This podcast will focus on the opportunities and challenges for lawyers interested in practicing in rural settings. Led by Professor Hannah Haksgaard of University of South Dakota Law, an expert in rural legal practice, this session will delve into her research on the rural lawyer shortage and its implications for small-town America and access to justice. Professor Haksgaard will discuss the unique role rural lawyers play in serving these communities, with a focus on Project Rural Practice in South Dakota, which offers a successful model for attracting new lawyers to rural areas. The program will also explore the innovative South Dakota Rural Attorney Recruitment Program and how incentive programs for rural lawyers, inspired by those for rural medical professionals, can provide valuable support. Through real-world examples, this program will highlight strategies for lawyers who want to make a meaningful impact in rural communities while growing their legal careers.
You will learn:
- Understand the Opportunities in Rural Legal Practice: Gain insight into the unique aspects of rural law practice, including its challenges and rewards, and the critical role it plays in providing access to justice in small communities.
- Explore Incentive Programs for Rural Lawyers: Learn about the South Dakota Rural Attorney Recruitment Program and other incentive strategies that can help lawyers establish and grow their practice in rural areas
- Discover the Interconnection Between Rural Economic Development and Legal Practice: Explore how rural legal practice can contribute to local economic development and how lawyers can be key drivers in sustaining and revitalizing small-town communities.
