II. What We Would Like to Understand Better

Hey Jamila - in my piece I was thinking of the "right people" as decision makers (Governors, state assemblies, members of Congress). I think we just saw another example of this kind of concerted action in the public interest today, when the Washington Post announced that Virginia Governor Tim Kaine and the Speaker of the House came to a deal to get a smoking ban passed through the state House of Representatives. In Virginia of all places!

I think you're idea about a service requirement would be a great way to get law students interested in these types of issues (for example, working on a death penalty appeal, or even dealing with smoker's medical claims). I think then, they will be more likely to use the law in socially conscious ways.

-- HelenMayer - 05 Feb 2009