Veterans Law Practicum

Honoring our Veterans All Year Long

Each year, November 11 marks Veterans Day, an opportunity to recognize the contributions of our military service men and women, and honor the sacrifices they have made along the way. 

Now in its second year, students participating in the Law School’s Veterans Law Practicum are living this commitment, not just one day, but 365 days a year. 


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Our Promise

The Veterans Law Practicum at Cornell Law School provides comprehensive legal support to veterans in upstate New York. Launched in the fall of 2023, the practicum aims to bridge the significant gap in legal services available to veterans, particularly in areas such as benefits appeals, discharge upgrades, and housing-related issues. 

Under the supervision of a full-time staff attorney and adjunct professors, law students offer legal information, advice, and representation to veterans, ensuring they receive the benefits and support they deserve.

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Real Lives, Real Aide, Real Impact

Building on the momentum of the practicum’s launch in 2023, this year’s practicum attracted a record 20 applicants! This fall, 10 of those students are already hard at work , collaborating with veterans throughout our local and regional community to address dire issues like veteran homelessness and housing insecurity, as supported by a new VA grant. 

To date, students have gained real hands-on experience working on cases related to:

  • Service-connected disability compensation
  • Discharge upgrades
  • Securing Benefits that improve economic security and overall well being 

Last year our practicum conducted 120 intakes, opened 67 cases, and helped 58 veterans but we can do even more!

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Every Gift Counts 

Your gift today would direct funds to areas that would:

  • Scale our clinic to include more students and impact more veterans 
  • Fund more staff attorneys and summer fellows to extend our impact all year long  
  • Supplement travel outside of Ithaca to serve even more veterans 

Every gift impacts a life – both of our student learners, and the veterans we owe so much to. 

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FAQ

Is my contribution tax-deductible?                                                                       

Yes! All gifts received through this platform are considered donations to Cornell University and are thus tax-deductible. Donors will receive a tax receipt following gift processing.                                                                                         

Who should I contact with questions about my contribution?                                                                     

Email cfund@cornell.edu