials, dormitory room, meal plan, access to libraries and computer facilities, and more.
Apply to the NY LEO Program
